Of course, being an Aspyr game, this add-on pack is easy to install. Even though it has two CDs, insert the first one, run the installer, and follow the step by step instructions. Very simple.

The Sims: Unleashed changes the way you normally view your neighborhood. Instead of just a few lots for houses, it's been expanded to include the entire town (called Old town), a farmer's market, many additional housing lots, pets play parks, and more. Here, you can easily visit various houses, community lots, and even Vacation or Hot Date places if you have those packs installed.

But the big draw is the pets. You can choose from dogs, cats, turtles, iguanas, birds, and exotic fish. Each of these pets has their own characteristics. Some have to be trained, and can be played with, while others would rather be left alone. Choose a pet that best serves your lifestyle.

If you decide to get a puppy, get ready for aggressive training. You will have to housebreak your pet, or it will make a mess on your favorite carpet. You can also train it to do tricks, and you must teach it to be obedient. Soon, you will be playing fetch or wrestling with man's best friend.

Not a dog person? Then a cat might suit you better. Cats are already housebroken, although they do need a litter box. Cats can't learn as many tricks as dogs, and are more independent, just like real cats. Also, you may not want to get a bird and a cat in the same house, as a Sylvester and Tweedy episode might ensue.

A different class of pets includes the turtles, iguanas, and birds. You can play with these pets, talk to the birds, and feed them on a regular basis, but they won't learn tricks. You won't need to dedicate as much time to these pets, so a busy Sim may enjoy them more.

Finally, the exotic fish are there for the really busy Sims. You can't play with the fish, but must feed them and clean their tank. You can also look at them, but besides that, the fish are just there.

Of course, with these new pets comes the items you must purchase for them. A fish bowl, bird cage, or turtle tank is needed for some of the pets. While others such as the cat or dog may need a bed, litter box, dog house, or scratching pole. Make your pets happy with the cool new items in The Sims: Unleashed.

But this add-on is more than just pets. Your Sims will have five new careers to choose from. Furthermore, you can choose to become a gardener and grow your own food to eat or sell at the farmer's market. A nice way to stay at home and earn some extra cash. But if you do decide to plant a garden, watch out for those pesky rabbits, they'll eat all of your prize vegetables. The best way to rid yourself of rabbits is to get a cat who will chase them away.

One of the coolest things about Unleashed is how it integrates with other The Sims expansion packs. Like I said earlier, Hot Date and Vacation spots will be available in the neighborhood view. But you can also do fun things like bring your pets on vacation. This can add great fun, or great headaches, to your time away from the house.

While the game is stable, the speediness is not always there. It really slows down when you leave your house to go to the farmer's market, pet shop, or other neighborhood place. But this doesn't make the game any less playable, it just takes a little getting used to.

This add-on package is a must have for any Sims fan. Pets add a whole new dimension to your Sims' lives; one that will keep this franchise going strong.

Pros	Cons
Pets! The neighborhood has been enlarged Five new careers Over 100 new objects Superb integration with other expansions	Very slow loading time Slow game play in neighborhood shops Slightly harder to keep the family going
9/10 stars