Unless you have been living under a rock for the past 2 years, you've probably played or at least heard of The Sims for the PC. The Sims is a simple, yet extremely addictive game that has sold over 6 million copies worldwide. With that in mind, Maxis has now set their eyes on keeping the streak alive by bring its mega-popular simulation game to the PlayStation 2 this January.

Unlike most games that are transported from the PC to a console system, The Sims for the PlayStation 2 is not a direct port of the original PC game or its numerous expansion packs. In fact, the PS2 version of The Sims is far superior than its PC counterpart in more ways than one.

For example, The Sims for the PS2 will feature full 3D graphics; whereas the PC version was mostly made up of sprites. Everything from the furniture to the characters will be presented in nothing but good old polygons. Naturally, this means that character animations should look significantly more realistic.

In addition to a brand-new graphics engine, The Sims for the PS2 will include a mission-based minigame called the "Get-a-Life" mode. The main goal here is to complete various tasks (such as repairing a TV) that requires you to train your Sim by reading nonfiction books, exercising to build up physical strength, etc. Upon completing goals and tasks, you'll eventually move into larger houses (with more difficult assignments) until you finish this mode.

Of course, if you want to skip all the required missions and such found in the "Get-a-Life" mode, you can play the Classic mode. In this mode, you're free to do whatever you want. There isn't really a goal here except to earn a decent income to purchase new items for your house and to stay healthy.

Also included with The Sims is a split screen two-player mode not found in the original PC game. In this mode, you and a friend can tackle the "Get-a-Life" mode or the Classic mode. The two player portion of the "Get-a-Life" mode is a race against the clock to get a specific task done. The one who finishes the assignment or earns the most points first wins. In the Classic mode, both of you simply work together in managing a household. Or you can be an ass and totally mess with your partner (by stealing his girlfriend/wife, etc). It's up to you.

Another thing worth mentioning is that all the items (lamps, tables, desks, TVs, sofas, beds, etc.) from the original Sims game and the Livin' Large and House Party expansion packs will make it into the PS2 version. On top of that, there will be 14 or so brand-new items made just for the PS2 game.

Lastly, Maxis has promised that The Sims will play just fine with a Dual Shock 2, so no need to worry about lackluster controls. Unfortunately, it appears EA is purposely delaying the release of The Sims in order to focus more on promoting their other games this Holiday Season. The Sims might be pushed back into January, but it should be well worth the wait.