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In this version, we bring you many improvements to pets! Read on for details.
The Sims Online, version 1.861.9.0
Version Status: In Test Center only as of Tuesday, June 15th.
This version will require a download of approximately 4 MB from the version currently in Test Center.
Special data-gathering version
We have enabled many data-gathering tools in this version in order to get a better understanding of where we can improve how the game runs. This is a temporary version, and will be replaced with a normal version (containing all the same features and improvements) when we have gathered the necessary information.
These data-gathering tools may make gameplay a bit slower than normal in Test Center. We apologize for any resulting difficulties. We will have a normal version back in place within a day or two.
Corrections and improvements
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We have corrected a number of object errors, which could result in Sims or objects "resetting" or turning pink. Objects affected include cake slices, newspapers and cannon balls, among others.
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We have made additional fixes to eliminate roommate kickout troubles.
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We have streamlined various sections of our game data handling to improve performance.
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Interactions on beds should now be functioning normally. Some choices had been unintentionally disabled previously.
Pets Grow Up!
We're adding quite a bit of depth to the pets, giving them unique personalities that develop over time. You can also train your pets to do more than just go outside when it's "that time."
In general, dogs have become more rambunctious, and cats have new usefulness around the house with the arrival of pests.
New dog activities
Your canine friends are doing some new things, from sniffing to chasing each other around. You might even be able to teach your dog to go after Sims you dislike.
Sniff
Dogs live through their noses. When a dog wants to get to know a Sim or another pet better, it will give them a good sniff. Accepting this little snuffle makes the doggy happy. Rejecting it makes him sad.
Chase
Better watch out for the breakables! Dogs who are looking for some fun may find a willing play partner and start a mad game of tag across your lot. This is great fun, though it tires them out eventually.
Snuggle
Sleepy dogs like company. Your may find that your dog will sleep better if he has another canine buddy to snuggle with.
Attack
If there's a Sim you are not fond of, you can have your dog make the point for you. Click on your dog and choose "attack," and you will then be able to choose who to pester. If you have trained your dog well, he will go after that Sim immediately.
Dog attacks, like the rest of The Sims Online, are not permanently harmful. They definitely make an impression, though!
New Pet Playset
We have added a new pet playset to the catalog. When your pet is looking for some fun, this is the place to play.
Pests
With all the restaurants in operation throughout The Sims Online cities, some new pests appear. Properties with too much trash are especially attractive to these pests, becoming infested with mice or even roaches if they are not properly cleaned regularly.
Pests are attracted by garbage, dirty sinks and toilets, and similar forms of poor housekeeping. They make everyone uncomfortable as they scurry about, so take care of them quickly.
Getting rid of pests
Pests can be eradicated through various means. Just click on them to see your options.
Most pests can be controlled fairly simply, either by an industrious Sim or a maid. In addition, if there are cats on the property, they are often willing to help with a mouse problem.
Kitty earns her keep
A cat may decide to hunt mice if it's a bit hungry or bored. Cats really enjoy this "job," though some are much better at it than others. New kittens are less effective hunters than wily old veteran mousers. The more mice it catches, the better a cat gets at hunting them.
Successful hunters may decide to eat up those fat tasty mice on the spot. They may also offer you one. The best thing to do is thank your kitty and quietly toss the carcass in the trash.
Tricks
Sit and Stay (dogs only)
Selecting "Sit and Stay" tells your dog to, well, sit and stay. Depending on how well trained your dog is, he then stays still for a while. The more practice your dog gets, the more obedient he will become.
Be Quiet
If your pet is complaining (see below), you can tell it to "Be Quiet." This will quiet your pet, but won't make it happy.
Personalities
Pets have their own unique personalities. This was always true to a certain extent. Now, each pet can have a distinctly different outlook on life. You will have to watch your pets closely to learn what they like to do. Pets have more distinct personalities now; it’s possible that some pets will simply be unfriendly, no matter how well you treat it. It’s part of the gamble when purchasing a pet; just like in real life. Pet owners may want to interact with a pet for a while in a shop before purchasing it or ask the previous owner about the pet’s personality. If the previous owner is missing a few limbs, you may want to reconsider their offer.
Complaining
Dogs will whine and cats will howl when they are unhappy. The sadder they are, the longer and louder they will complain to you. They can wake you up with their sad cries, so it's best to take good care of your furry friends. If your pet tries to come to you to complain, and you reject its cries, it will quiet down...but your relationship may suffer.
Obedience
Pets can develop greater attentiveness if properly cared for and trained. Obedient pets will complain less, and perform better when told to do things by their owners. In general, the more your pet obeys you and you give a reward, the more obedient your pet will become.
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