As was announced with the release of Pets, the next EP for Sims 2 is Seasons. I got a sneak peek at Maxis and actually got to play the game. After the tour, we went to a large room that had computers along the walls, and a central seating area with two large screens in the front. We were treated to an introduction of the expansion on the big screens. And then we got to play!

Seasons gives the Sims more fun and varied interactions at home; unlike many of the other EPs, your Sims don’t have to go to a different location for most of the new activities. Each season brings new outdoor options, and I had a great time exploring, there was a lot to see.

There are additions to the summer activities our Sims already enjoy – including new rounded pool edges and pool walls, a slide, and a game to play in the pool. Have fun playing catch, throwing water balloons, or chasing fireflies. Beware of sunburn!

Now Sims can garden – year round with a greenhouse, if you wish. There are plots where various vegetables can be grown, and then put into the refrigerator for future consumption. Plant fruit trees, and then create energy drinks and other potions with the fruits of your labors.

Sims can also head over to the lake and go fishing, and bring some tasty fish back to add to the food choices in the fridge. The more they fish, the better they’ll get at it, earning fishing badges. Mmmmm, fresh grilled fish.

Enough of the fair-weather activities, winter brings it’s own fun with snowmen, snowball fights, snow angels, ice skating, and if you’re lucky, a visit from a new npc. The Sims will automatically bundle up in their new outdoor wear as they go in and out of their homes. When snow falls, it slowly accumulates in layers on things – not just on the ground (where you Sims might find themselves up to their knees in snow), but also on fence posts and other surfaces. This behavior will work for both Maxis content and custom content, with no changes required! Thanks to the team for thinking about our custom content!

This EP also includes 6 new careers, so if your Sims are looking for some new jobs, they’ll be very happy. The careers are: Journalism, Education, Gamer, Adventure, Music, and Law. Each career also has its own career reward item, so go for the gold.

(The Seasons EP is expected to ship Feb 27, 2007.)

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Read Part 2 below for more gameplay details