View source for The Sims 2: Pets



{{Infobox video game
| title = The Sims 2: Pets
| image = TS2P cover art.png
| developer = [[Maxis]]<br>[[Full Fat]] <small>(DS)</small><br>[[Behaviour Interactive|Artificial Mind & Movement]] <small>(GBA)</small>
| publisher = {{ubl|[[Electronic Arts]]|[[Aspyr Media]] (Mac)}}
| series = ''[[The Sims]]''
| platforms = [[Microsoft Windows]]<br>[[Mac OS X]]<br>[[PlayStation 2]]<br>[[PlayStation Portable]]<br>[[GameCube]]<br>[[Game Boy Advance]]<br>[[Nintendo DS]]<br>[[Wii]]
| released = '''Microsoft Windows''', '''GameCube''', '''PlayStation 2'''{{vgrelease|NA|October 17, 2006|EU|October 20, 2006|AUS|October 26, 2006}}'''Nintendo DS'''<br />{{vgrelease|AUS|October 26, 2006|EU|October 27, 2006|NA|October 31, 2006}}'''Mac OS X'''{{vgrelease|NA|November 1, 2006}}'''Game Boy Advance'''{{vgrelease|NA|November 7, 2006|AUS|November 16, 2006|EU|November 17, 2006}}'''PlayStation Portable'''{{vgrelease|NA|December 14, 2006|AUS|December 14, 2006|EU|December 15, 2006}}'''Wii'''{{vgrelease|NA|June 12, 2007|EU|June 22, 2007|AUS|June 28, 2007}}
| genre = [[Life simulation game|Life simulation]]
| modes = [[Single-player video game|Single-player]]
}}

'''''The Sims 2: Pets''''' is an installment in the [[life simulation]] video game series ''[[The Sims]]''. It was released as an [[expansion pack]] for ''[[The Sims 2]]'' on [[Microsoft Windows]] and [[MacOS|Mac OS X]], while it was released as a stand-alone title on consoles. All versions were developed by Maxis and published by Electronic Arts on October 17, 2006. The expansion pack adds domestic animals to the game, allowing Sims to own cats, dogs, and other species. Players can customize the appearance and personality of their pets, which are able to learn tricks and work jobs. The stand-alone console games maintained the open-ended [[sandbox game|sandbox]] gameplay of the series; the handheld versions had more structure, including [[role-playing video game]] elements.

The game received mixed to positive reviews from critics, who praised the realism and design of the pets, but criticized the lack of content and narrow focus of the game. The PC version was compared unfavorably to previous expansion packs, while the console and handheld versions were criticized for their limitations and simplicity.

==Background and development==
''[[The Sims]]'' is a franchise of [[life simulation game]]s developed by [[Maxis]] and published by [[Electronic Arts]]. It has sold over 200 million copies amongst all platforms and installments, making it one of the [[List of best-selling video game franchises|best-selling video game franchises of all time]].<ref name="techspot">{{cite web|url=https://www.techspot.com/article/2497-the-sims/|title=The Sims: 22 Years and Counting|work=Techspot|last=Shoam|first=Amir|date=25 July 2022|access-date=13 September 2023|archive-date=7 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230907082800/https://www.techspot.com/article/2497-the-sims/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[The Sims 2]]'', sequel to [[The Sims (video game)|the original]], was released on September 14, 2004. It expanded upon the original game's features, introducing elements such as an aspiration system based around short-term and long-term goals, expanded character and neighborhood customization, and the ability for Sims to raise families, age, and progress through generations.<ref name="time">{{cite web|url=https://www.time.com/time/techtime/200411/videogames/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20050204093219/http://www.time.com/time/techtime/200411/videogames/|url-status=dead|title=TIME Tech: Top 10 Video Games|last=Taylor|first=Chris|date=2004|archive-date=4 February 2005}}</ref><ref name="ign1">{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2004/09/11/the-sims-2-review|title=The Sims 2 Review|work=IGN|last=Adams|first=Dan|date=11 September 2004|access-date=13 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040914010501/http://pc.ign.com/articles/546/546893p1.html|archive-date=14 September 2004|url-status=live}}</ref>

