Get The 411 on The Urbz
Thanks to everyone that attended our chat event today. We will be posting the transcripts on TheSims.com for those of you that couldn't make it.
The Urbz Producers Scot Amos And Cheryl Platz Give 'the 411' on the newest Sims Console game
maxiskitty (Apr 29, 2004 6:01:19 PM)
Hello and welcome to the Maxis chat. Today we will be chatting about the upcoming Sims game, The URBZ! Today we have with us Senior Producer Scot Amos and Assistant Producer Cheryl Platz!
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:02:02 PM)
Hi everyone! I'm Scot, the Sr. Producer for The URBZ on console. Glad you could all take the time to join us today.
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:02:35 PM)
Greetings everyone! I'm Cheryl, and I'm an Assistant Producer on The Urbz for GBA. Totally excited to be talking with you today!
tictactoe (Apr 29, 2004 6:03:26 PM)
what is this a game for console, what is the concept behind Sims in the city and how does it differs from other sims games?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:03:26 PM)
The URBZ: Sims in the City is the newest version in The Sims franchise made for all console platforms (PS2, Xbox, GameCube, and GBA). We wanted to take The Sims into some place new, some place we haven't been that had a rich tapestry of cultures, locations, and new things to do. The City was the newest place to go. We call The Sims who live in the city, The URBZ.
nalayzz (Apr 29, 2004 6:04:34 PM)
In the urbz what will be the main plot idea for the game
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:04:35 PM)
Simply put, the goal for The URBZ on console is to become the biggest "player" in the city. You have to improve your reputation (rep) so you can gain access to the coolest places, people, and objects throughout the city.
ii love the sims (Apr 29, 2004 6:05:22 PM)
is it for gba
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:05:22 PM)
Why yes, glad you asked! Just like last year's The Sims Bustin' Out, the GBA version takes things in a slightly different direction, allowing you direct control of your Sim - only this time in a hoppin' city, trying to thwart Daddy Bigbucks and his evil scheme to turn the city of Miniopolis into a theme park!
guest (Apr 29, 2004 6:05:59 PM)
can they be popular/ unpopular?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:05:59 PM)
For the first time, we're introducing a "Reputation" score into the game. This rep is affected by how you play, who you become friends with, things you do in the world, clothes you wear; everything. It's ALL about your rep.
vampiress_kitty (Apr 29, 2004 6:07:07 PM)
What gave you the idea of making a game all about reputation?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:07:07 PM)
Rep is something everyone knows about; hears about; and has in our lives. We all know celebrities, we all know famous people, many of us want to aspire that type of lifestyle or fame. Hence, we wanted to reflect that in The URBZ.
Guest (Apr 29, 2004 6:07:58 PM)
Will there be clubs?
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:07:59 PM)
Most definitely - you can't have a city without clubs! More than that, clubs give your Sim something to do during those late-night hours - we're all about the 24/7 experience for your Urbz this year!
pepsiazul (Apr 29, 2004 6:08:43 PM)
Why do the URBZ people look different than the orignal sims??\
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:08:44 PM)
It's important for us to give a unique style and fashion to The URBZ as they live in the city versus the suburbs. So, we let our artists push the urban theme and design in their concept sketches to help us get a unique identity for this new game.
immortaleyes14 (Apr 29, 2004 6:09:56 PM)
why is it called urbz? what happend to the sims? dont you love them still? lol. also, is there going to be a multiplayer mode or a freestyle mode?? or cheat codes?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:09:56 PM)
The URBZ are still Sims, but they live in cities. Of course we love our Urbz and our Sims. 
Yup, we'll have multiplayer on console and you can link 2 GBAs together!
Maggie (Apr 29, 2004 6:10:16 PM)
Will the be different stages of reputation?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:10:53 PM)
Absolutely! You can be famous or infamous and different groups react differently to you depending on your actions in the game.
SimsStash (Apr 29, 2004 6:11:08 PM)
Will the Xbox verions have HDTV support?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:11:08 PM)
You know it!
