Sim-Wolf

The Sims 3 Store has been updated recently with two new sets and four new hairstyles.

Modern Minimalist

The Stäncké Philosophy: 1. Furniture need not have purpose to nourish the soul. 2. Good design is above the laws of man. 3. Geometry is emotion.

13 items for 1,350 SimPoints

The Complete Castle by Castle Kits, Inc.

Castle Kits Inc. knows that a Sim's home is their castle. Now any Sim can build an actual castle for their home. The Lord and Lady can live happily in the castle of their dreams surrounded by regal towers, flagged rooftops, and of course, a variety impenetrable walls.

19 items for 700 SimPoints.

All Banged Up (100 SimPoints)

A cute hairstyle with short hair and bangs.

Princess Tiara (100 SimPoints)

This noble hairstyle is topped with a tiara that will make you look majestic.

New Years Hat for Him (Free)

Celebrate the New Year festivities with this booming hat.

New Years Hat for Her (Free)

Celebrate the New Year festivities with this booming hat.

It appears what will be known as "The Sims 3 High End Loft Stuff" will be called "The Sims 3 Design & High Tech Stuff" in the UK. I'm not sure why the name difference is appropriate as it is most likely to cause confusion for players. A boxshot of Design & High Tech Stuff has been released. However, personally from the cover, I think the content of this Stuff Pack looks quite appealing.

Transform your Sims’ homes into sleek, edgy lofts with The Sims 3 Design & High-Tech Stuff. With a host of new items for the most lived-in rooms in your Sims’ homes, including slick gadgets for your high-tech home office, a next-gen gaming system for the killer game room, modern furniture for the most contemporary living room, and more, your Sims can now give their homes an ultra-modern makeover! After you modernize their homes, turn your attention to their wardrobes and give them an overhaul with sophisticated, cutting-edge fashions. Whether it’s your Sims themselves or their homes that needs a new look, The Sims 3 Design & High-Tech Stuff lets you catapult your Sims into a more modern, loft-inspired lifestyle!

• Add high-end furnishings to your Sims bedroom, entertainment room, office and patio.
  
  
• Transform your Sims’ homes into cutting-edge spaces with contemporary sofas, sleek coffee tables, and eclectic art.
  
  
• Give your Sims coveted electronics including high-tech, ultra-slim TVs, video game systems, stereos, and more.
  
  
• Upgrade your Sims’ wardrobes with fashion-forward apparel, tailored suits, and sophisticated outerwear.
  
  
• Plus Bonus Anniversary Items! This special 10th Anniversary pack also includes three well-loved items from The Sims and The Sims 2 games: the heart-shaped vibrating bed, the electric guitar, and the aquarium.

The Sims 3 World Adventures was released in the UK today. The RRP is £29.99, but you can get it for £5 less in a lot of places and websites such as Game.co.uk and Amazon.co.uk. When registering your game on TheSims3.com, you get 1,000 "free" SimPoints to buy items from The Sims 3 Store, which is worth £6.

The Sims are on the adventure of their lifetime in The Sims™ 3 World Adventures, the first expansion pack for The Sims 3.

Guide your Sims to fortune or doom as you take them to famous real-world inspired destinations to conquer challenges such as finding treasure and discover what’s lurking in hidden caves . . .

From mastering martial arts in Shang Simla, China, to discovering rich culture and famous landmarks on a romantic getaway to Champs Les Sims, France, or exploring the depths of ancient tombs in Al Simhara, Egypt, your Sims will learn new skills and chase down new personal opportunities.

They’ll be able to meet new Sims with unique personalities, share their culture and bring them home. They can even discover new styles on their travels and share everything they encounter through photographs, movies, and stories.

Also, The Sims 3 Store currently has a sale on at the moment (obviously trying to get you to spend your "free" SimPoints).

First of all I should mention that The Sims 3 World Adventures has now been released in the US, but some other countries and the UK will have to wait till Friday for the game.

The trailer for the France destination in World Adventures has been released at last. You can watch it on YouTube.

Yet another object has been added to The Sims 3 Store which you can download for free.

Modern HDTV by Webbsta Industries

Are you looking for an all-in-one entertainment system for your home? If so, the Modern HDTV by Webbsta Industries is your solution. This setup includes a gorgeous display, multimedia electronics and even its own wall frame and stand! Each unit is assembled by Mr. Webb himself. Talk about an impressive package!

