Chat With Virginia McArthur About The Sims Bustin' Out

Thanks to everyone that showed up and submitted their questions! If you missed the event, read the transcripts.

MaxisKitty (Oct 16, 2003 5:59:29 PM)
Hello and welcome to the todays chat starring Virginia McArthur. Virginia is the Producer on Sim Bustin' Out for Gameboy Advance.

MaxisShorty (Oct 16, 2003 6:02:56 PM)
Virginia is answering questions right now. Please be patient.

thesiddog (Oct 16, 2003 6:03:11 PM)
Will the GBA version be more like an RPG then a sim?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:03:11 PM)
Once a SIm game, ALWAYS a SIM game We do incorporate some of the features of the GBA that make it so popular. We are allowing users to DIRECTLY control their SIms. You will be able to drive your Sim from one location to another. You can walk by holding the "A" buttona nd Run by holding the "B" button. If you are familar with THE SIMS on COnsole from last year, you will know that we added a goal oriented style of gameplay and we have taken that to teh nex tlevel on the GBA - But never fear, THIS IS stil THE SIMS andyou have to pat attnetion to maotvies an needs - wiat til' you see them use the bathroom

numba1simsplaya (Oct 16, 2003 6:04:21 PM)
Virginia... Is it true that you and the other Bustin' Out producers have programed a mind control chip into the game to hypnotise gamers and take over hte world?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:04:21 PM)
Not necessarily a chip - but addictive gameplay that will keep you mesmorized for HOURS! THE GBA version is clokcing anywhere from 30-40 hours of gamplay.

The Sim's Stash (Oct 16, 2003 6:04:56 PM)
When will The Sim: Bustin' Out for GBA be released?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:04:56 PM)
Look for it in mid-December - just in time for the Holidays.

ChEeTaH (Oct 16, 2003 6:05:21 PM)
Will online playing be included in the X-Box version or is that PS2 exclusive?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:05:22 PM)
We are focusing on GBA - but I can answer this one for you ....just PS2.

strillor (Oct 16, 2003 6:06:03 PM)
How many sims can be in 1 family?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:06:03 PM)
You control one SIm on theGBA - controlling multiple Sims would be cumbersome. You can get a roomate, but only one. They are great to have around to help clean and take care of your PET!

rab (Oct 16, 2003 6:07:40 PM)
Can you interact with NPCS like in The Sims 2?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:07:40 PM)
All Sims titles depend on NPCs for Social Points and in the GBA we are no different! We do in fact introduce a close-up social screen where you can ask questions and get direct resopnses from the NPCs. Watch out for OLDE Salty! He can be very mean

MaxisShorty (Oct 16, 2003 6:09:10 PM)
Everyone should be on the lookout for our just launched Console section on thesims.com where you can learn about Bustin' Out for the PS2, GameCube, Xbox, and the GBA!

Guest (Oct 16, 2003 6:09:45 PM)
how will the sims GBA differ from the sims on the computer?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:09:46 PM)
Sims on the Console are taking the franchise to a new level. We are directly challenging the players with goals and levels to achieve before we unlock locations and objects. On the GBA you have upt o 20 locations to explore. You start in one locations, you thne unlcok a small art of town for Level 2 and then by Level 3, you are unleashed to the whole MAP.

TNIC (Oct 16, 2003 6:11:15 PM)
Will there be a way to link 2 GBA's together to play with friends?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:11:15 PM)
Great Question! Yes, once you get to Level 3, you will unlock the library. You will get acces to the Librarby computer that you can clickon adn then link up to 4 GBAs together to trade and aucitons rare items. FOR example, depending on what astrological sign you choose, you will get a special recliner, and only your sign unlocks this recliner.

littleray (Oct 16, 2003 6:12:43 PM)
the graphics in the game look pretty detailed, i saw in a picture what looked like a detailed 3d model of a guy wearing a bandana and biker out fit, am i seeing thngs

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:12:43 PM)
It is magic We start with 3D and then they become sprites. We have a great gorup of artists and engineers that are helping us with this title up in SEATTLE, Griptonite. They know how to add the extra touch to make their graphics pop.

freaksgeeks (Oct 16, 2003 6:13:23 PM)
You said that we can have one roommate, can this roommate be a wife/husband?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:13:23 PM)
We do not have the full ceremony, but you can get a love bit,a nd if this NPC is your roomate, then the rest is up to your imagination!