Rallymonkey (Apr 29, 2004 6:11:26 PM)
Will the Create a Sims on GBA give us more options?
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:11:26 PM)
Absolutely. We've totally changed the look of your GBA characters - now they're older, cooler, and you've got much more control over what they're wearing!
Lauren123 (Apr 29, 2004 6:11:30 PM)
Will this cause the sims2 to be delayed even longer?
maxiskitty (Apr 29, 2004 6:11:30 PM)
Their are diffferent teams working on Sims 2 and The URBZ. The URBZ will not effect Sims 2 release in any way.
LisVender (Apr 29, 2004 6:12:41 PM)
How will the jobs work in the Urbz for the console?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:12:41 PM)
Jobs in The URBZ are totally new this year. Your Urbz never leave the game world and go off to work; you actually control them on the job for the first time! Jobs are more action focused, such as the Sushi Chef job you get to play.
linloth (Apr 29, 2004 6:13:47 PM)
How does the Xam work? Will you be able to converse with NPCs?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:13:47 PM)
Are you Xammin' yet? We love the XAM - it's the all-in-one communications device and is used throughout the game to get text messages, access online shops, and yes, get text messages from NPCs!
outofcontrol (Apr 29, 2004 6:14:41 PM)
What gives this game the "M" rating?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:14:41 PM)
Actually, we are NOT an "M" rating, just a "T" rating (for teens). We do have a city edge to The URBZ and definitely have some jobs that are...um... a little bit shady, perhaps, but we're still a "T".
FaithFantasy (Apr 29, 2004 6:15:24 PM)
Will the URBZ appeal the same people who are fns of the Sims?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:15:24 PM)
The URBZ are meant to appeal to Sims players as well as new players looking for the types of new gameplay on console URBZ delivers.
kitkatt57 (Apr 29, 2004 6:15:43 PM)
The charactors mentioned on the site, such as Tiny, and Jade, what role do they play in the URBZ game?
koolgrl86 (Apr 29, 2004 6:16:06 PM)
what kind of options does this game have? I mean, will we play it once, get a good rep, n be bored with it?
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:16:06 PM)
Your rep isn't one-dimensional - one group of city residents could love you while another group thinks you're old news. In the Game Boy version, climbing the social ladder in a particular group is going to open up all sorts of bonuses for you - I bet you're going to try to befriend them all!
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:17:01 PM)
A couple of those characters, such as Jayde, are actually prototypes you can create and play as in The URBZ. Jayde is a starting female character. Tiny and Mazuiko are actual characters within the world you get to interact with.
Joshie_z (Apr 29, 2004 6:17:27 PM)
Can any console use the XAM??? How do you get it??
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:17:27 PM)
The XAM is actually the interface built into the game itself so all consoles have it.
Darkanjel05 (Apr 29, 2004 6:18:18 PM)
what do u mean "online shops"?
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:18:18 PM)
The online shop is a 24-hour object store that your Urbz can access from their XAM or, in the Game Boy version, from their computer.
Trasher_Slasher_Trasher (Apr 29, 2004 6:19:08 PM)
Please Please awnser me.Can you make your own Urb/Sim?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:19:08 PM)
ABSOLUTELY! We have an entirely new Create-A-Sim that's actually all in game this year! You can be walking on a street, duck into a shop in the particular district you're in, and change outfits to fit your surroundings. Or, for example, if it's time to party at a club you can switch into your club gear for nighttime! It's a 24/7 lifestyle in the city!
Guest (Apr 29, 2004 6:19:25 PM)
Please answer! is the making of the sims 2 being delayed because of Urbz?
maxiskitty (Apr 29, 2004 6:19:25 PM)
Nope. An entirely different team is working on the URBZ. It will not effect the SIms 2 in any way.
nalayzz (Apr 29, 2004 6:19:27 PM)
On GBA will you still have all the old characters such as phil o mclean ,old salty ,uncle ,dusty ,nora, exc
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:19:27 PM)
The GBA version is introducing a huge group of new characters - but we are bringing back some of the old favorites like Daddy Bigbucks and Dusty for you too! (We just couldn't say goodbye!)