All main entries in the series have had multiple [[expansion pack]]s, which add further gameplay options. Rather than being relatively simple [[downloadable content]], expansion packs for the first three games in the ''Sims'' series substantially expanded upon the base game's life simulation; [[Kieron Gillen]], writing for ''[[Eurogamer]]'' in 2005, stated the first game's expansions "could have been expanded [...] into games of their own" and argued their complexity was a component in why ''The Sims'' had few competitors in its genre.<ref name="techspot" /><ref name="eurogamer1">{{cite web|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/r-sims2university-pc|title=The Sims 2 University|work=Eurogamer|last=Gillen|first=Kieron|date=8 May 2005|access-date=13 September 2023|archive-date=7 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230907072608/https://www.eurogamer.net/r-sims2university-pc|url-status=live}}</ref> Eight expansion packs were released for ''The Sims 2'' between 2005 and 2008.<ref name="techspot" /><ref name="lifewire">{{cite web|url=https://www.lifewire.com/sims-2-expansion-packs-839703|title=Order of The Sims 2 and The Sims 3 Expansion Packs|work=Lifewire|last=Marchelletta|first=Courtney|date=3 March 2020|access-date=13 September 2023|archive-date=7 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230907085920/https://www.lifewire.com/sims-2-expansion-packs-839703|url-status=live}}</ref>

''The Sims 2: Pets'', the fourth expansion pack for the game, was announced in late July 2006. Unlike previous entries, stand-alone console versions were announced alongside the PC expansion pack; stand-alone versions of ''Pets'' were made for the [[PlayStation 2]], [[PlayStation Portable]], [[GameCube]], [[Game Boy Advance]], and [[Nintendo DS]].<ref name="ign2">{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/07/27/the-sims-2-pets-announced|title=The Sims 2: Pets Announced|work=IGN|last=Burnes|first=Andrew|date=28 July 2006|access-date=13 September 2023|archive-date=18 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230918011905/https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/07/27/the-sims-2-pets-announced|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="eurogamer2">{{cite web|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/news280706sims2pets|title=EA announces The Sims 2 Pets|work=Eurogamer|last=Gibson|first=Ellie|date=28 July 2006|access-date=13 September 2023|archive-date=18 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230918011907/https://www.eurogamer.net/news280706sims2pets|url-status=live}}</ref> It was released on October 17, 2006.<ref name="billboard">{{cite magazine|title=Bits & Briefs: Singing in Simlish|magazine=Billboard|author=Staff writer|volume=118|issue=34|page=12|date=26 August 2006}}</ref> A [[macOS]] port of the PC expansion pack was released three weeks later by [[Aspyr Media]].<ref name="macworld">{{cite web|url=https://www.macworld.com/article/182291/pets-2.html|title=Aspyr ships The Sims 2: Pets|work=Macworld|last=Cohen|first=Peter|date=6 November 2006|access-date=13 September 2023|archive-date=18 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230918011909/https://www.macworld.com/article/182291/pets-2.html|url-status=live}}</ref> Console ports were released for the [[Wii]] in June 2007<ref name="ign3">{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2007/04/20/the-sims-2-pets-heads-to-wii|title=The Sims 2: Pets heads to Wii|work=IGN|last=Bozon|first=Mark|date=21 April 2007|access-date=13 September 2023|archive-date=18 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230918011909/https://www.ign.com/articles/2007/04/20/the-sims-2-pets-heads-to-wii|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="ign4">{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2007/06/18/the-sims-2-pets-review|title=The Sims 2: Pets Review: It's late to the party, but still a solid effort|work=IGN|last=Bozon|first=Mark|date=19 June 2007|access-date=13 September 2023|archive-date=29 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230729210011/https://www.ign.com/articles/2007/06/18/the-sims-2-pets-review|url-status=live}}</ref> and the [[N-Gage (service)|N-Gage]] mobile gaming service on June 18, 2008.<ref name="pocketgamer1">{{cite web|url=https://www.pocketgamer.com/the-sims-2-pets/the-sims-2-pets-goes-live-on-n-gage/|title=The Sims 2 Pets goes live on N-Gage|work=Pocket Gamer|last=Dredge|first=Stuart|date=18 June 2008|access-date=13 September 2023|archive-date=18 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230918011903/https://www.pocketgamer.com/the-sims-2-pets/the-sims-2-pets-goes-live-on-n-gage/|url-status=live}}</ref>