rab (Oct 16, 2003 6:14:26 PM)
Are there any Minigames you can unlock?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:14:26 PM)
Another good one! YES - we have 8 mini-games. These mini-games substitute for your jobs that you used to have to go to in other versions of The Sims. My favorite is the CLIFF DIVING game.

bj2 (Oct 16, 2003 6:15:43 PM)
can we throw paries like in house party

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:15:43 PM)
The object of the game is to find yourself advanced to the big mansion., Once there, and you complete this Level, you might just find yourself the center of attention with lots of guests at your house.

TNIC (Oct 16, 2003 6:17:40 PM)
Will you also be able to link to the game cube version somehow?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:17:40 PM)
YES! You can download your GCN Sim into the GBA and they can earn fast simoleans and extra skill points to take back with them when they return to the GCN. You can also unlock a mini-game cabinet on the GCN to playt eh GBA mini-games. This is BIG cheat for GCn players...hint, hint, hint....

MaxisShorty (Oct 16, 2003 6:18:11 PM)
The GameBoy version of Bustin Out will be rated E for everyone!

MaxisShorty (Oct 16, 2003 6:19:29 PM)
Children can't be spanked as a punishment, in case you were wondering.

The Sim's Stash (Oct 16, 2003 6:19:45 PM)
What are some of the objects in the game that are new to "the sims world"?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:19:45 PM)
The coolest new object is the SCOOTER! You will unlock a scooter that you can then hop on to get to all the locations quickly. Some say that you need this to escape the VELOCIROSTER, you will find him lurking about in Levels 3-5, be careful, he has mean peck and it could send you to the hospital after passing out.

rab (Oct 16, 2003 6:21:00 PM)
About the Auctions, do you get Simoleons for any furniture you trade or do you get furniture in reutrn?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:21:00 PM)
Auctions are all about the objects, no money can be passed back and forth, if you connect GBA to GBA you can use the auciton and give the obejct away for free, this would be the nice way to trade, not the fun way however.

MaxisShorty (Oct 16, 2003 6:21:58 PM)
The pricing of the game has not been determined, but this is going to be a premium-priced game for the GBA

Guest (Oct 16, 2003 6:21:59 PM)
can you leave the house?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:22:00 PM)
YES - you actually , never START in a house. The fist few goals incorporate getting yourself into a house.

Guest (Oct 16, 2003 6:22:56 PM)
Is the Sims Bustin Out for Xbox or game cube?

MaxisShorty (Oct 16, 2003 6:22:56 PM)
Bustin Out will be available on all three consoles and the GBA. You should check out the new console section on thesims.com to learn more about each version.

TNIC (Oct 16, 2003 6:23:25 PM)
If the mini-games are substitutes for the jobs, are you saying that there are NO jobs? If this is the case, how much in simoleons can you win per play on the mini-games?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:23:25 PM)
The mini-games are your Jobs - this time you have to work for your money. The amount you make depends on your talent in the particualr game. OFR expample,I can make up to 170 Simoleans easy int eh lawn-mower game, but never get passed 50 in teh Pizza making game...

Allyspill (Oct 16, 2003 6:23:48 PM)
Why is this game rated E for everyone?

MaxisShorty (Oct 16, 2003 6:23:48 PM)
Because we want everyone to play it

stony (Oct 16, 2003 6:24:01 PM)
Will the Newbies or Goths be making any cameos?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:24:01 PM)
The GBA title has a whole new cast of characters to knwo and love - look for Bella in the enw console version though!

SimCrazy84 (Oct 16, 2003 6:24:20 PM)
Will there be insects like flies,rouches ect?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:24:20 PM)
You bettcha, and you better keep the flies away or your home score will plumet.

The Sim's Stash (Oct 16, 2003 6:25:13 PM)
what type of pets are there? and how do they work?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:25:13 PM)
Pets are pretty simple in this version on the GBA. You can go to the Local Animal Shelter and pick up a cat or dog. On occasion, you will find the stray Llama that needs a good home too.

x_Sims_Crazy_x (Oct 16, 2003 6:25:19 PM)
How many different mini-games are there?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:25:19 PM)
8 title.

starlightbright (Oct 16, 2003 6:26:19 PM)
is it harder or easier to control the sims without a mouse? can you tell us a bit about how we control them?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:26:19 PM)
By pressing "A" and using the "D-PAD" you control their direction. It was a bit tough getting used to, but once you get the hang of it, you never want to go back to watching your Sims walk to places.