GOD (Apr 29, 2004 6:19:57 PM)
the games graphics look very good. almost too good for the playstation 2. why do they look so much better this time around. why didnt they look so good on bustin out?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:19:57 PM)
We actually made an entirely new graphics engine this year and are pushing the limits on what we can do for The URBZ world. It's a massive undertaking but our team is up to the challenge.
compassionateMERCY (Apr 29, 2004 6:20:33 PM)
what is XAM
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:20:33 PM)
XAM = Xchange, Access, Messaging - it's the all-in-one PDA/phone/camera/shopping interface The URBZ use to stay hooked up in the City.
radster (Apr 29, 2004 6:21:12 PM)
i understand your very busy but could you please answer this question? what is your expected release date and do your sims live in apartment buildings or little houses?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:21:12 PM)
Fall 2004 is expected release date. The URBZ live in apartments and they have spaces they can live, work, and play in on each district.
La_Sims_Hotdate_Gurl (Apr 29, 2004 6:21:20 PM)
are the graphics any better than those of the Sims: Bustin out for GBA?
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:21:21 PM)
The Game Boy version of the Urbz will feature a vastly improved graphics engine! Keep an eye out for screenshots in the coming months - the world is much more vibrant and realistic looking. I'm in love with the new look!
kitkatt57 (Apr 29, 2004 6:22:04 PM)
So this game is basically all about "Cliques" and trying to get into the right one?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:22:04 PM)
Actually, it's about the different districts of a city and the people who live in those places and how you, as the player, gain enough rep to start influencing THEM.
Fast_Runner617 (Apr 29, 2004 6:22:40 PM)
???So that means that you have to buy things from online to play the game?!!?!!?
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:22:40 PM)
Oh no - you can still shop at normal stores if your Urbz are up during the day. 
The online store is great for those Urbz that don't keep normal hours.
Sgore (Apr 29, 2004 6:23:16 PM)
Will our Urbz still speak simish? or will there be a whole new Urbz language. I hope not. i barely know very many words in simish!
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:23:16 PM)
hahaha The URBZ will still speak in Simlish. They have a few of their own words, as they're in the city, but you'll recognize the Simlish.
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:23:23 PM)
Just to clarify - "online store" doesn't mean the game is connecting to the Internet. It's just a term we use for the store.
Najee (Apr 29, 2004 6:23:45 PM)
Is it 24/7 night time gaming or does it change from night to day?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:23:45 PM)
You got it! If you're in, for example, the Subway area during the daytime, there's a much different feeling than when you're there at midnight.
radster (Apr 29, 2004 6:24:17 PM)
so you can leave messages on your XAM and send pics to npc sims and stuff?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:24:17 PM)
Exactly. It's all in-game, of course, but it's designed to work like a next-gen PDA/cell-phone, etc.
lita (Apr 29, 2004 6:24:40 PM)
In The URBZ, do they have weather?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:24:40 PM)
We do actually! What kind of city would it be without an occasional rain shower?
vampiress_kitty (Apr 29, 2004 6:24:58 PM)
will the urbz have any pets?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:24:59 PM)
Yes! For the first time on console The URBZ get to have pets.
EJ (Apr 29, 2004 6:26:10 PM)
similar to bustin out, will the game boy version be different from the councle version?
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:26:11 PM)
Yes, somewhat different, just like last year. Our games take place in different cities, and feature different characters and gameplay.
radster (Apr 29, 2004 6:26:32 PM)
will urbz be online like bustin out
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:26:32 PM)
For this entirely new engine and design we decided to focus on the cool new reputation game, motive game, and job game and are waiting to do online with Urbz next year.
lazygirlchelsea (Apr 29, 2004 6:26:45 PM)
In the GBA versions, can you have roomates just like in Bustin' Out?
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:26:45 PM)
Definitely.
