We were lucky enough to have Jenna Chalmers, a Designer from Maxis, take some time out of her busy day to answer our questions about the upcoming The Sims expansion, The Sims Unleashed.  Not only did we get a sneak peek at some of the game's features, Jenna also gave us some gameplay techniques so that you can hit the ground running as soon start playing The Sims Unleashed.

GT: Will there be different sizes and breeds of dogs available?

JC: Unleashed offers over a dozen breeds of dogs and over a dozen breeds of cats! The breeds are unique in shape and color, but are similar in size.

GT: Will different pets have different ‘personalities’ or a set of traits like their Sim owners?

JC: Pets have their own unique personality traits: Quiet, Friendly, Playful, Smart, and Loyal

GT: Will the pets have ‘needs’ that their owners will have to tend to?

JC: Pets have needs just like their owners do, from Hunger to Bladder to Social.. Players will need to provide plenty of love, care, and other amenities if they are to keep their pets happy.

GT: How often do pets need to be fed and what happens if you neglect to do so?

JC: The food bowl holds several servings, so you probably won’t have to make it a daily chore, although it depends on how many pets you have in the family. Unfed pets will suffer the same fate as would other unfed family members, and depart for that happy hunting ground in the sky.

GT: Will unhappy pets run away from home?

JC: Yes, unhappy pets may leave and try to find the care they need from another family.

GT: Will there be any pet services available to help you care for your pets?

JC: You will find the Pet Trainer at the Pet Adoption Center. He has useful information about pet care and will be happy to help you train them for a fee.

Pet behaviors »