Since the arrival of simulation games there has been some conflict in individuals. In every instance, the game offers one of two choices : let the creature / simulated human thrive……or let it go down the drain. Not being a very vindictive person myself, and proud owner of a neighbourhood full of happy, successfull Sims. Recently I had found out that this is not always the case.

Upon inquiry as to why there are 5 gravestones and only 3 sims on one lot, my sister’s simple reply comes that the other 5 were constantly depressed and had to be put out of misery. “Shame.” I sympathize. “Poor Sims.”
“Poor ME! Do you know how hard they are to control when they’re depressed?”
So this brings us to a whole new concept, devised by my slightly evil sibling.
She fulfills the dual role of creator and grin reaper.
Yes, you read correctly, the GRIN reaper.
Smile or Die.
As long as the Sim is happy and productive , it will keep its place in the world of pixels, but beware of setbacks. One bad morning , and by noon you may be at the bottom of the swimming pool because the pool ladder has mysteriously vanished.

Another instance of this happening has been spotted with two of my flatmates. The phenomenon is not limited to simulation games, however. I present to you exhibit A : Flatmate 1 plays virtual golf. Swinging requires the player to pull the mouse back and then push it forward very quickly. Totally engrossed in his game, the friend does just this but sadly does not take in account how near the wall is to the mouse. After completing the swing it takes a few seconds for him to realise that one of his fingernails is no longer on his finger, but on his wrist. A lot of screaming ensues. Also a doctor’s bill and much ridicule from his other friends.

Exhibit B was luckily not injured that badly, but the same cannot be said for his computer. With feet up on the desk and the keyboard resting on his legs, the flatmate whiles the hours away playing a high-tension strategy game. When he’s not squealing in fright, he is fervently jabbing the keyboard in an attempt to make his virtual self move faster.

Due to this the keyboard’s space bar has given up the fight and is now deeply lodged in the confined space between the bottom row of letters. The mouse also does not come out unscathed. The cable is patched in various places and when you move it at a certain angle the computer restarts.
And they thought the year 2000 was dangerous….try 2005…