FaithFantasy (Apr 29, 2004 6:27:06 PM)
Where can I see pictures of the URBZ?
maxiskitty (Apr 29, 2004 6:27:06 PM)
http://www.urbzsims.com
LisVender (Apr 29, 2004 6:28:03 PM)
Is there a sneaky criminal element in the world of the Urbz? Can Urbz be robbed or mugged?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:28:03 PM)
Sure - it's always possible that things could "go missing" in the city...
La_Sims_Hotdate_Gurl (Apr 29, 2004 6:29:22 PM)
Since I am a buyer of the GBA (I have a dreamcast) only, is there any features of this console that the others (ps2, xbox) will not have?
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:29:22 PM)
One exciting feature exclusive to the GBA this year is our three new multiplayer head-to-head minigames! You'll be able to get your friends together and link up with Game Link cables to compete in some very cool games!
Chicky29 (Apr 29, 2004 6:30:08 PM)
Will we still have to keep up with our hygeine,sleep,hunger, etc?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:30:08 PM)
We've streamlined the motive game, but we still have them in there to deal with. When you're performing the specific jobs, though, we actually dynamically change the motive game (so you're only worried about certain motives for that job). It's a cool new way to play in this world.
Meggerz (Apr 29, 2004 6:31:40 PM)
What kind of music will be on the urbz? will it be continuous in the background or only on certain screens?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:31:40 PM)
We're exploring all kinds of options for new music in our city / urban environment. We have specific places, such as a district focused on partying and clubs, that has lots of different music pouring out of it.
Enjoji (Apr 29, 2004 6:32:15 PM)
Will The Urbz be shown at E3?
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:32:15 PM)
Definitely - the team is totally pumped, and we're hard at work putting the finishing touches on the demos for E3. Can't wait to show it off!
SociallySolarian (Apr 29, 2004 6:32:22 PM)
Are there any exotic pets or just cats and dogs?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:32:22 PM)
We have several different pets for the game... including a bulldog we'll show off at E3... but the others we're still keeping secret. Alright, one more, we KNOW you can have a pet ferret too.
Roxy_34 (Apr 29, 2004 6:32:59 PM)
When is sims day for the URBZ Web site? PLEASE RESPOND! Thanks!
MaxisShorty (Apr 29, 2004 6:32:59 PM)
The Sims Day for the Urbz will occur on Wednesdays
SlimiJimi (Apr 29, 2004 6:33:41 PM)
Will any building options be available in urbz or is it like a pre-built city?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:33:41 PM)
We still have the ability for you to access cool new furniture and decorations (based partially on your rep!) so you can change the world, buy and build all over the place, etc.
Guest (Apr 29, 2004 6:34:26 PM)
In the URBZ imfo they show only four caractors, will their be more?
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:34:26 PM)
But of course! What would a bustling city be without its residents? Just like Bustin' Out, the Urbz will have a full cast of characters.
jamesmagenta (Apr 29, 2004 6:34:29 PM)
you said the city has a different feel depending on day/night does that mean all the freaks come out at night?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:34:30 PM)
To coin a phrase? It at least means that if you go to a place, like the Sushi Bar I mentioned earlier, in the daytime, when you go back "after hours" it's now a happenin' club instead!
Guest (Apr 29, 2004 6:35:18 PM)
hi is it fun to develop the URBZ?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:35:18 PM)
Sorry to gloat, but it's awesome! I've been making games for 13 years and this game and team rocks! I feel lucky to be a part of it.
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:35:54 PM)
I agree with Scot - making this game has been a blast so far, and it's only going to get better. I only hope you have as much fun playing it as we do making it!
Guest (Apr 29, 2004 6:36:01 PM)
can the ur URB be the one doing the robbing and mugginng
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:36:01 PM)
shhh...don't tell anyone I mentioned this, but yeah, you can actually mug other people; Urbz style, of course.
La_Sims_Hotdate_Gurl (Apr 29, 2004 6:37:52 PM)
Will Ninja Nancy or whoever sold those cheats in Bustin Out still be in URBZ?