''Pets'' was inspired by ''[[The Sims: Unleashed]]'', a similar expansion for the first game. ''Unleashed'' was the highest-selling PC game of 2002, and substantial player demand existed for a ''Sims 2'' equivalent.<ref name="gamespot1">{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/qanda-sims-executive-producer-rod-humble/1100-6154889/|title=Q&A: Sims executive producer Rod Humble|work=GameSpot|last=Surette|first=Tim|date=1 August 2006|access-date=15 September 2023|archive-date=6 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230406205448/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/qanda-sims-executive-producer-rod-humble/1100-6154889/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="gamespot2">{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/best-selling-pc-games-for-2002/1100-2909794/|title=Best-selling PC games for 2002|work=GameSpot|last=Calvert|first=Justin|date=29 January 2003|access-date=15 September 2023|archive-date=16 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161116130236/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/best-selling-pc-games-for-2002/1100-2909794/|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Will Wright (game designer)|Will Wright]], the head of the ''Sims'' series prior to that point, stepped back to focus on his next project ''[[Spore (2008 video game)|Spore]]''; [[Rod Humble]] became senior producer. Humble stated in an interview with ''[[GameSpot]]'' that the choice to release stand-alone console versions, a first for ''Sims 2'' expansions, was based on the expansion's "strong theme". Console versions of ''The Sims'' had previously had disappointing sales numbers compared to the PC entries, but were "back-catalog sellers" that maintained sales over time rather than falling precipitously from a peak. Handheld entries, according to Humble, tended to outsell traditional consoles. Humble ascribed this to "the private-versus-public experiences that are fun about the ''Sims''", differentiating between more solitary narrative gameplay and more publicizable elements, such as the game's architectural design capabilities. He stated that the architectural elements of the game would be a focus for the ''Pets'' console releases.<ref name="gamespot1" />

==Gameplay==

===PC version===
[[File:TS2P PC gameplay.png|thumb|upright=1.2|The Create-a-Cat screen on the PC version of ''Pets'']]
''The Sims 2: Pets'' allows Sims to own cats, dogs, birds, and a fictional [[guinea pig]]-like species known as womrats.<ref name="gamespy1">{{cite web|url=http://pc.gamespy.com/pc/the-sims-2-pets-/742911p1.html|title=The Sims 2 Pets|work=GameSpy|last=Kosak|first=Dave|date=31 October 2006|access-date=15 September 2023|archive-date=5 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150905233014/http://pc.gamespy.com/pc/the-sims-2-pets-/742911p1.html|url-status=live}}</ref>{{NoteTag|Unless otherwise specified, references to pets refer specifically to cats and dogs.<ref name="prima1">{{cite book|title=The Sims 2 Pets: Prima Official Game Guide|last=Kramer|first=Greg|chapter=Overview and Miscellaneous New Features|page=9|publisher=Prima Games|date=2006|isbn=0-7615-5452-1}}</ref>}} Pets can be acquired during gameplay or made using the "Create a Dog"/"Create a Cat" tools,<ref name="prima2">{{cite book|title=The Sims 2 Pets: Prima Official Game Guide|last=Kramer|first=Greg|chapter=Create a Cat/Dog and Acquiring Pets|page=11|publisher=Prima Games|date=2006|isbn=0-7615-5452-1}}</ref> which allows players to design a breed from scratch, including features and coat color. Players are not limited to naturally occurring colors.<ref name="tuscaloosa">{{cite web|url=https://www.tuscaloosanews.com/story/news/2006/11/10/video-game-review-the-sims-2-pets/27692410007/|title=Video Game Review: The Sims 2: Pets|work=Tuscaloosa News|last=Mullen Tusk|first=Steve|date=9 November 2006|access-date=15 September 2023|archive-date=18 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230918011907/https://www.tuscaloosanews.com/story/news/2006/11/10/video-game-review-the-sims-2-pets/27692410007/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="ign5">{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/10/27/the-sims-2-pets-review-6|title=The Sims 2 Pets Review|work=IGN|last=Habib|first=J|date=27 October 2006|access-date=15 September 2023|archive-date=18 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230318110528/https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/10/27/the-sims-2-pets-review-6|url-status=live}}</ref> Pets work similar to other Sims; they have needs or motives that need to be provided for, such as Hunger, Energy, and Hygiene. Unlike other Sims, they cannot be directly controlled by the player and instead act autonomously.<ref name="prima3">{{cite book|title=The Sims 2 Pets: Prima Official Game Guide|last=Kramer|first=Greg|chapter=Pet Life|pages=32–33|publisher=Prima Games|date=2006|isbn=0-7615-5452-1}}</ref> Pets are able to have careers, and can in theory be a family's primary breadwinner.<ref name="gamespot3">{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/the-sims-2-pets-review/1900-6159951/|title=The Sims 2: Pets Review|work=GameSpot|last=Park|first=Andrew|date=25 October 2006|access-date=17 September 2023|archive-date=18 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230918011909/https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/the-sims-2-pets-review/1900-6159951/|url-status=live}}</ref>

