First look: The Sims 2

Electronic Arts has released the first screenshots of The Sims 2, the upcoming sequel to the best-selling PC game of all time. The major new feature in The Sims 2 is DNA that lets sims pass on certain characteristics to their offspring. Sims will not only grow old, but their physical appearance will reflect the sort of activities they pass their time doing. A sim that is relatively inactive, for instance, can be seen to grow overweight. The Sims 2 is based on a proprietary 3D engine, which will allow new facial expressions and body gestures. The screenshots above show the sort of detail we can expect from the game's new graphics engine.

The Sims 2 is scheduled to ship in 2004. We expect to see more of the game at E3, which will take place in Los Angeles next week.