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:37:52 PM)
If you're looking for cheats, you best talk to Darius, who will be walking the streets of both the Console and GBA versions.
vampiress_kitty (Apr 29, 2004 6:38:04 PM)
what is E3/
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:38:04 PM)
E3 is the Electronic Entertainment Expo; it's the big game show once a year. Currently it's held in Los Angeles (May 11th - 14th). We get to go show off our stuff and see everybody else's!
Enjoji (Apr 29, 2004 6:38:58 PM)
Will the Urbz have their own kind of 'celebrities' that you can gaze at in awe?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:38:59 PM)
We definitely have the high-fashion models, celebrities, and other famous style people in the world... but you can also make yourself into one!
daveo89 (Apr 29, 2004 6:39:23 PM)
Will we get in trouble with the law if we mug other Urbz?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:39:23 PM)
Let's just say, don't get caught.
Roxy_34 (Apr 29, 2004 6:40:34 PM)
Will there be ratty apartments you can live in?
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:40:34 PM)
You gotta start somewhere when you move to a new city, and it's no exception in The Urbz. Both the GBA and Console versions will feature a few... seedier housing options for those so inclined.
rebecca (Apr 29, 2004 6:41:02 PM)
Is the URBZ basicly a ghetto sims? A The Sims that would appeal to people that like rap,hip hop, and pop?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:41:02 PM)
Actually, one of our top goals is to NOT limit the style to just one type or another. For example, we're pushing the feelings a city usually has - a cultural diversity so you'll see everything from jazz playing street musicains, to hip-hop clubs, folks on skateboards, exotic fashion districts, etc. We got it all!
Guest (Apr 29, 2004 6:42:22 PM)
How will the camera be? fixed or free?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:42:22 PM)
You better - dogs, for example, LOVE to find fire hydrants, lamp posts, or trees to ..er... do their business on. Otherwise, you'll be cleaning up after them in your apartment!
urbanprincess (Apr 29, 2004 6:42:39 PM)
To build our rep, will we have to "know" other high ranking URbz
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:42:39 PM)
That would certainly be a pretty smart strategy.
La_Sims_Hotdate_Gurl (Apr 29, 2004 6:44:06 PM)
So can you change your look as in change into mini fur coats?
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:44:06 PM)
Actually, The Urbz on Console is introducing clothing stores, which will allow you to buy new clothing and a new look for your characters while you're in the city - so the answer is yes!
allilev (Apr 29, 2004 6:44:09 PM)
whats gba
MaxisShorty (Apr 29, 2004 6:44:09 PM)
GBA stands for Game Boy Advance. The GBA is Nintendo's handheld gaming device.
Trasher_Slasher_Trasher (Apr 29, 2004 6:45:09 PM)
Please Please tell us some of the careers in the game.
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:45:09 PM)
Actually, careers are different in The URBZ. As you're in the city now you can move from one job to the next with ease! You choose which job you want to play by actually going to the job location and choosing to work. Each part of the city has unique jobs (and missions) for you to accomplish. So, you do get to progress and promoted at the jobs you get to play such as Sushi Chef in one neighborhood... or even the "Chop Shop" where you can strip down motorcycles in another. Okay, so now you know two jobs...
TheLivingEnd (Apr 29, 2004 6:46:36 PM)
Is there an official Maxis URBZ website for more information?
MaxisShorty (Apr 29, 2004 6:46:36 PM)
Yes, indeed, there is - http://www.urbzsims.com
luvlysimmies (Apr 29, 2004 6:46:41 PM)
so there's definitely more interactions in the urbz right? can you give us a few?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:46:41 PM)
We're making ALL NEW animations, objects, and interactions for The URBZ. We already mentioned "Mugging" above... you can also do unique socials with different cultures to try and impress them and gain rep; such as the crowd at some of the bars LOVES when you "blow fire".
Enjoji (Apr 29, 2004 6:47:05 PM)
Will there be like a 'free play' mode, or does that not exist anymore?
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:47:05 PM)
We know it's very important for you to have the ability to play freely with your characters - so we'll be making sure you have that option this year on all platforms (PS2/Xbox/GC/GBA)
simmy2sky (Apr 29, 2004 6:47:21 PM)
can the sims go inside the subway??