The Sim's Stash (Oct 16, 2003 6:27:30 PM)
How long did it take to make the game (from begining to end)?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:27:30 PM)
We put together a demo fo the product a few years back to see how it would look. We went back to the same group that did this, GRIPTONITE, and asked them to be our developer as we decide to move forward with production, we officially started this past March.

Dhgyd (Oct 16, 2003 6:28:29 PM)
Will there be any items in this game that doesn't appear in any other sim game?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:28:29 PM)
YES, we have the astrological recliners and speical gifts you can buy at the trinket shop for the NPCs in the game.

bj2 (Oct 16, 2003 6:29:16 PM)
will there be kids in the game

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:29:16 PM)
Nope, you just get to choose from one Sim type and you get to choose gender, skin type, hair, shirt,pant and shoe color.

MaxisShorty (Oct 16, 2003 6:29:38 PM)
If you don't see your questions, don't worry! We get a lot of questions from all our eager fans, and we're trying to answer as many as we can in the time we have

Guest (Oct 16, 2003 6:29:45 PM)
Who is your favorite NPC in the game?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:29:45 PM)
Nicki Nack, but she drives most everyone else crazy - after that would come Dusty Hogg.

thesiddog (Oct 16, 2003 6:30:20 PM)
Can you see your Sims driving on the road or do they just drive off the screen?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:30:20 PM)
You drive them along the road and you can even finda few stairs to go up and down. HAVE FUN with this feature.

ButrScth19 (Oct 16, 2003 6:32:06 PM)
It says their is a sim eating plant. If it eats your sim are they dead?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:32:06 PM)
You can buy the Venus Fly Eating Plant to help keep your flies at bay - but be careful whenyou water it, it might just take you as a snack. DOn't worry though, ont eh GBA you never really die, you only pass out. You get taken to the Hospital or your Uncle's house depending on what level you are on in the game.

ButrScth19 (Oct 16, 2003 6:32:51 PM)
In alot of screenshots there are bins of radioactive slime. What is that?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:32:51 PM)
This is for the Console verion We do have radioactive rods ou can collect and take back to the lab for a small amount of cash.

freaksgeeks (Oct 16, 2003 6:33:31 PM)
Can your sims purchase different cars? Or are you provided one in the beginning?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:33:31 PM)
On the GBA - you can only unlock the scooter, the console veriosn however will let you upgrade to some fancey vehicles.

Evert_B (Oct 16, 2003 6:34:03 PM)
If you "pass out" will you lose some skills or money?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:34:03 PM)
No, as a matter of fact, it will help you in some instance to get you back on your feet, the big bummer is that it will take you half -across the map!

Leo (Oct 16, 2003 6:34:15 PM)
Are the Mini-Game Jobs going to be available in the console versions of the game as well??

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:34:15 PM)
Only if you connect to the GCN.

Chris_Nel11 (Oct 16, 2003 6:34:28 PM)
Can we puke?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:34:28 PM)
NOPE!

Juzz12 (Oct 16, 2003 6:35:04 PM)
Can you hire maids or butlers?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:35:04 PM)
You can purchase the Robot MOnkey Maid - it si expensive, but boy does she do the trick. You can also call services at any time from the phone.

starlightbright (Oct 16, 2003 6:35:46 PM)
Do you need game cube to be able to play on your game boy version?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:35:46 PM)
No, the GBA has it's own cartridge.

The Sim's Stash (Oct 16, 2003 6:36:07 PM)
So I take it sims can't "play" in this version...being it is rated E

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:36:07 PM)
They do hold hands onteh couch though

Chris_Nel11 (Oct 16, 2003 6:36:50 PM)
do we have basements..that would be cool!??

MaxisShorty (Oct 16, 2003 6:36:52 PM)
The Sims Bustin Out is coming out for all three consoles and the GBA

Guest (Oct 16, 2003 6:37:52 PM)
Is that game aiming more for younger children? LIke 8 years old. My brother has a hard time with the computer one and I was hoping that this one would be easier

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:37:52 PM)
This game really appeals to everyone, no kidding! We have found that the younger crowd is Awesome at mini-games and we find that the older corwd is really good at the Social game.