Some new screenshots and renders have shown up recently too. (The two renders were also released in transparent .png format. You can download the transparent files here).

Two new other World Adventures videos have also been uploaded to YouTube on the official TheSims channel in the last week or so.

• The Adventures of Brad
• Nelly Furtado Simlish Music Video Manos al Aire
  

TheSims3.com added a new page with various offers and info on new games, items and other goodies for Christmas.

It has information on the holiday-themed Limited Edition of The Sims 3 Collector's Edition as well as some info about new holiday-themed gift items which are coming soon to The Sims 3 Store. As well as this, there are four new holiday-themed desktop wallpapers in both 1680x1050 and 1280x1024 formats.

Limited Edition

Last chance! The limited edition holiday release of The Sims 3 Collector's Edition has all the extras of the original Collector's Edition along with new bonus content.

Learn more

Gifts from The Sims 3 Store*

Coming Soon! New Holiday items for your Sims.

The Explorer's Loot set has been added to The Sims 3 Store which you can download for free to enchance your World Adventures gameplay with 15 new adventure themed objects. I belief it may require the registration of World Adventures to download, but I'm not entirely sure.

Explorer's Loot

15 Items for FREE

Get exclusive, all-new content when you register your game! Prepare your Sims for adventure with the Explorer’s Loot download. Unlock the secrets of tombs, catacombs and caves with mysterious maps. Deck out your Sims homes with exotic Egyptian furniture, Chinese décor, and more!

As well as this, two new seperate World Adventures themed objects have also been added to The Sims 3 Store for FREE.

The Sleeker-Sleeper

Neverthought you could own sleek furniture? Never thought you would actually want to own sleek furniture? Well now you can! Introducing the Sleeker-Sleeper: Putting the “sleek” back in sleeping.

Cellar Arch

Great arches are hard to come by and it’s even harder to make one that is durable and everlasting. The Cellar Arch is a great addition to any stone walls or underground rooms.

TheSims3.com added a new page featuring a sort of diary from a fictional Sims characater, Melody St. Martin, where she describes her adventures in the three different destinations in World Adventures.

My name is Melody St. Martin and I consider myself a ratheradventurous Sim but when I embarked on a whirlwind tour of places Iwanted to visit I didn't realize what a surprise I was in for! Myfriends had told me about their exciting travels to Al Simhara, Egypt,Champ Les Sims, France and Shang SimLa, China and I couldn't wait toexperience it for myself.

Friendly Faces in Champs Les Sims!

Day 1 - I decided to start off with a trip to Champ Les Sims, France -my family has a bit of French heritage and I LOVE good food so itseemed like a natural choice. When I arrived I was dropped off at aBEAUTIFUL quaint countryside house. I was able to choose any room Iwanted, hang out by the rustic fireplace and start planning out mytime. I ran into a really nice traveler from China and she mentionedthat I should really get a camera. Of course! How could I forgetsomething so obvious! I immediately headed into town to the marketplace where I was able to pick up a cute little camera, I'm sure it'sgoing to be perfect to capture all my future favorite sights. I'venever been much of a photographer, but I suppose there's never a bettertime to start. I decided to try out my new camera in the market place.Looking around I saw an adorable French couple drinking coffee at asidewalk café, a number of locals were coming and going from the nearbyshops and I saw an AMAZINGLY cute guy sitting at the fountain. I HAD tocome up with a reason to talk to him. Since I also happen to be quite aflirt, I decided to pretend I had camera troubles and started aconversation about SLR cameras. I'm not sure what that even means, buthey, it worked! After our chat he told me I should really visit thelocal Nectary. The town is known for its historic contributions to theart of fine Nectar making (or so I think he said - his eyes were reallyattractive.) I didn't want our chat to end so I kindly asked if hecould show me the way. We agreed to meet up in the morning and head tothe Nectary. I was getting really hungry - the food smelled SOOOOamazing. I sat outside where I could people watch and ordered adelicious bowl of Bouillabasse (so delicious!)... I just couldn'tconvince myself to order Frog's Legs, I'm not that brave. After mytasty meal I took a walk down towards the water. From the waterfront Icould see the Eiffel Tower on the horizon, amazing! And a great photoopportunity. I ran into a small local boy fishing, he had alreadycaught some frogs, some fish and even a little snail. I just can't getover how quaint and welcoming this town feels!