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:47:21 PM)
You know it - there's an entire area in the subway to explore and even work at!
melissa6592 (Apr 29, 2004 6:48:15 PM)
do u need simcity 2 play this game
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:48:15 PM)
Nope.
fkheduck (Apr 29, 2004 6:48:54 PM)
so what kind of places will they live in? can they get like huge penthouse suites and stuff?
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:48:54 PM)
All kinds - From ratty apartments to posh pads in the sky.
lazygirlchelsea (Apr 29, 2004 6:49:17 PM)
Can the clothes you wear allow you to talk to certain people?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:49:18 PM)
Yeah, exactly. Different cultures in the city want different things or react in specific ways based on stuff you wear, actions you perform, etc. You also want to set the trends not just blend in so you can get the NPCs in the world to start wearing the cool stuff YOU have on.
URBZ_rox (Apr 29, 2004 6:49:38 PM)
So they have cell-phones now!Can they do anything besides call people?;-)Like can they text message?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:49:38 PM)
Absolutely!
Guest (Apr 29, 2004 6:50:00 PM)
WHATS CONSOLE///////////????????????????
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:50:00 PM)
Console = any of the game systems such as PS2, Xbox, GameCube, and GBA.
Roxy_34 (Apr 29, 2004 6:50:25 PM)
Can you drive? Can yuo get on a train to other URBZ Districts?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:50:25 PM)
You actually use the Subway to get all around the city to the different districts.
fkheduck (Apr 29, 2004 6:50:56 PM)
will the city be modeled after a real city like New York?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:50:56 PM)
The design for the city is based on MANY different cities, not just one in particular.
Guest (Apr 29, 2004 6:51:42 PM)
so are you going to keep udpates on URBZ?
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:51:42 PM)
Definitely. We know you want more information, and there are some exciting things planned for the months ahead. Keep your eyes on http://www.urbzsims.com/ for all of the latest, greatest information!
LisVender (Apr 29, 2004 6:51:45 PM)
Will non-player Urbz react to a player Urb wearing some neat threads, or behaving in a cool way?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:51:46 PM)
Exactly - first time through a new district, people may not know you so they ignore you. You come back, dressed in the right gear, a higher rep, now they wave at you or come over to say hi, etc.
Meggerz (Apr 29, 2004 6:53:30 PM)
What are some activities to do while not working?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:53:30 PM)
We have a new skill system and even new power-social system that, like the new job systems, that you can play as twitch games where you actually perform the job, skill training, or socials through button pressing. There are also missions you can go on.
.+*simlover*+. (Apr 29, 2004 6:54:16 PM)
how many different districs are there?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:54:17 PM)
There are 9 different districts in the city; plus 3 giant apartments you can unlock. Each district also has a place on it you can live! 12 places in all.
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:55:08 PM)
On GBA, we've got 5 districts - like Urbania and the Sim Quarter - and most locations have several apartments to choose from.
GOD (Apr 29, 2004 6:55:34 PM)
have the control system changed? will it be easier to move around the map? will there be more zooming and wieving options?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:55:34 PM)
We're adapting the controls to the new layouts for the city and new games we have in the jobs, skills, and power-socials. We're very happy with our new controls.
SEKhorselover (Apr 29, 2004 6:55:41 PM)
Can you get married or have a "roomie"?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:55:41 PM)
You bet!
nalayzz (Apr 29, 2004 6:56:54 PM)
what is a twitch game
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:56:54 PM)
A "twitch" game is the term we use for quick, exciting, fast-paced games that usually involve a little controller skill (and maybe a little button mashing too.)