Following the introduction of supernatural or "occult" Sims in prior expansion packs,<ref name="gamerant1">{{cite web|url=https://gamerant.com/sims-series-occult-ranked/|title=The Sims: Each Occult, Ranked From Worst To Best|work=Game Rant|last=Winters|first=Brian|date=4 July 2020|access-date=17 September 2023|archive-date=8 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230908101519/https://gamerant.com/sims-series-occult-ranked/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Pets'' adds the ability for Sims to become [[Werewolf|werewolves]].<ref name="prima7">{{cite book|title=The Sims 2 Pets: Prima Official Game Guide|last=Kramer|first=Greg|chapter=New NPCs & Lycanthropy|page=129|publisher=Prima Games|date=2006|isbn=0-7615-5452-1}}</ref> Werewolves are normal Sims during the daytime, but at 8{{nbsp}}p.m. in-game time turn into [[Anthropomorphism|anthropomorphic]] wolves. They have the ability to summon wolves, and train pets at an accelerated rate compared to normal Sims. Sims become werewolves by befriending a male stray dog known as the "pack leader" and being bitten by him; werewolf Sims can also turn other Sims into werewolves in their wolf form.<ref name="ignwerewolves">{{cite web | title=Werewolves - the Sims 2: Pets Guide | date=March 29, 2012 | url=https://www.ign.com/wikis/the-sims-2-pets/Werewolves }}</ref> Over time, a werewolf's personality evolves to be more outgoing, less nice, less neat, more active, and more playful, and they automatically gain points in the body skill upon each transformation. Servos from ''[[The Sims 2: Open for Business]]'' can be turned into werewolves, and Sims can be both werewolves and [[vampire]]s or [[zombie]]s.<ref name="prima8">{{cite book|title=The Sims 2 Pets: Prima Official Game Guide|last=Kramer|first=Greg|chapter=New NPCs & Lycanthropy|pages=130–131|publisher=Prima Games|date=2006|isbn=0-7615-5452-1}}</ref>

Unlike prior expansions, ''Pets'' has little content relevant to overall gameplay.<ref name="ign5" /> It nonetheless expands the game's building options, including making it possible to build diagonal walls and rooms<ref name="prima4">{{cite book|title=The Sims 2 Pets: Prima Official Game Guide|last=Kramer|first=Greg|chapter=Build Mode Additions|pages=134–135|publisher=Prima Games|date=2006|isbn=0-7615-5452-1}}</ref> and [[octagon]]-shaped rooms.<ref name="prima5">{{cite book|title=The Sims 2 Pets: Prima Official Game Guide|last=Kramer|first=Greg|chapter=Build Mode Additions|page=136|publisher=Prima Games|date=2006|isbn=0-7615-5452-1}}</ref> It also adds new [[cheat code]]s, allowing players to control pets, modify roof slopes when building, and freeze pet aging.<ref name="prima6">{{cite book|title=The Sims 2 Pets: Prima Official Game Guide|last=Kramer|first=Greg|chapter=Cheats|page=142|publisher=Prima Games|date=2006|isbn=0-7615-5452-1}}</ref>

===Console and PSP versions===
Unlike the PC version, the console version of ''The Sims 2: Pets'' is a stand-alone game. Senior producer [[Rod Humble]] described it as a "more advanced version" of the original version of ''[[The Sims 2]]'' for consoles, which had been released the year before. The game was released for [[PlayStation 2]], [[GameCube]], [[PlayStation Portable]] and [[Wii]]; no [[Xbox 360]] version was released, due to the high competition expected on the platform during that release window.<ref name="gamespot1" />

Like the base game across platforms, the console version of ''Pets'' is an open-ended [[sandbox game]]. Goals the game encourages, but does not mandate, include upgrading the [[town square]] of the in-game neighborhood; unlocking pet colors, markings, and collars to use in the Create a Cat and Create a Dog processes; and unlocking new Sims to interact with.<ref name="prima9">{{cite book|title=The Sims 2 Pets: Prima Official Game Guide|last=Kramer|first=Greg|chapter=The Neighborhood View & Control Modes|page=203|publisher=Prima Games|date=2006|isbn=0-7615-5452-1}}</ref> Fundamental mechanics are similar to the PC game, but work in different ways. For instance, the aspiration (long-term driving goal) and want (short-term desires) systems are retained, but the selection of aspirations is different, and the player can change a Sim's wants on demand using a "Call Therapist" function.<ref name="prima10">{{cite book|title=The Sims 2 Pets: Prima Official Game Guide|last=Kramer|first=Greg|chapter=The Neighborhood View & Control Modes|pages=211–214|publisher=Prima Games|date=2006|isbn=0-7615-5452-1}}</ref>

