MySims Racing

The headlines may be all about EA’s highly anticipated The Sims 3, but the publisher’s equally successful MySims spin-off series continues to grow.

The latest games to join the franchise is MySims Racing, EA’s take on Nintendo’s mega hit Mario Kart. Yet there’s more to the game than just racing around, with plenty of things for gamers to customise and create.

“There’s loads of classic karting fun to be had but there’s also much more to enjoy in MySims Racing,” says product manager Kerri West.

“As with all MySims titles, creativity and customisation play a key role. For example, players can create their own MySims character from all sorts of weird and wacky looks and spend time decking out their wheels with funky accessories and a cool paint job.

“But this customisation is not all about aesthetics. Players must complete challenges to earn and unlock new parts for their racing machine. Mixing and matching engines, tyres, suspension systems and more is the way to max-out each vehicle’s performance and the true competitors can use further strategy by mastering the art of drift and boost control.

“There’s also a story mode focused on reinvigorating the once great racing city of Speedville by completing missions and winning championships.”

On top of an array of gameplay modes and options, EA is also planning a full marketing campaign. This includes significant TV spend aimed at tweens and housewives, print placements within gaming and tween lifestyle press, as well as online activity.

The publisher is also planning a huge hands-on trial via nationwide consumer promotion and a tour within retail outlets. The game will have a sustained presence throughout the summer holidays to cater to the casual Nintendo consumer.

Expect kids and casual gamers to hunt down MySims when it hits shelves this month.