TheLivingEnd (Apr 29, 2004 6:57:07 PM)
Will the sims that are dressed rather.... dorky.... get teased by the sims that are dressed in what they think as cool?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:57:07 PM)
We do have some tease actions in there... but it's all about rep so if you're really nasty to one group, they may just ignore you or even be a bit hostile towards you. We want rep to always be the driving way the world responds to you.
maxiskitty (Apr 29, 2004 6:57:38 PM)
5 more minutes left in the chat
La_Sims_Hotdate_Gurl (Apr 29, 2004 6:58:07 PM)
So basically you can't talk to Bad Bobby (just making up names here) without wearing a leather jacket?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:58:07 PM)
May not be quite that one-for-one, but you're 100% on target that we want the people in the city to have distinct lifestyles and cultures and you have to find ways to break into that group and then influence that group.
cck (Apr 29, 2004 6:58:40 PM)
will the urbz for game boy be the seaqule?
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:58:40 PM)
Yes, the GBA version of The Urbz is the sequel to last year's GBA version of The Sims Bustin' Out - but there's lots of exciting new features, like 9 all-new job minigames and the Rep system.
Jilababe (Apr 29, 2004 6:59:12 PM)
How do you unlock the apartments?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:59:12 PM)
It's all about rep - the higher your rep, the more money you make, then you can get access to cooler, newer places.
cck (Apr 29, 2004 6:59:14 PM)
will the voloci rooster return
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 6:59:14 PM)
All I know is that the Veloci-rooster has a mind of his own.
rebecca (Apr 29, 2004 6:59:28 PM)
At work can you mug people...like the boss.
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 6:59:28 PM)
Actually, you can!
FaithFantasy (Apr 29, 2004 7:00:20 PM)
So, no unlikely friendships between a geek and a celebrity?
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 7:00:21 PM)
It's not out of the question - but it might impact the way the rest of your friends see you.
Enjoji (Apr 29, 2004 7:00:30 PM)
Is one district 'easier' to gain rep than the other, or are they all the same?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 7:00:30 PM)
When you start the game you choose where you want to first live; it's easier to boost your rep there with those folks and gets harder as you spread out through the city.
Meggerz (Apr 29, 2004 7:00:47 PM)
Will you have to walk everywhere or will there be cars or cabs or busses available?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 7:00:48 PM)
We use the Subway to get you around the city to the different districts.
fkheduck (Apr 29, 2004 7:01:23 PM)
what kind of skins will there be? like will you be able to make like a punk/goth with like liberty spikes and spiked bracelets and stuff?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 7:01:23 PM)
awesome - we have SO many new styles of clothing, options to modify the physical shape of your Urbz, add piercings, add tattos, everything - you can make just about anyone.
katie522 (Apr 29, 2004 7:01:23 PM)
Will our URBZ be able to walk into any building lining the street, because in a few games i have played there are just building with doors and it is very annoying
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 7:01:23 PM)
That's something we're paying special attention to on the GBA version - this year's locations are much denser, and almost every door leads to something...
Guest (Apr 29, 2004 7:02:21 PM)
when will this be hitting stores?
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 7:02:21 PM)
The URBZ: Sims in the City is due out this Fall (2004) on PS2, Xbox, GameCube, and GBA.
Roxy_34 (Apr 29, 2004 7:02:39 PM)
Will there be a BBS for Urbz please!
maxiskitty (Apr 29, 2004 7:02:40 PM)
http://www.urbzsims.com
maxiskitty (Apr 29, 2004 7:03:11 PM)
There is no BBS there at this time, but when one is added it will be at that location
anmni (Apr 29, 2004 7:03:46 PM)
i just went to the web site it cool.the sims looks so great. how did u do it
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 7:03:46 PM)
Thanks! That's great to hear! We're thrilled with the new direction and takin' our URBZ into the city.
MaxisCheryl (Apr 29, 2004 7:04:48 PM)
Thanks for taking the time to talk with us, everyone - it's been grand, and there were some great questions. Your excitement makes us even more enthusiastic about the game!
maxiskitty (Apr 29, 2004 7:05:01 PM)
That about wraps up the time we have today. Thank you all for coming! Check the Sims site for the transcripts soon!
MaxisScotchmo (Apr 29, 2004 7:05:08 PM)
Thanks folks, this was fun! Glad you all made it!