Chris_Nel11 (Oct 16, 2003 6:38:53 PM)
do we have basements..that would be cool!

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:38:53 PM)
There are basments of some of the homes and locations, they generally have to be unlocked through game-play and have some hidden treasures in tehm when you get to them - for example you can find the map to the steam-tunnels inthe basement of the CLOCK TOWER.

x_Sims_Crazy_x (Oct 16, 2003 6:39:33 PM)
What is the social game?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:39:33 PM)
The SOcial Game is the close up Social SCreen where you volley back and forth with NPCs with questions and answers and try to get yor relationship score up.

fallinstar931 (Oct 16, 2003 6:39:38 PM)
how many new locations are there?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:39:38 PM)
20

simfan (Oct 16, 2003 6:41:16 PM)
what kind of food is there?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:41:16 PM)
You start with a Frig and a stove - be careful on the stove, you will still catch it on fire if you have low cooing skill. The cool thing is that you can cook fish and burgers down by the seashore when you are walkign about and get a good burger at the Biker Juice Bar. Other restuaants offer some good fare as well.

12992 (Oct 16, 2003 6:41:42 PM)
In your opinion does this game RaWk?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:41:42 PM)
It's just Dag' on COOL!

bernice18_ (Oct 16, 2003 6:42:19 PM)
is this game similar to The Sims? and also what do you mean by "three consoles"?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:42:19 PM)
Very similar - you have to eat, sleep, bath, and talk to others or you might just pass out.

MaxisKitty (Oct 16, 2003 6:43:12 PM)
If you don't see an answer to your question, it may be because it has already been answered. We post the transcripts of the chat events on The Sims site after the event.

starlightbright (Oct 16, 2003 6:43:42 PM)
do you still have to earn skills to make good money?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:43:42 PM)
YES - You will not advance in the mini-games without a certain level of skills. We have a jobs section off of the options menu where you can keep track of what you need to advance to the next level in each of the mini-games, this is VERY helpful.

SimCrazy84 (Oct 16, 2003 6:44:54 PM)
While drive you sims will it just be your sim on the road or will you be able to see other sims to?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:44:54 PM)
If you are not a good driver, like me - you might run into other Sims! Your scooter is smart and will avoid them. The best part about teh scooter is finding other sims on the roads quickly.

Guest (Oct 16, 2003 6:46:09 PM)
Can u actually make a house?????

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:46:09 PM)
You have a pre-set structure that you fill up and decorate with all the cool objects- up to 150 you can find in the world.

Guest (Oct 16, 2003 6:46:56 PM)
How many level's will there be?????

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:46:56 PM)
All of the houses have differnet sets of levels, some are flat ranch style and others, like the clock-tower have 4.

cocco (Oct 16, 2003 6:47:56 PM)
will there be "cheats" for the game?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:47:56 PM)
There are no cheats that you are familar with, there is however a way to unlock a secret NPC that will give you gifts to increase Simolarns and motives....can't tell you where or how to find it though

Joe_The_Coffee_Man (Oct 16, 2003 6:48:27 PM)
IS there a rosebud cheat for GBA?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:48:27 PM)
There is - but you have to find it! Not as easy as typing it in.

The Sim's Stash (Oct 16, 2003 6:49:31 PM)
I have seen a riding lawn mower in some screenshots, what's the deal with that?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:49:31 PM)
This is the lawn-mower mini-game. You have to mow down the weeds, avoid the rose-bushes and watch out for the rocks. You have 2 minutes to get as many weeds as you can. You can play each of the mini-gmes once unlocked once a day.

sunshinechik (Oct 16, 2003 6:49:41 PM)
how many possible objects can be unlocked?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:49:41 PM)
About 150.

Guest (Oct 16, 2003 6:50:21 PM)
Can you mess around in this Hospital you keep mentioning?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:50:21 PM)
Yes - You can visit there. Our testers have found the fancey blu couch there to be a safe haven for quick energy while playing the game.

Guest (Oct 16, 2003 6:51:00 PM)
Can you crash when you drive?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:51:00 PM)
Nah - It is kinda like bumper cars!

