The highly anticipated release date for Sims 3 has finally arrived! After months of waiting, fans can now get their hands on the latest installment in EA's critically acclaimed life simulation series.

For those who may have been living under a rock (pun intended), The Sims 3 promises to take the franchise to new heights with its open-ended gameplay and addictive sandbox-style fun. Players will once again step into the shoes of a lovable Sim character, navigating the ups and downs of everyday life in an all-new, more expansive world.

As soon as you boot up your copy (or download it via digital distribution if that's more your thing), you'll be greeted by none other than Maxis' signature addictive gameplay. Create-a-Sim has been overhauled for Sims 3, giving players even greater control over every aspect of their Simmies' appearance - from hairdo to skin tone and beyond!

But it doesn't stop there! The Sims 3 also introduces a host of exciting new features designed specifically with hardcore fans in mind. Want to build the perfect dream home? With the introduction of Build Mode, anything is possible! Or perhaps you're more into socializing? Then look no further than the all-new Relationships system - romance will never have felt so real!

And let's not forget about the Sims themselves...literally speaking that is. The latest iteration features an entirely new cast of characters each with their own unique personalities, aspirations and motivations waiting to be discovered.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your copy today (or download it straight away if that suits better) because when it comes down to it - this isn't just another Sims game...it's THE Sims experience like no other!

Release Date: July 26th 2009

Platforms: PC, Mac, PlayStation3, Xbox360

Sims 3 release date