Castaway Chat

We hosted a chat with the Castaway team earlier today. If you couldn't make it, come read the transcript to learn all about this new game.

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ChatMaster (Oct 16, 2007 5:52:20 PM)
Today we are chatting with the Castaway team. Please welcome Ben, Rawson, Byrt!!

ChatMaster (Oct 16, 2007 5:52:31 PM)
we will be getting started in a minute

ChatMaster (Oct 16, 2007 5:52:42 PM)
but feel free to submit your questions!

rajbarrek (Oct 16, 2007 5:53:39 PM)
Welcome, team!

simgelf (Oct 16, 2007 5:53:50 PM)
So, tell us about the monkeys!

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 5:53:50 PM)
the island is full of chimps. in the beginning, they are a bit shy but you can befriend them and eventually train them to help you. the chimps will help you to collect the resources that you need to survive. you can even train them

ChatMaster (Oct 16, 2007 5:53:57 PM)
hey!

ChatMaster (Oct 16, 2007 5:54:02 PM)
It's not 4pm yet!

ChatMaster (Oct 16, 2007 5:54:13 PM)
OK..now we are OFFICIALLY getting started

ChatMaster (Oct 16, 2007 5:54:17 PM)
ok READY?

ChatMaster (Oct 16, 2007 5:54:18 PM)
Today we are chatting with the Castaway team. Please welcome Ben, Rawson, Byrt!!

ChatMaster (Oct 16, 2007 5:54:20 PM)
GO!

MaxoidGoonter (Oct 16, 2007 5:54:28 PM)
I think we already went.

kstradleigh (Oct 16, 2007 5:54:52 PM)
Is SecuRom going to be used in Castaway?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 5:54:52 PM)
no, the Sims 2 Castaway is for PS2, Wii, DS and PSP. This is a console game and it won't be on your PC

Guest (Oct 16, 2007 5:55:06 PM)
Can you have babies?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 5:55:06 PM)
Sorry, we don't have babies on Castaway.

RichP409 (Oct 16, 2007 5:57:25 PM)
What are the unique features for each version?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 5:57:25 PM)
All of the Castaway games let you take control of the Sims as they survive and thrive on an uncharted island. However, the DS version has a very unique spin on this theme. The DS version makes extensive use of the stylus and microphone. There are unique castaway Sims that you help throughout the game. You also play cool mini-games to help your Sims survive. You can fish and paint with the Stylus and you can use the microphone to play music.

MaxoidGoonter (Oct 16, 2007 5:58:09 PM)
thriving not guaranteed

MaxoidGoonter (Oct 16, 2007 5:58:14 PM)

FunCat13b (Oct 16, 2007 5:58:15 PM)
Will there be a PC verson of Castaway?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 5:58:15 PM)
The Sims 2 Castaway is not a PC game. It will be available on your Wii, DS, PS2 and PSP

Guest (Oct 16, 2007 5:58:48 PM)
The game will be very different from The Sims 2?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 5:58:48 PM)
Castaway is pretty different in that it has more of an adventure feel than previous Sims games. For instance, we've replaced the need for jobs with gathering and building your items from scratch instead of buying them.

Squirrel7284 (Oct 16, 2007 5:59:32 PM)
What is the "Story" Behind The Sims 2 Castaway? and are the stories for The DS Game and Wii Game Different?

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 5:59:32 PM)
The DS and the Wii versions are different as they are different systems. The DS version really takes advantage of the mic and the stylus. There are also different Castaways. Also the DS game features different mini-games such as spear fishing with the stylus and music playing with the microphone.

sheltiegirl15 (Oct 16, 2007 6:00:02 PM)
What will the sims be able to do in Castaway?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:00:02 PM)
The Sims 2 Castaway is all about helping your Sims survive on an uncharted island. They wash up on the island with nothing...no fridge, no toaster, no tv, no cars. You help them build a life from scratch. Crafting is a big part of the game. You explore the island to discover new resources and then you use them to build furniture, clothing, shelter, entertainment and food.

Guest (Oct 16, 2007 6:00:47 PM)
Is the island treated as a neighborhood? Is it one family per island?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:00:47 PM)
There are no neighborhoods. We open up the entire island chain for players to explore and build on.