Guest (Oct 16, 2003 6:52:20 PM)
will the monkey butler still be in the game?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:52:21 PM)
Nope, there is a great tribute to her in the Console version lab though, check it out! On both GBA and Console you will find the Robot Monkey Maid.

maxgreer (Oct 16, 2003 6:53:09 PM)
in some screenshots ive seen sims dancing in a club, whats with that?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:53:09 PM)
Sims need FUN too Check out the dance club where you can just dance, meet other SIms or try your hand at the Guitar Rock-out Mini-game.

bvtrumpeter (Oct 16, 2003 6:53:40 PM)
Will there be objects in the game that are totally crazy and outta this world, like the Genie and Vodoo doll in The Sims: Livin' Large?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:53:40 PM)
Funny you should mention that - The Genie does make an appearacne, I will ket you find him though, it is classic.

blah (Oct 16, 2003 6:54:13 PM)
MaxisKitty: one more thing, do you ever have chats just about TS2?

MaxisKitty (Oct 16, 2003 6:54:13 PM)
yes look for chats with Luc Barthelet that focus on Sims2 - we had one last week

The Sim's Stash (Oct 16, 2003 6:55:43 PM)
What are the 8 new career mini-games? (Cliff diving, lawn mower, and what are the other 6?)

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:55:43 PM)
Smoothie slider, Fishing, Pizza Pandemonium, Petri Dish, Rock-out, Powerlifter

MaxisKitty (Oct 16, 2003 6:55:49 PM)
Four more minutes left.. submit your best questions about the sims on GBA to Virginia now

maxgreer (Oct 16, 2003 6:56:32 PM)
when are all these chats? every thursday?

MaxisKitty (Oct 16, 2003 6:56:32 PM)
every thursday at 3pm PST

Kelkel (Oct 16, 2003 6:56:51 PM)
What are some fun objects that you can use?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:56:51 PM)
Build sand-castles, play witht eh beach ball, ride the Bull, You actually SWIM in the pool - you drive them in the water, acrade cabinets, and don't forget the scooter!!! This is the ultimate fun object and a great way to keep your motives in check for a while.

Sims2NewsMan (Oct 16, 2003 6:57:03 PM)
will there be any weather in the game?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:57:03 PM)
YES - It RAINS.

blah (Oct 16, 2003 6:58:12 PM)
Virginia: what do you think the best feature of GBA is?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:58:12 PM)
The Social Close-ups and the Mini-games are nifty, but IMO, the coolest feature is the ability to drive your Sim.

jlv230 (Oct 16, 2003 6:59:19 PM)
What is the most convincing reason you should give for me to get this game, considering I love the sims already?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:59:19 PM)
Because this is so new, yet so familar to you. The Sims are asking you to think in a whole new way, you really interact with the SIm, you never loose control of them.

thesiddog (Oct 16, 2003 6:59:39 PM)
Can Sims ride the stray Llama?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 6:59:39 PM)
HE, HE, that would be fuuny...Nope, they just get to feed and pet them.

rubysparky77 (Oct 16, 2003 7:00:15 PM)
What would you say is the most "powerful" object in the SIms for GBA?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 7:00:16 PM)
"Powerful" would be the Tesla-Coil givingyou fast mechanical skill and a really good shock.

maxgreer (Oct 16, 2003 7:02:28 PM)
how much gameplay are we talkin about here?

MaxisTheVirg (Oct 16, 2003 7:02:28 PM)
I am not kidding when I say this game is long, it is still THE SIMS and you can spend as much time as you want decorating and exploring the world, but if you are the goal oriented type, you will spend up to 40 hours finishing this game. I am super excited to challenge the community to find out how long it is taking everyone to get to the surprise end-sequence! Good Luck you guys, and most of all, have a BLAST!

MaxisKitty (Oct 16, 2003 7:02:43 PM)
That concludes our chat with Virginia on The Sims Bustin' Out on GBA, look for it to be around mid December. If you missed part of the chat you can read it all over again on the transcripts which will be posted to thesims.com website. Up next week a chat with MaxisProducer on Superstar Help. Thanks for coming!

MaxisKitty (Oct 16, 2003 7:03:11 PM)
Bye All!