Computer Games Online recently managed to hook up with Mike McCormick, a designer for the upcoming expansion pack for The Sims, the ever-popular people simulation. Titled Hot Date, this expansion pack will give Sims the ability to date, mingle, and actively pursue various romantic escapades. To aid in these relationships, a whole new downtown area is also being implemented, where players can build popular dating spots such as restaurants, shopping centers, and ice cream parlors.

According to McCormick, Hot Date is largely a compilation of ideas submitted by Sims fans asking for ways to leave the house. He notes that much of the design is a collaborative effort, spawning such ideas as old, prudish Miss Crumplebottom, who has a habit of nagging Sims on inappropriate behavior.

Hot Date also expands on the kissing and hugging currently present in The Sims:

In 1.0 there was pretty much just one sort of kiss. In Hot Date there are more than six. We wanted to provide a lot more depth and options. The kisses range from a simple peck on the cheek to a fiery dip kiss. We did similar expansions on many of the old social options. Hot Date provides four types of hugs of increasing intimacy that unlock as your relationship with another Sim progresses.

The PC version of Hot Date is scheduled to ship sometime this month. Though a Mac version has yet to be announced, the popularity of The Sims and strong support for current Mac versions bodes well for Hot Date on the Mac.

CG Online: Matchmaker, make me a match

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