SMagazine Issue 9 | Page 117

my story in interesting directions. My Sims lead very dramatic lives! In terms of Build Mode, what’s your favourite thing? I love landscaping gardens! Hedges, fences, lots of flowers, winding garden paths, fountains…I love to take a really big lot and build a tiny house with a massive garden. When did you first play The Sims? I discovered The Sims (the first one) on the PS2. I was quickly addicted and within a week abandoned my console game so I could play the PC version with the expansion packs. Do you have any tips for aspiring game designers? Get involved in creative pursuits! If your school has a club that makes games or films or anything creative get involved and get that creative team experience. Also, learn some basic code. Game design isn’t all coming up with awesome ideas – a lot of it is implementing those ideas, and understanding how your game engine works. Having even a rudimentary background in engineering is very beneficial. ruSarah What’s the best memory you have of The Sims Studio? Be sure to double-check you’re following Sarah on Twitter @SimGuruSarah My best memories all involve my coworkers. One of my favorite memories is coming in on a Saturday during The Sims 3 Pets development. There were only a few of us in the office, so we turned up the computer speakers really loud and we sang along to the Broadway musical Rent while we worked. • 117