Upcoming features for The Sims Online

Electronic Arts has today released details on some of the new features that are planned for The Sims Online in the near future. Although the game has been available for only a few weeks, there are already around 90,000 players paying $9.99 a month to live out virtual lives in the game's online world, according to a recent Reuters report. EA's Maxis Studio will further encourage players to make the world their own through the introduction of additional objects and features in the coming months.

The first additions to the world of The Sims Online will take the form of new objects, including roulette and blackjack tables and video poker and slot machines for any sims who enjoy gambling or wish to set up their own casino. Also coming soon is a band object that will allow players to take to the stage with a guitar, drum, keyboard, or trumpet and win money in a team-based memory game.

With existing players already setting up their own businesses in The Sims Online--including restaurants, radio stations, and a gnome factory--one of the features being worked on right now will facilitate a secure trading and sales environment in which sims will be able trade with each other and, if they're smart, make a few simoleons in the process.

One of the biggest additions to The Sims Online will come when players are able to create their own objects and outfits in the game--a feature that has already proved immensely popular in previous incarnations of The Sims. No exact dates for the availability of these new features have been released by EA at this time, but we'll be sure to let you know when they do.

For more information on The Sims Online, check out our full review of the game.