The console version of ''Pets'' has a single neighborhood with a downtown or "town square" area, which exclusively contains pet-related businesses. Rather than Simoleons (the usual in-game currency across the series), the town square deals in "Pet Points", which are acquired through fulfilling a pet's wants.<ref name="gamespot4">{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/the-sims-2-pets-review/1900-6160179/|title=The Sims 2: Pets Review for GameCube|last=Park|first=Andrew|website=Gamespot|date=19 October 2006|access-date=17 September 2023|archive-date=10 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200710074933/https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/the-sims-2-pets-review/1900-6160179/|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="prima11">{{cite book|title=The Sims 2 Pets: Prima Official Game Guide|last=Kramer|first=Greg|chapter=The Neighborhood View & Control Modes|pages=207–208|publisher=Prima Games|date=2006|isbn=0-7615-5452-1}}</ref> As the player earns and spends such points, the town square is upgraded, expanding the businesses located there and the range of objects available in them. Pet Points also allow the player to acquire codes that unlock secret items.<ref name="gamechronicles1">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamechronicles.com/reviews/ps2/sims2pets/pets.htm|title=PS2 Review: The Sims 2 Pets|work=Game Chronicles|last=Tsukitaka|first=Mahamari|date=12 November 2006|access-date=17 September 2023|archive-date=6 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150906184855/http://www.gamechronicles.com/reviews/ps2/sims2pets/pets.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> There are no non-pet-related businesses or recreational options.<ref name="gamespy2">{{cite web|url=http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/the-sims-2-pets-hold-for-july-27/742335p1.html|title=The Sims 2: Pets (PS2)|work=GameSpy|last=Di Fiore|first=Elisa|date=27 October 2006|access-date=17 September 2023|archive-date=5 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150905233224/http://ps2.gamespy.com/playstation-2/the-sims-2-pets-hold-for-july-27/742335p1.html|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Game Boy Advance and Nintendo DS versions===
[[File:TS2P GBA gameplay.png|thumb|upright=1.2|Gameplay of the [[Game Boy Advance]] version of ''Pets'']]
The versions of ''Pets'' for the [[Game Boy Advance]] and [[Nintendo DS]] are more structured than on other platforms. The DS version is premised on playing as a veterinarian running an [[animal hospital]], while the GBA version incorporates [[Role-playing video game#Characteristics|role-playing game elements]].<ref name="gamespot1" />

The DS version of ''Pets'', on account of its premise, has a more direct focus on animal care than other entries. While caring for a Sim and their own pet, the player treats a steady flow of cats and dogs with any one of five diseases.<ref name="gamespot5">{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/the-sims-2-pets-review/1900-6162087/|title=The Sims 2: Pets Review (DS)|work=GameSpot|last=Provo|first=Frank|date=20 November 2006|access-date=17 September 2023|archive-date=15 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200215222002/https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/the-sims-2-pets-review/1900-6162087/|url-status=live}}</ref> The interactions available are limited compared to the PC game.<ref name="gamespot5" /><ref name="ign6">{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/11/08/the-sims-2-pets-review-5|title=The Sims 2 Pets Review: They might be a Sim's best friend, but they won't be yours|work=IGN|last=Harris|first=Craig|date=8 November 2006|access-date=17 September 2023|archive-date=10 July 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200710075522/https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/11/08/the-sims-2-pets-review-5|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="gamesradar1">{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/the-sims-2-pets-19/|title=The Sims 2: Pets review|work=GamesRadar|last=Sewart|first=Greg|date=1 December 2006|access-date=17 September 2023|archive-date=18 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230918011935/https://www.gamesradar.com/the-sims-2-pets-19/|url-status=live}}</ref> The game includes both cats and dogs, but their behavior and interaction work the same; Craig Harris, reviewing for ''[[IGN]]'', complained that cats "roll over and beg, and fetch a ball with the same animation sequences as the dogs". Pet training is also possible, using a [[rhythm game]]-like mechanic where the player completes patterns on-screen to train a trick.<ref name="ign6" /> The GBA version is loosely structured around training a pet and competing against non-player characters. As Sims earn money, they can buy "trick scrolls" that allow teaching a pet a new trick. The game as a whole is based primarily around formal [[minigame]]s, including pet walking, training, and competitions.<ref name="staircasespirit">{{cite web|url=http://www.rigelatin.net/staircase/sims2-pets-gba.php|title=Game Review: The Sims 2 Pets (GBA)|work=Staircase Spirit|last1=Ludovico|first1=Rosangela|last2=Ritabuuk|first2=Denise|date=17 February 2019|access-date=17 September 2023|archive-date=14 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230314190913/http://www.rigelatin.net/staircase/sims2-pets-gba.php|url-status=live}}</ref>

