"The Sims finally makes it to the handheld platform, and it doesn't disappoint."

Just about every game player has heard of the Sims. It was the first 'god' simulator. You are God, if you like, and you lead people, called Sims, through their everyday. Making food, getting a job, making a family... even going to the loo was all under your control. You could buy items and create your very own dream holiday villa. And it's finally jumped the handheld platform in the shape of The Sims Bustin' Out.

If you have ever played the Sims before, you'll realise almost instantly that Bustin' Out is totally different. Unlike the Sims, there is a storyline, goals, and just one character, you, that you can control. The other different people in the game are other ordinary people with ordinary traits etc. You came become friends, fall in love, or even become deadly enemies. Throughout the game, you move houses to bigger, more spacious dwellings. Starting from the tiny one room barn, you move to a clock tower, a family villa and finally a summer mansion, with 3 bedrooms and your own swimming pool.

The Graphics really excel on the GBA. The furniture is very detailed, the houses are great, and all the different outside areas really are amazing. It's quite remarkable that a GBA can perform to the high standards of these graphics. The whole thing is made even better if you own a GBA SP (like me). The backlit screen makes good graphics even better.

The Gameplay is the main feature of Bustin' Out. With the user-friendly talking menu, the easy 'put in pocket' transport system, the variation of the shops and cafes, the incredibly addictive and supremely rewarding mini-games (Jam Session will have you hooked for months!) and the cool goals, ultimately The Sims Bustin' Out has great gameplay and it will really hook you till the end.

The Sound in The Sims Bustin' Out is, admittedly, full of good songs. But unfortunately, the constant music does get very, very annoying. However, each score is very good, but be preparing to turn the GBA down, or risk migraines.

The value and replayability of The Sims Bustin' Out is very high also. Each time you play through the time, the only thing the same will be the goals. You'll have different friends, different furniture, a different appearance, different skill points... It really is the equivalent of a brand-new game. In this factor, Bustin' Out certainly gets full marks in the Value perspective.

All in all, The Sims Bustin' Out is, in my opinion, a more satisfying experience than it's console big brothers. It's a hidden gem and most certainly will not disappoint you. In short, get it in now!

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 08/01/05