The Sims

Picture a reality-TV show where you tell everyone what to do, and you have the basic premise behind The Sims. From an overhead perspective that lets you monitor all the goings-on in a simulated household, you shepherd your charges though their daily lives–from going to the bathroom to taking out the trash. You’re responsible for making sure everyone’s physical and emotional needs are met, but since Sims speak only gibberish, you have to watch for nonverbal cues such as gestures and groans. If you’re not careful, your Sim’s life can turn nasty in short order; do things right, and you may soon have another Sim to care for.