==Soundtrack==
The background music for ''The Sims 2: Pets'' was composed by [[Mark Mothersbaugh]].<ref name="ign7">{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/09/14/sims-2-pets-rocks-the-house|title=Sims 2 Pets Rocks The House|work=IGN|author=Staff writer|date=15 September 2006|access-date=17 September 2023|archive-date=18 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230918175255/https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/09/14/sims-2-pets-rocks-the-house|url-status=live}}</ref> As with previous expansion packs, [[diegetic music]] was contributed by musicians covering their previous songs in [[Simlish]], the [[constructed language]] spoken in-game. The [[pop rock]] duo [[Aly & AJ]] were one of the first acts announced to appear on the soundtrack; they stated they were "huge fans" of the series and enthused by the opportunity to participate.<ref name="gamespot6">{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/teen-queens-sing-in-simlish/1100-6155464/|title=Teen queens sing in Simlish|work=GameSpot|last=Surette|first=Tim|date=9 August 2006|access-date=17 September 2023|archive-date=18 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230918011915/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/teen-queens-sing-in-simlish/1100-6155464/|url-status=live}}</ref> Other acts featuring on the soundtrack were [[the Flaming Lips]], [[Brazil (band)]], [[the Pussycat Dolls]], [[Hot Chip]], [[Cut Copy]], [[Saving Jane]], [[Skye Sweetnam]], and [[Ralph Myerz and the Jack Herren Band]].<ref name="gamespot7">{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/flaming-lips-pussycats-in-sims-2-pets/1100-6157570/|title=Flaming Lips, Pussycats in Sims 2 Pets|work=GameSpot|last=Surette|first=Tim|date=14 September 2006|access-date=17 September 2023|archive-date=30 October 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221030022331/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/flaming-lips-pussycats-in-sims-2-pets/1100-6157570/|url-status=live}}</ref> Stuart Bishop, reviewing the PC version for ''[[Computer and Video Games]]'', disparaged the soundtrack and its "mindless inclusion of Simlish covers of Pussycat Dolls songs", positing that Simlish versions of the band's lyrics were an improvement on the real ones.<ref name="cvg" /> <!--Soundtracks for the PC and console versions are broadly similar.<ref name="gamespy2" /><ref name="gamespot7" />-->

==Reception and legacy==
===PC version===

''The Sims 2: Pets'' for PC received an aggregate [[Metacritic|Metascore]] of 76, indicating positive-leaning reviews.<ref name="metacritic1">{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/the-sims-2-pets/critic-reviews/?platform=pc|title=The Sims 2: Pets PC Critic Reviews|work=Metacritic|access-date=18 September 2023|archive-date=22 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230922202117/https://www.metacritic.com/game/the-sims-2-pets/critic-reviews/?platform=pc|url-status=live}}</ref> Reviewers praised the pets themselves for their realism and design<ref name="cvg">{{cite web|url=https://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=150895|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070120042042/https://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=150895|url-status=dead|title=PC Review: The Sims 2: Pets|work=Computer and Video Games|last=Bishop|first=Stuart|date=10 December 2006|access-date=18 September 2023|archive-date=20 January 2007}}</ref><ref name="gamechronicles2">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamechronicles.com/reviews/pc/sims2pets/pets.htm|title=PC Review: The Sims 2 Pets|work=Game Chronicles|last=Tsukitaka|first=Mahamari|date=11 November 2006|access-date=18 September 2023|archive-date=8 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150908041239/http://www.gamechronicles.com/reviews/pc/sims2pets/pets.htm|url-status=live}}</ref> but criticised the expansion pack's overall lack of content and narrow focus on its subject matter.<ref name="gamespot3" /><ref name="palgn">{{cite web|url=http://palgn.com.au/article.php?id=5647&sid=b98d39eb16bee0161281ca29d93b59db|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080210161118/http://palgn.com.au/article.php?id=5647&sid=b98d39eb16bee0161281ca29d93b59db|url-status=dead|title=The Sims 2: Pets Review|work=PAL Gaming Network|last=Van Leuveren|first=Luke|date=28 October 2006|access-date=18 September 2023|archive-date=10 February 2008}}</ref> Multiple writers found the expansion's limited scope disappointing compared to the broader additions of previous expansion packs.<ref name="ign5" /><ref name="gamesradar2">{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/the-sims-2-pets-review/|title=The Sims 2 Pets review|work=GamesRadar|last=Barratt|first=Charlie|date=28 October 2006|access-date=18 September 2023|archive-date=18 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230918011904/https://www.gamesradar.com/the-sims-2-pets-review/|url-status=live}}</ref>

The models, animations, and behaviors of the pets were well-received; ''[[Computer and Video Games]]''{{Apostrophe}} Stuart Bishop{{emdash}}in a positive review{{emdash}}called their "needless detail" a surprise. Bishop and ''[[IGN]]''{{'s}} J. Habib both favorably compared ''Pets'' to ''[[The Sims: Unleashed]]'', a similar expansion pack for the first game. Habib noted ''Pets''{{'}} expanded customization, including the ability to create new breeds. Bishop called attention to the game's fluid and naturalistic animations compared to ''Unleashed'', stating that cats and dogs in ''Pets'' moved realistically rather than, as he chose to put it, "running only at 90-degree angles like some demented autistic creature".<ref name="ign5" /><ref name="cvg" />

