The Sims 3 'Ambitions' Review: Fun with New Jobs, New Hobbies, New Traits

The Sims 3, an incredibly popular simulation game from EA Games, has taken the implementation of new features up a notch with "Ambitions." While some Expansion Packs (EP) from the Sims 2 collection left fans feeling disappointed by a minimal amount of new features, EA is 3-for-3 with the latest additions to the Sims franchise. Unlike "World Adventures, aka EP 1, "Ambitions"(EP 2) puts the primary focus back at home in by way of new jobs, called "professions." These are basically hobbies with higher income potential. In addition, Sims 3 EP3 adds the perk of formal "jobs" for already-existing activities, allowing Sims characters to become Gardeners, Fishermen and more.

One of the best features of "Ambitions" is EA Games' ability to think outside the box. Instead of adding new-but typical-careers, Sims can now join unorthodox professions; Ghost Hunter and Tattoo Artist included in these new positions. Alternatively, Sims can become Firemen, Architects and Private Investigators-three fairly common professions in mainstream TV and media. As with jobs implemented in the core Sims 3 game and "World Adventures," the new professions have their own "lifetime wishes," such as reaching level 10 in the Ghost Hunter track.

One fantastic feature which is new to Sims 3 is the addition of character "traits." These personality elements add effects in-game, whether positive or negative, which can greatly enhance-or deter-your Sims' progression through their career, hobbies and their lives in general. Many jobs--and now professions--can benefit from a well-placed Sim trait; a Sculptor or Tattoo Artist with the "Artistic" trait has a much better chance of successfully producing tattoos on their roommates, as my Sims character learned first-hand. Never, ever ask your Sims-buddy with no artistic talent to add a butterfly to your back.

The new traits are: Dramatic-think fainting spells-and Perceptive, Eco-friendly, Born Salesperson, Eccentric and Savvy Sculptor; twice as many new traits than the "World Adventures" addition. The Sims 3 "Ambitions" also added seven new "Lifetime Rewards," perks or abilities which are purchased with points earned by fulfilling wishes and other means. In keeping with the theme of the expansion, these include several salesperson rewards, inventor and sculptor abilities, and even a robot-oriented reward at a whopping 40,000 reward points-quite a steep price, for sure. The Sims Resource, one of my favorite Sims fan sites, has an extensive Wiki with additional information on the "Ambitions" features.

I was surprised to discover that certain new features, namely the inventor and sculptor abilities, are not actual professions. Although I have not discovered all of the tricks to "Ambitions" yet, nor have I play tested any of the numerous cheats available, I have yet to discover a way to turn inventing, tattooing or sculpting into a true profession; registering as self-employed seems to be as close as it gets, instead of Sims being able to check the computer, newspaper or town location for positions.

"Ambitions" features less new clothing, hairstyles, furniture and décor than previous Expansion Packs, but the high volume of new content still makes it a worth-while investment for any The Sims enthusiasts. I was eagerly anticipating this addition, most notably for the Ghost Hunter profession, and I was not disappointed; now, if they would only implement Sims Pets and Weather again, as they did for the Sims 2 series, I will be content-for now.

I give this video game expansion a solid 4/5 stars rating, and I would recommend it to anyone willing to shell out $39.99 on their Sims' happiness. The game carries an ESRB rating of Teen for "crude humor, sexual themes, violence" according to the official Sims 3 store page, and "Ambitions" is available for PC with plans for console implementation later this year. Fans must have the base Sims 3 game installed--but not the "World Adventures" EP-to play, and a digital download is available in the EA store.

Sources:
EA Store, "The Sims 3 Ambitions"
The Sims Resource, "The Sims 3 Wiki"