RichP409 (Oct 16, 2007 6:00:52 PM)
Are there hidden secrets in the game? If so can you give a hint?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:00:52 PM)
There are tons of hidden secrets in the game. As you explore the island, you will discover artifacts from an ancient civilization. These ultimately lead you to discover some incredible locations and resources.

Guest (Oct 16, 2007 6:01:25 PM)
My question is... Can your sims die if they are not taken care of?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:01:25 PM)
Yes, your sims can die of hunger. If your sim is the last one in your tribe, it's game over.

sonicroks6 (Oct 16, 2007 6:01:37 PM)
How big is the island?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:01:37 PM)
The islands are very big. Each island is broken up into different regions, and when you unlock all of them, they all become places for creativity and building.

Nancy01905 (Oct 16, 2007 6:02:49 PM)
can they get fall in love / married in castaway?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:02:49 PM)
Yes, your sims can fall in love and get married on the islands. You need to craft special wedding clothing in order to do so.

sonicroks6 (Oct 16, 2007 6:02:53 PM)
What are the controls like on the Wii?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:02:53 PM)
On the Wii, you use the nunchuck to control your Sims. You use the remote to point at things and use them, You also use the remote to build, which makes building easier than ever before on console.

Disco Stu (Oct 16, 2007 6:03:05 PM)
Is there any way to make it back to civilization?

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:03:05 PM)
If you're lucky you may find a way back to civilization... then again, if you're lucky you may just create a life on the island that you don't want to leave.

GuineaPiegs (Oct 16, 2007 6:04:24 PM)
is there aging?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:04:24 PM)
There is no long term aging, though your sims will grow their hair over time and their clothing will degrade until you can craft better ones.

Guest (Oct 16, 2007 6:04:58 PM)
so, in the beginning is it like you get washed up and then you have to survive?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:04:59 PM)
Yes, exactly. You create your crew of Sims and then they get shipwrecked on an island. You take control of one Sim and try to reunite the crew. When you reunite the Sims, you can then control all of them as you explore the islands and build a new home.

Guest (Oct 16, 2007 6:06:29 PM)
How many tribe members do you have? Can you get more?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:06:29 PM)
In the console versions (Wii, PS2, PSP) you can make a crew of up to six Sims. In the DS version, you control one sim, but there are many other castways on your island that you can meet and help.

sonicroks6 (Oct 16, 2007 6:06:48 PM)
What was your inspiration for making this game?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:06:48 PM)
Being stranded on a deserted island has always been an interesting story for people, but we were inspired by Robinson Crusoe, Castaway & even Gilligan's Island.

Nancy01905 (Oct 16, 2007 6:07:18 PM)
What was your favorite part in making castaway?

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:07:18 PM)
Personally, my favorite was making a Sims game that was very different than previous games. One of the main differences was getting away from neighborhoods and having an open world... the other one was getting away from the entire concept of Simoleans and jobs and buying stuff that you want. Also the whole focus on exploration was very new.

rajbarrek (Oct 16, 2007 6:08:12 PM)
Will weather be a factor at all in The Sims 2 Castaway?

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:08:12 PM)
Indeed it is!!

simscat! (Oct 16, 2007 6:08:18 PM)
are the homes like tiki style or is just straw and branches?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:08:18 PM)
You can create an awesome variety of homes. You collect resources as you explore. New resources will unlock new home plans. Ultimately, you will be able to build primitive straw huts, bamboo homes, and well crafted wood homes (and more)!

Guest (Oct 16, 2007 6:08:26 PM)
Are there building tools on any of them? If so, are they easily usable?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:08:26 PM)
You must build tools in order to build some of the more advanced objects. We have axes, chisels, hammers, etc. In fact, you'll want a hammer to fix up your hut after a hurricane!

NohjLepsol (Oct 16, 2007 6:08:40 PM)
Will there be any kinds of weather? Like hurricanes, etc.?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:08:40 PM)
Yes, there is weather in the game and it does affect your Sims and their homes.

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:09:03 PM)
You can also collect all kinds of fruits and vegetables to grow in your garden.

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:09:48 PM)
The world is full of wildlife that you will encounter. In addition to the chimps, there are wild chickens, wild boars, birds, and an incredible assortment of fish.

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:10:21 PM)
You can capture the chickens and harvest their eggs for food.