Day 2 - I took a nice lazy morning stroll on my way back to themarket to meet my guide, and I snapped some photos along the way ofsome lovely local butterflies, some of the gorgeous local homes and atrain I saw off in the distant mountains. He was there waiting for meand so we were off. Turns out we were able to hop on some nearbyscooters and head up the hill to the Nectary. The rush of the windblowing through my hair as I zipped around on my sporty scooter was soinvigorating. I really need to take one of these home with me.Unfortunately as soon as we arrived, cute guy received a phone call andhad to go (so sad!) He gave me his number, I'll definitely call himlater. After a quick hello and chat about the history (They claim tohave some famous heritage and relation to somebody named Jean Necteaux?Who knows), the Nectary owners were so friendly they let me just wanderaround on my own. I took some time to admire the amazing nectarcollection - combinations of so many exotic grapes and other fruits - Inever would have imagined! I wandered down to the cellar area andactually got to try out some nectar making by myself! I threw a bunchof fruits into the nectar tub and squished them with my own feet(eww!). Then I let the machine do its work and a short time later hadmy very own custom nectar to take home with me (I call it the St MartinSpecial). I took a few more pictures to document my creation and wenton my merry way. I only have one more day - but there's so much to do!

Day 3 - Wow, how can this already be my last day in Champs LesSims? I really need to come back here! I decided to spend the daypicking up some souvenirs, little items to remind me of my experiences.At the shop I talked with a vendor who sold specialty goods - heconvinced me to buy a tent (of all things!). I also decided to pick upa recipe for those Frog's Legs that I was too afraid to eat. I alsobought a few local novels, some exotic fruits and even a littlegargoyle statue (he'll look PERFECT in my garden back home). I know I'mnew to this town (and country!) and I learned from another tourist thatI really need to improve my Visa Level. It's basically my reputationwith any country I visit. The more I visit, the longer I can stay andthe more opportunities I might have to explore new areas! I might evenbe able to purchase my own home here someday, wouldn't that be awesome!For now - I'm heading back to Sunset Valley to get ready for the nextleg of my trip - Shang SimLa!!

 

Sightseeing in Shang SimLa

Day 1 - After a long flight, I'm here in exotic Shang SimLa,China! The view as we landed was breathtaking - the lush greenmountains, brilliant trees and breathtaking waterfalls! I can't wait toexplore! Thank goodness I left my batch of France photos at home, I'mpretty sure my camera would explode! I get to stay at an old MonkRetreat that has been turned into a tourist home away from home. I'vealready met a couple who told me they were here to explore theMysterious Dragon Cave - I bet that's the amazing thing I saw on thehill coming in to town! I can't WAIT to get out and see the sights, butwhere to start? I snapped some photos of my temporary humble abode andset off for town. No matter where I am, it seems like the market is agood place to meet people. I love looking around at all the differentstyles of clothing and décor in the different cities. The women arewearing beautiful dresses and robes; and the men have hats that looklike they are made of paper. The entrance to the main city is amazing.The bridges and HUGE gates are so awe inspiring. I could take hundredsof photos of only the architecture! I was greeted by friendly localsleft and right, and saw so many bikes rolling by, the activity here isinfectious. I was itching to learn something new but my stomach wasgrowling so I stopped for a quick bite of some fresh egg rolls. It tookme a while to get the hang of using the chopstix, but once I was ableto get a nibble in my mouth, yum! SOOOO good. I know it's only my firstday but it's never too early to start thinking about souvenirs! I tooka gander at the shops to see some samples of what I might be able totake home - an incense burner, historical books, more exotic foods, Icould even buy my own fortune cookie maker! Sweet! I'm not sure howthat will fit in my luggage. Hm… anyway, I spent the rest of theafternoon wandering around town looking at the houses, the amazingtemple at the heart of town and again the architectural history anddetail.

