Who got urbz?

Simulated people be keepin' it real.

Electronic Arts today announced that The URBZ (*working title) is in development for the PlayStation 2 computer entertainment system, the Xbox video game system from Microsoft, the Nintendo GameCube, and the Nintendo Game Boy Advance. For the first time, Sims are living in the city where reputation (rep) is everything. Players will custom-create these new Sims, called Urbz, by customizing their unique style and building their status to become the biggest "player" in the city.

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The game's style captures the pulse of the action-packed downtown, ritzy shopping districts, Bohemian artist workshops, and a gritty subway station. Players create their Urbz using a new character customisation engine to show off attitude and unique style, as well as signature "bling" such as tattoos and nose rings. Players build relationships to increase their rep, influence other Urbz, and gain access to city districts, jobs, and lifestyles. Gaining access to all districts in the city, being able to live in any district, live any lifestyle, and become the biggest "player" in the city is the ultimate goal.

The URBZ will support the Sony EyeToy. Players will download their image into the game with the Sony EyeToy and as their rep grows; their image or their Urbz image will begin to be reflected in the game.

Ever deeper travels in hyperreality.