''Pets''{{'}} markedly narrower scope than prior expansion packs was a subject of discussion. Habib described ''Pets'' as "hands-down the least significant and useful of the Sims 2 expansion packs".<ref name="ign5" /> Charlie Barratt at ''[[GamesRadar+|GamesRadar]]'' juxtaposed it with the prior three expansion packs for the game; while ''[[The Sims 2: University|University]]'', ''[[The Sims 2: Nightlife|Nightlife]]'', and ''[[The Sims 2: Open for Business|Open for Business]]'' had made substantial gameplay changes, ''Pets'' was more monotonously focused on a single element.<ref name="gamesradar2" /> Multiple reviewers felt that the expansion was unlikely to appeal to new players.<ref name="tuscaloosa" /><ref name="gamechronicles2" /><ref name="palgn" />

In 2022, Gabrielle Castania at ''TheGamer'' ranked ''Pets'' in seventh place out of ''The Sims 2''{{'s}} eight expansion packs.<ref name="thegamer1">{{cite web|url=https://www.thegamer.com/the-sims-2-all-expansions-dlc-best-ranked/|title=The Sims 2: All Expansions, Ranked|work=TheGamer|last=Castania|first=Gabrielle|date=17 August 2022|access-date=18 September 2023|archive-date=7 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230907093330/https://www.thegamer.com/the-sims-2-all-expansions-dlc-best-ranked/|url-status=live}}</ref> <!--werewolves, incl. https://nsuworks.nova.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1005&context=hcas_dcma_facarticles -->

===Console and handheld versions===

Reviews for the console and handheld versions of ''Pets'' were mixed to negative. [[Metacritic|Metascores]] for the console games all fall into the "mixed or average" range, ranging from 57 for the [[PlayStation Portable]] rendition to 68 on the [[PlayStation 2]]. The handheld version of ''Pets'' for the [[Nintendo DS]] received a Metascore of 49, corresponding to "generally unfavorable" reviews.<ref name="metacritic2">{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/the-sims-2-pets/|title=The Sims 2: Pets|work=Metacritic|date=18 September 2023|access-date=17 September 2023|archive-date=18 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230918182259/https://www.metacritic.com/game/the-sims-2-pets/|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Pets'' was considered an improvement over previous console ''Sims'' games; Juan Castro at ''[[IGN]]'' felt it "improves upon its console predecessors in every way imaginable",<ref name="ign8">{{cite web |last1=Castro |first1=Juan |title=The Sims 2 Pets Review (Console) |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/10/19/the-sims-2-pets-review-7 |website=IGN |access-date=18 September 2023 |date=19 October 2006 |archive-date=18 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230918175257/https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/10/19/the-sims-2-pets-review-7 |url-status=live }}</ref> while reviewers with mixed perceptions on the game as a whole nonetheless praised it compared to previous installments.<ref name="eurogamer3">{{cite web|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/r-thesims2pets-ps2|title=The Sims 2 Pets|work=Eurogamer|last=Kavanagh|first=Liam|date=31 October 2006|access-date=18 September 2023|archive-date=18 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230918011905/https://www.eurogamer.net/r-thesims2pets-ps2|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="videogamer" /> However, reviewers criticised its limitations compared to the PC game.<ref name="eurogamer3" /><ref name="gamestyle">{{cite web|url=http://www.gamestyle.net/reviews.php?id=1087|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070513005720/http://www.gamestyle.net/reviews.php?id=1087|url-status=usurped|title=Review - The Sims 2: Pets|last=Lucas|first=Andy|date=20 October 2006|access-date=18 September 2023|archive-date=13 May 2007}}</ref><ref name="neurope">{{cite web|url=https://www.n-europe.com/review.php?rid=285|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100214055523/https://www.n-europe.com/review.php?rid=285|url-status=dead|title=Review: The Sims 2 Pets (GC)|work=N-Europe|last=Wilson|first=Mike|date=28 November 2006|access-date=18 September 2023|archive-date=14 February 2010}}</ref>