Day 2 - I heard through the grapevine that while I was in ShangSimLa I just HAD to visit the Academy. It seemed like a good way tostart the day! After a quick bike ride up the hill I reached theAcademy. Nestled into the hillside it was so quiet and serene, hardlythe place I expect to see such drive and determination at work. Themartial artists I saw once I got there were so impressive I can hardlydescribe them. There happened to be a training dummy available for meso I decided to give it a shot . I have to say, it's MUCH harder thanit looks. After numerous failed kicks and jabs, and a few bumps on myhead, I'd had enough. The board breaker seemed like the way to go - boywas I wrong. You'd think ANYONE could break a foam board right?Apparently not. I ended my day with a hurt hand, and a little woundedpride, but excited as ever about having tried something new. I ran intoan explorer when I got back to my room and he told me how much he justloves Shang SimLa. He's been back so many times that he's actuallyearned a Level 3 Visa! He can now visit for weeks at a time and isworking on saving money to purchase his own exotic home. He likes totravel with his family but it's so hard when he's off exploring. He wastelling me how excited he was to have a more constant residence so hisfamily could come and travel with him! Maybe someday the cute Frenchguy will come travel with me.. sigh...

Day 3 - 3 Days just FLY by! I've barely had time to check outso many other things I was told to look at. I was hoping to pick up oneof those stunning fans I see the locals using, I haven't even tried allthe food and I haven't even begun to learn about the new local insectsor fish. Before I get carried away, here's what I DID do on my lastday. I decided to venture a bit more out into the "wild" so to speak. Itoured another remarkable old Monastery, walked along the river to getsome amazing views of the waterfalls and chatted with a nice old man Imet who told me something all about "the Resolute Fist" (I think). Heseemed really excited like he was telling me a big secret, I think if Ihad more time I would have loved to have asked around a bit more. Hestarted humming a little tune that he was kind enough to teach mebefore he had to get back to his work. My friends back home will be soimpressed by my cultural learnings! I came across a pile of what Ithought was junk but after digging around a little I found some reallycool old artifacts. Little pieces of pottery, a vase, a bowl and themost adorable carved tiger I've EVER seen. I decided to keep the Tiger(he's so cute!!) but I sold off the other relics I'd found for awhopping $2500 Simoleons! Holy cow! I'm not sure how anything could topthis.

 

Absorbing Al Simhara

Day 1 - After nearly a week of travel I should be getting tiredbut honestly I'm just so enthralled with all these new things. I savedAl Simhara for last as I think it's the most "rugged" destination on myitinerary. I feel like I'm a little more prepared after being sopampered on my other travels. Boy was I right, sleeping in a dusty tentis a far cry from my private room at the chateau. Is it worse?Absolutely not! Waking up to a camp full of fellow travelers is likenothing else. As per usual, I headed to the market first! Now that I'dwarmed up to this new photography thing I decided to upgrade my littlecamera to a far more advanced SLR (now I actually DO know what thatmeans). And wow is it snazzy - more options, more effects to apply tomy photos, more sizes. This will really come in handy when showcasingmy travels. To give my new camera a proper road test I decided to takea scooter tour around town (I REALLY do need to get one of those). Istarted at the Great Sphinx and it is as awesome as I thought it wouldbe. Something in the air around the sphinx gave me a sense that therewas some great magic and power at work there. After another short ride,I headed over to the Great Pyramids, it looked like there might be away in, but I was so caught up taking pictures I hardly gave it asecond thought. I decided to travel back through town towards theTemple of Hapshepsut. I spent quite awhile exploring around there andmanaged to find some scarabs and some sort of shiny metal (a shopkeepertold me later it was mummitomium! Strange name, I know). I wanted tohead over to the Temple of Abu Simbel but it was getting kind of darkand a trek across the desert seemed a little too far for me. headedback to camp and spent a cozy evening trading stories around the fire.

Day 2 - I met a really nice local family this morning, theycouldn't stop praising the wonderful local cuisine so I promised togive it a try. I decided to head to the market again and find out whatelse I should see while I was in town. The merchant dazzled me withtales of adventures and danger, he even mentioned long-hidden secretchambers and treasures. His amazing pitch convinced me to buy somedried food (terrible stuff I have to say) and a shower in a can (Ican't BELIEVE I bought that, how embarrassing). After the dried foodincident I opted for a more filling meal, some Shawerma! How delicious!As I finished up, I overheard a charming melody and walked into themarket square to see a snake charmer! I saw a local try to kiss thesnake! No really, I did. Later, I overheard somebody mention an"adventure board" which piqued my interest so I headed back to basecamp to see what my fellow explorers knew about this "adventure" stuff.Asking them about adventures REALLY got them going. They traded storieswith me for hours, and I was getting more and more psyched aboutchecking out some of the crazy things they were telling me! (Firetraps? Dive Wells? Yeah right.)