Guest (Oct 16, 2007 6:10:59 PM)
This there a story line we have to go by? or can we make our own?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:10:59 PM)
There's not a strict storyline to follow, but there is a back story to the islands. You discover a bit of the island's history, by collecting and discovering new areas. We do have a series of books that provide goals, but you're free to do them or not.

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:11:15 PM)
The wild boar are dangerous, but you can use the spear to hunt them. You can also use spears, poles and traps to catch fish.

sonicroks6 (Oct 16, 2007 6:11:45 PM)
In the DS version, will the other castaways act like townies or dormies on PC?

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:11:45 PM)
There are other Castaways on the island that you have to find and become friends with. They are similar to townies.

Squirrel7284 (Oct 16, 2007 6:12:22 PM)
I saw like a volcano looking thing?? Is it in the story at all??

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:12:22 PM)
There is a volcano on the last island that you explore. You will find some of the rarest and most valuable resources on the volcano.

Faris-sims (Oct 16, 2007 6:12:57 PM)
Hi, guys! What kinds of fruits and vegetables can sims grow in Castaway?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:12:57 PM)
There are hundreds of food resources that are available to plant and cultivate. Pretty much anything you can gather, you can eventually plant and grow yourself.

Simmonkey (Oct 16, 2007 6:13:05 PM)
Will you beable to find castaways you did not make?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:13:05 PM)
In the DS version, you will meet other castaway Sim characters.

FunCat13b (Oct 16, 2007 6:14:25 PM)
So can you make/have a farm with the chickens, boars etc...?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:14:26 PM)
You can have a farm with chickens, fruits and vegetables. The boars cannot be tamed, but you can hunt them.

abattista (Oct 16, 2007 6:14:30 PM)
How big is the island exactly? Is it about the size of a large lot in the Sims 2?

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:14:30 PM)
For the Wii and PS2 and PSP a lot is the size of perhaps dozens of "neighborhood" lots. And there are dozens of these new lots. Because, like The Sims 2 Castaway for the Wii, PS2, and PSP, the DS version takes place on three separate islands that are discovered, unlocked, and explored. Traverse forests, caves, lagoons, cliffs, and oceans to unlock the mystery of the three islands and, hopefully, return to civilization.

mancbird27 (Oct 16, 2007 6:15:28 PM)
is there only 1 island?

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:15:28 PM)
There are 3 islands!

afstandopleren (Oct 16, 2007 6:15:37 PM)
Can your sims die from stuff? Or are they untouchable by natures disasters etc.

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:15:37 PM)
The Sims can die from hunger, but you can revive them as long as there are other crew members around.

Jasmine H (Oct 16, 2007 6:15:45 PM)
Are castaways rated T or E

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:15:45 PM)
the game is E for DS...

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:16:06 PM)
But T for for PS2, Wii, PSP

Squirrel7284 (Oct 16, 2007 6:16:48 PM)
What Types of food are in the game?? Are they made fomr the resourses availible on the island?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:16:48 PM)
Yes, the islands are covered with trees and bushes filled with food resources. We have the typical bananas, coconuts and pineapples. We also have more exotic foods like mangosteen, starfruit, taro root & tumeric root. In addition, there are about 60 kinds of fish to catch and cook!

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:18:42 PM)
In the DS game there are dozens of different fish. It can sometimes be a bit of a puzzle to find them all. Some are only found in certain lakes, streams, or parts of the ocean. And others only at certain times of the day/night.

Guest (Oct 16, 2007 6:19:30 PM)
What is the general point of this game? Is there a story mode? Is it open ended?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:19:30 PM)
The goal of the game is to create a new life for the Sims. They start with nothing and you help them build tools, shelter, clothing, and much more. In order to discover resources for crafting, you explore the islands. Along the way, you will encounter some very cool locations like lost temples, caves and a volcano. The game is open-ended, but there are some long term goals like discovering all of the secrets. You can even escape from the islands.

abattista (Oct 16, 2007 6:20:13 PM)
Is the game 'beatable'? Or is it like Sims 2 where you can play endlessly?

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:20:13 PM)
You can possibly escape the island -- or it can be open-ended if you like your life on the island. The DS game has an ending.

abattista (Oct 16, 2007 6:20:21 PM)
Are the messed up hairs really like that, or are they just artpics? Thanks for hosting a chat!

