Electronic Arts today announced that The Urbz: Sims in the City, the latest franchise from the celebrated studio behind The Sims, is in development for the Nintendo DS.

EA, in conjunction with Griptonite Games, is developing the game in Redwood City, CA and is scheduled for release in November 2004.

The Urbz: Sims in the City will benefit from the unique Nintendo DS capabilities by offering players a wireless multi-player mode, touch-screen input a multitude of in-game features that are not available in any other version of the game. Exclusive features for the Nintendo DS version include 24 objects, a unique touch-screen menu system, 5 minigames, 7 characters and 8 pet species that players can create with the special in-game 'gene manipulator'.

"We're thrilled that this new franchise is the first from Electronic Arts to illustrate the power of the Nintendo DS," said Sinjin Bain, Vice President and Executive Producer. "On the Nintendo DS, we are able to do things with The Urbz: Sims in the City that we could not do with any other console. Like the system itself, this game is completely unique. Never before have Sims players been able to unleash their alter egos in an urban environment - complete with the sounds, scenes and settings of the city."