Day 3 - I got up really early today figuring maybe I could seewhat this adventure stuff was all about. I didn't even notice before,but the adventure board was right in my camp! (I'm not the brightestsometimes). I noticed a posting to help recover some lost papers, thatseemed easy enough and I figured why not, this may be my last day, butmaybe I could help somebody and gain a little more pull with the localsfor my next visit. It turns out there was an abandoned building behindthe camp, I had to push around a few statues and unlock some doors butI managed to find the papers. I also found some really cool ancientcoins although I'm not sure what to do with them yet. It turned outthat this little task was hardly a sample of the types of things Icould help the locals with here but I really didn't want to miss out onanymore photographs or landmarks! I've already captured pictures of allsorts of amazing places, just a few more and I'd be sure to have acomplete collection! Of course, my time is already up, need to save upmore simoleons for my next visit!! I can't wait to return.

I just got back from the last leg of my trip and all I can sayis wow. I saw SO many amazing things, took in some truly inspiringsights, learned about new cultures and met wonderful people, I can'twait to go back. I feel like I barely scratched the surface. There's somuch to experience and collect, so much more to do! My friend Landonleft me a message about his travels and told me he met a Mummy!! AMUMMY! I didn't even know there were tombs...

Thanks for reading - Melody

PS. If you are reading this cute French guy, I promise to call you soon.

 

New Screenshots

Even more screenshots of World Adventures have shown up on various sites recently.

Superstar Rumour

According to PlanetSims, apparently, Mark Joshua from SimVIP let slip some possible info about the idea of the next Expansion Pack at the Brazil World Adventures event. But as it stands, it's just a rumour at the moment, so don't get your hopes up.

"During our chat, MM left “escape” a valuable piece of information when he was in California, the game’s developers said they have almost Super Star in The Sims 3, hopefully in the next expansion, imagine the possibility of having stars will Holywood in our game? Let’s wait for the good news, where there’s smoke there’s fire."

World Adventures TV Ad

A new television ad for World Adventures has been created. Although it's similar graphics to the TV ad for The Sims 3, it doesn't have much of an affect in my opinion. Watch it on YouTube.

A little bit late again, but The Sims 3 Store has been updated with some new object and clothing sets recently...

Asian Fusion

27 items for 1,000 SimPoints

Melding Asian motifs and contemporary comfort, this furniture collection always has a sense of humor, much like a fortune cookie.

Mischief Makers’ Bedrooms

31 items for 1,250 SimPoints

What child (or adult) can ignore the call to adventure found in the Critter Comforts or the Forest Bedroom?

Wild Wears

12 items for 400 SimPoints

Critter Clothing Intl unleashes their newest collection of spunky and rambunctious clothing for the young ones.

Items from The Mischief Makers' Bedroom set can also be bought in two seperate sets, in the Critter Comfort Set or Forest Bedroom Set.

Some new Christmas clothing has also been added.

Knitter Nights (75 SimPoints)

Fairies armed with knitting needles and reindeer wool have created an illustration of all things happy and full of holiday cheer. And it even keeps you warm.

Holiday Hearth Apron (75 SimPoints)

It is never too early to crank up classic holiday tunes and it is never out of season to celebrate with this apron.

Caroller Sweater and Skirt (75 SimPoints)

Santa’s elves couldn’t have a better outfit. The fuzzy trim detail and pom pom ties are must haves for sledding in a winter wonderland.

Caroller Sweater and Skirt Teen (75 SimPoints)

Santa’s elves couldn’t have a better outfit. The fuzzy trim detail and pom pom ties are must haves for sledding in a winter wonderland.

I believe there may also be some new clothes for child female Sims.

As well as all of this, two new World Adventure themed bedroom items have been added to The Sims 3 Store which you can download for free to prepare for the new Expansion Pack.

Tomb Sled Sleeper

When the desert sandstorms are slowly polishing the skin and a sand-free slumber is desired, look through the distracting mirages of competing sleeping arrangements and settle into the ancient comforts of the Tomb Sled Sleeper. Engraved with hieroglyphic instructions for the sleep enthused archeologist, the Sled Sleeper provides a tomb-like experience… without removing your organs!