''Pets'' for console was unfavorably compared to dedicated [[virtual pet]] games; Liam Kavanagh at ''Eurogamer'' recommended ''[[Nintendogs]]'' as a better option for virtual pet players, while a ''Computer and Video Games'' staff writer described it as "a variation on [[Tamagotchi]] that's been roughly crowbarred into ''The Sims 2''".<ref name="eurogamer3" /><ref name="cvg2">{{cite web |author1=Staff writer |title=PS2 Review: The Sims 2 Pets |url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=147807 |website=Computer and Video Games |access-date=18 September 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061025011016/http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=147807 |archive-date=25 October 2006 |date=18 October 2006 |url-status=dead}}</ref> The game's limitations compared to its PC version were a recurring subject of discussion. Critics described it as "feel[ing] like an expansion pack"<ref name="videogamer">{{cite web|url=https://www.videogamer.com/reviews/20070103094937-the-sims-2-pets-review/|title=The Sims 2: Pets Review|work=VideoGamer|last=Orry|first=Tom|date=3 January 2007|access-date=18 September 2023|archive-date=18 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230918011914/https://www.videogamer.com/reviews/20070103094937-the-sims-2-pets-review/|url-status=live}}</ref> and referred to its inability to be built upon the same way as the PC game. A writer for ''Digital Entertainment News'' criticised the general concept of console ''Sims'' ports due to their inability to become "one very-full-featured master-game", giving the example of a hypothetical ''[[The Sims 2: Nightlife|Nightlife]]'' console port that players would be unable to synergize with ''Pets''.<ref name="diginews">{{cite web|url=http://dignews.com/review.php?story_id=19149|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070218212829/http://dignews.com/review.php?story_id=19149|url-status=dead|title=Sims 2: Pets Review|work=Digital Entertainment News|last=Hansen|first=Craig|date=15 November 2006|access-date=18 September 2023|archive-date=18 February 2007}}</ref>

Reviews for the PSP and GameCube ports drew attention to their limitations. Orry, reviewing for PSP, criticised its frequent loading and lack of multiplayer options.<ref name="videogamer" /> ''Gamestyle''{{'s}} Andy Lucas praised the GameCube version compared to contemporary releases such as ''[[Need for Speed: Underground 2]]'',  alongside EA's commitment to the declining platform; nonetheless, he found the game as a whole "competent but uninspired".<ref name="gamestyle" /> Mike Wilson's ''N-Europe'' GameCube review was strongly negative, disparaging the loading times and controls and stating its inferiority to the PC version "could possibly tarnish your view on future Sims games".<ref name="neurope" />

The handheld versions of ''Pets'' were poorly-received; ''GamesRadar'' stated the DS version "needs to be put down".<ref name="gamesradar1" /> Reviewers disliked its "mutant, low-poly" graphics; the apparent shortcuts it took, such as cats behaving identically to dogs;<ref name="ign6" /> and its inferiority to ''Nintendogs'', a similar simulation title focused on pet care.<ref name="gamespot5" /> The Game Boy Advance version, while "not quite as dull",<ref name="ign9">{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/11/23/the-sims-2-pets-review-4|title=The Sims 2 Pets Review (GBA)|work=IGN|last=Adams|first=Chris|date=23 November 2006|access-date=19 September 2023|archive-date=23 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190523173336/https://www.ign.com/articles/2006/11/23/the-sims-2-pets-review-4|url-status=live}}</ref> still received criticism for its balance issues, lack of personality, and convoluted plot.<ref name="staircasespirit" /><ref name="ign9" />

==See also==
*''[[The Sims: Unleashed]]''
*''[[The Sims 2: Apartment Pets]]''
*{{section link|The Sims Stories|Pet Stories}}
*{{section link|The Sims 3 expansion packs|Pets}}
*{{section link|The Sims 4 expansion packs|Cats & Dogs}}
*{{section link|The Sims 4 game packs|Werewolves}}

==Notes==
{{NoteFoot}}

==References==
{{reflist}}

==External links==
*[[wikiasite:sims:The Sims 2: Pets|The Sims 2: Pets]] at The Sims Wiki
{{Sim series|thesims=yes}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Sims 2: Pets, The}}

[[Category:2005 video games]]
[[Category:Aspyr games]]
[[Category:Behaviour Interactive games]]
[[Category:Full Fat games]]
[[Category:Game Boy Advance games]]
[[Category:GameCube games]]
[[Category:MacOS games]]
[[Category:Nintendo DS games]]
[[Category:PlayStation 2 games]]
[[Category:PlayStation Portable games]]
[[Category:The Sims 2 expansion packs|Pets]]
[[Category:Video games about animals]]
[[Category:Video games developed in the United States]]
[[Category:Video games scored by Mark Mothersbaugh]]
[[Category:Video games with gender-selectable protagonists]]
[[Category:Werewolf video games]]
[[Category:Wii games]]
[[Category:Windows games]]

{{Wikipedia attribution|original_title=The Sims 2: Pets|access_date=2026-03-07}}