Electronic Arts have announced that they are shipping The Sims for Xbox and GameCube in Europe. The official press release is below.

CHERTSEY, UK, March 25th, 2003 � Electronic Arts (Nasdaq: ERTS) today announced that The SimsTM for the XboxTM video game system from Microsoft and the Nintendo GameCubeTM has shipped. Players can create and control their Sims like never before with level-based gameplay, two-player modes, and dynamic 3D graphics.

"The unique and challenging experience of The Sims is now available on all next- generation console platforms," said Sinjin Bain, Vice President and Executive Producer of the game at EA's Maxis studio. "After the wildly successful launch of The Sims on the PlayStation� 2, we are excited to bring the zany and creative gameplay of The Sims to Xbox and GameCube players."

Now Xbox and Nintendo GameCube players can create and explore in the entirely new 3D world of The Sims. The Sims for the Xbox and the Nintendo GameCube features an all new level-based mode called "Get a Life," where players can start with just one Sim and move him or her through life's big moments including moving out of Mom's house, getting a job, and having a family. As players progress through new challenges, they will unlock console exclusive objects. A love tub and aromamaster are some of the wacky items your Sims will discover and use to spice up their lives. Both versions will also feature the classic Sim-style open- ended gameplay.

Players can interact with a cast of madcap characters that are exclusive to the next- generation console platforms, including a Monkey Butler that can be unlocked to serve the every whim of your Sim. Customising the appearance of a Sim reaches a whole new level of detail with accessories such as stylish hats, trendy glasses, cool hairstyles, and an enormous variety of clothing options. Unique to the console versions, players will be able to make changes to their Sims appearance mid-game with the unlockable vanity mirror. In addition, players can play The Sims with or against each other in challenging two-player modes.

The Sims for the Xbox and the Nintendo GameCube were developed by the company's Walnut Creek- based MaxisTM studio in conjunction with Austin- based, Edge of Reality, Ltd. and carries an ELSPA rating of 15+. It is available in stores now for a recommended retail price of �39.99. More information on The Sims for the Xbox and the Nintendo GameCube can be found at http://www.thesimsconsole.com

The Sims skyrocketed to the top of the charts when it began shipping to stores in February 2000 and quickly became a universal gaming and cultural phenomenon. The Sims was the best selling PC game of both 2000 and 2001 and is now the best selling PC game of all time. Translated into 16 different languages, The Sims has inspired five expansion packs; The SimsTM Livin' it Up, The SimsTM House Party, The SimsTM Hot Date, The SimsTM On Holiday and The SimsTM Unleashed. Combined sales for the franchise have topped 24 million units life-to- date. For more information on The Sims franchise titles, visit http://www.thesims.com.