The Desert’s End

When roaming a tumultuous expanse of couch in search of relief for your plate or cup, look no further than the Desert’s End end table. Just like an oasis found at the end of nearly every desert, you can rest your weary tableware in the bosom of this sweet respite.

I have to say sorry again for yet another absence from my site over the last few days so soon after my last absence. Well as luck would have it my anti-virus protection ran out last week before I'd had the chance to buy a new one. Even now, I'm using a downloaded free version before buying one of PC Tools 2010 anti-virus products when it's released. Anyway, I've got even more news to catch up on, mostly regarding World Adventures...

First of all, the back cover for World Adventures has been found.

Secondly, the factsheet for the France location in World Adventures has shown up.

Champs Les Sims, France

Learn Nectar Making or Explore Photography in France

• The Good Life – Champs Les Sims, France offers the cultural elite some of the finer things in life. Sims can learn the fine culinary art of nectar making, or flash over with a camera to learn the Photography Skill. This beautiful country town is sure to please the senses and invigorate the soul.
• Civilized Folk – Settled towards the end of the Medieval Period, Champs Les Sims has a rich history and culture. From the arts to delicious culinary delights, this small French town has everything Sims need to live a comfortable life.
• Try Your Feet at Nectar Making! Sims fascinated by Gardening and the culinary arts can now refine their talents by learning the nectar making skill. Combine your own fruits with new types of grapes or other fruits to create unique Nectar combinations. After stomping the fruit, the nectar maker processes the juice into delicious nectar. Sell, trade or enjoy these new flavors! Sims can learn all about nectar making by using the nectar maker from the Nectary or by reading books bought in France. The Nectary in Champs Les Sims should be visited by any Sims interested in nectar making or for purchasing nectar making equipment!  But, Beware – The Nectary isn’t just a tourist location for those who enjoy the flavors of nectar, but the site of one of the deadliest and most expansive tombs in the world.
• Exploration – The Celtic Burial Mound is a relatively safe tomb for new travelers to explore. Look for it in the far corner of town – it’s the large mound covered with ancient, mystical looking stones. The Faerie Tomb has long been hidden, though it’s just waiting for a new explorer to discover its secrets. Complete the first section to gain access to the vast riches tucked away on the island.
• Café – The Champs Les Sims marketplace is a great place to purchase new French Recipes and Nectar Making equipment! It’s also a great place to sit and enjoy a cup of coffee or delicious local crepe.
• Solve the Case – Think you’re up to the task of solving the mystery of the wily Jean Necteaux? Take on an adventure in France and see where it leads!
• Tour Time – Take a tour of the local museum, which showcases relics and artifacts from all around the world. The Museum is a great place to look for treasures that inspire you to adventure and explore.
• Creatures! – Collect new local wildlife like Frogs and Snails and take them home as pets.
• Not by Foot – Zip around town on a cool new scooter and take in the sights and the fresh country air!

The factsheet for the China location in World Adventures has also been published.

• Home – A peaceful, isolated community in the mountainous region of China. Founded by a group of monks long ago, the locals take pride in their discipline and mental clarity. They enjoy visitors, but encourage tourists to spend their visit in a peaceful and respectful manner.
  
• People – Home to people that value discipline, peace and clarity of mind over all else. While there, adventurers are encouraged to visit the Academy to learn the Martial Arts skill, then head to the Scholar’s Garden for introspective meditation.
  
• The Mysterious Dragon Cave – High on the hill, overlooking Shang SimLa is a cave of cloudy origin. What happened there? What does it mean? Follow the smoke up the hill to find the mysterious Dragon Cave, which holds the key to the mystery of this forgotten valley.
  
• Local Color – Purchase fireworks from the local general merchant and travel to the tallest hill to put on a spectacle worth writing home about! Be careful though, beauty has its’ cost (not meant for indoor use).
  
• Awesome Army – The ancient and resolute Terracotta Soldiers of the long-dead First Emperor can be found deep within the hillsides of Shang Simla. Visit them and stand in awe of their majesty!
  
• Heavenly Vista – High above town, take in the breathtaking views and calm of this great site. Explore the ancient and mystical Temple of Heaven to uncover untold secrets left long ago.
  
• It said what?! – Purchase the Fortune Cookie Maker to enjoy the hilarious and foreboding fortunes for your Sims. Take one home yourself to give luck (or maybe not) to your neighbors.
  
• Untold Wonders – Discover a lifetime of riches in Dong Huo’s Treasure Trove. Uncover all the secrets and your Sims may never need to work again!

Quite a few new screenshots have shown up on various sites as well.

IGN also published an article about France and China in World Adventures with two gameplay videos on China quests.

EA have announced that they will be releasing a Create-A-World Tool which they used to create Riverview. With the tool, you will be able to create your own neighbourhood by editing the landscape (valleys, hills, etc.), and I'm guessing you'll be able to add roads as well. Gamespot have published an article about the new tool which will be released as beta at The Sims 3 Store this December (for free).

The Sims 3 was released earlier this year to much fanfare and acclaim. The third game continued the tradition of letting players create little computer people who led little computer lives as they love, laugh, work, and buy property in the virtual suburbs just outside of SimCity. All versions of The Sims have had a "build mode" editing tool that lets players construct housing and alter terrain. The upcoming World Adventures expansion pack for The Sims 3 will also let players create "adventure" zones with switches and buttons that trigger different events, such as revealing secret passages and treasures. But later this year, the publisher will release a separate new editing tool called "Create-a-World," which will essentially let players build out not only a house, but also an entire neighborhood from scratch.

Create-a-World is intended for serious Sims enthusiasts willing to devote enough time to build entire neighborhoods from scratch. The tool is actually the same one that the development team uses to create the playfields for The Sims 3 and its expansions. Because it's the same tool that the developers use, it can create areas similar to those that appear in the base game and expansions, in four different size levels. (The Sims 3's default neighborhood of Sunset Valley is the largest of the four world sizes.)

Like with the build mode of The Sims 3, you can manipulate terrain by raising it to create mountains or lowering it to create valleys and then "paint" the terrain using either the textures or terrain types available in the editing tools. Or, if you're ambitious enough, you can use image-editing tools, such as Photoshop to create your own JPEG and PNG textures to map onto your custom neighborhoods. Once built, these areas can be exported from the tool and then either imported into your own game install (you can have as many custom neighborhoods in your game as your computer's hard drive space allows) or uploaded to the Exchange community site to share with other users. It's not yet clear what the average file size of a custom neighborhood will be, but EA community representatives assured GameSpot regardless of how big they are, custom neighborhoods will be subject to the same sort of community-plus-EA-oversight content moderation process used for other custom content.

While giving users the ability to create entire lots from scratch will give hardcore fans the ability to create huge new areas to explore, the EA team clarified that the tool will work off of each user's installed games. That is, if you wish to create a community lot using the adventure-based gameplay of The Sims 3 World Adventures, you must own World Adventures and have it installed; the created lot can be used only by players who also own that expansion. In any case, EA states that Create-a-World is not intended to replace the new gameplay features that traditional Sims 3 expansion packs typically introduce, such as the new careers and adventure gameplay in World Adventures. EA plans to continue to work on full expansion packs that not only add new terrain and areas to explore, but will also introduce new gameplay concepts that will be unique to the expansions themselves.

Create-a-World will be a separate utility that will weigh in at about 130MB and be free to download from the official Sims 3 Web site. The tool is planned for release in a beta state this December in all languages--EA plans to support and improve the utility over time as it receives feedback from the fan community.

Murano at TheSimsResource was able to somehow preview the tool and create a blog post detailing the new Create-A-World Tool feature with screenshots.

The Sims 3 Team also released a couple of Halloween-themed screenshots.

Phew, that's about all of it. Again sorry for my absence. On a positive note, as my Norton 360 antivirus expired, I can somewhat play The Sims 3 again now (for up to 2 hours before it crashes), but it's still pretty slow and still crashes eventually. However, I am becoming more interested in the game now seen as I can play it, and once I get more RAM, I'll become even more interested, so updates should become a bit more regular. Unfortunately I also have my school prelims (like exams, but not as important), coming up in two weeks which will last till the start of December, so for the first time ever, I'm actually going to have to revise A LOT, so will most likely not have enough free time to do many updates to my site. Once they're all over though, except a lot more updates. =]