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:20:21 PM)
The sims hair does get messed up over time. If you don't cut their hair, it'll continue to grow until you look all scruffy. Men grow their beards as you would expect. It's really neat.

wrightfan6 (Oct 16, 2007 6:20:35 PM)
do you move your sims the same way as you do on sims 2 for the consoles

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:20:35 PM)
Yes, you directly control your Sims, and you can give instructions to all of your crew-members so that they intelligently help you out. In the DS game, you use the stylus to interact with everything.

simmer (Oct 16, 2007 6:21:12 PM)
I watched the Producer Walkthrough and it says you sims end up stranded after a ship crash, will you be able to scavenged resojurces from your wrecked ship

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:21:12 PM)
there are several shipwrecks and a planewreck on the island. you can get lots of valuable resources from them.

Squirrel7284 (Oct 16, 2007 6:21:46 PM)
How did the Sims end up on the islands? (like did their plane crash, boat sink, etc.)

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:21:46 PM)
The Sims were on a party boat when a storm came up. But, the story is a little different for the DS version...

afstandopleren (Oct 16, 2007 6:21:53 PM)
Can your sims keep a track of everything they have found in a journal or something?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:21:53 PM)
All of your crafting plans and goals are tracked so that you can see what you have achieved.

GuineaPiegs (Oct 16, 2007 6:22:40 PM)
is there a Create-a-Sim type thing at the beginning?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:22:40 PM)
There is a create-a-sim at the beginning of the game. But the real fun is when you start unlocking and crafting you're own clothing on the island. You'll need to because the clothes you washed up in won't last long and it will affect your sim's comfort.

pitster (Oct 16, 2007 6:23:19 PM)
Can you build houses on the island in the DS version of the game?

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:23:19 PM)
You can build a hut which as you get more and more stuff can get bigger... almost to the point of a house. A hut-house!

abattista (Oct 16, 2007 6:23:57 PM)
Who was the one who came up with the idea for castaway? How long did it take to make?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:23:57 PM)
The theme of castaway is timeless and has always been popular in poetry, literature and TV. We thought it would be fun to give the theme a Sims spin. Even though you're lost on an uncharted island, there are plenty of ways to have fun and make a new life.

Guest (Oct 16, 2007 6:24:07 PM)
do your sims fish in the ocean, like sharks for example?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:24:07 PM)
Yes, and you can catch shark. In fact, shark skin is one of the better resources for making shoes.

Fawkesflames (Oct 16, 2007 6:25:12 PM)
I'm confused, what is the point of the game? Are we meant to populate the island?

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:25:12 PM)
You can create a life for yourself on the island or you can find a way to escape.

Guest (Oct 16, 2007 6:26:31 PM)
Will some of the wild animals harm our sims?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:26:31 PM)
The wild boar are a menace. If you're not careful and haven't crafted a spear, you can't get hurt by a boar attack. If your sim is strong, you can defeat the boar and gain some nice needed resources, like leather and tusks.

Faris-sims (Oct 16, 2007 6:26:43 PM)
How do sims build houses? Is there a build mode or do you actually see them build it?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:26:44 PM)
in order to build, you need to discover resources. As you explore the islands, your Sims will get the idea to use resources for new buildings. These ideas are called Plans. You can use house plans to build pre-configured huts or you can lay out the walls by hand.

sonicroks6 (Oct 16, 2007 6:26:50 PM)
Is there anyone who lived on the island before you shipwrecked

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:26:50 PM)
In the DS game the player will find many different fellow castaways that are scattered on the island. In the PS2, Wii, PSP games the people on the island are the ones that are shipwrecked with you.

Kyle (Oct 16, 2007 6:27:42 PM)
How would you take care of your hygene and bladder needs? Im sure there is no bathroom

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:27:42 PM)
It's an island!! You just go behind a bush. And wash in a stream.

afstandopleren (Oct 16, 2007 6:27:45 PM)
Can the sims invent some sort of communication network on the island?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:27:45 PM)
The Sims communicate using a conch shell. If you want all of your crewmates to come home, you blow the conch shell and they come running.

Guest (Oct 16, 2007 6:27:55 PM)
When picking the cloths is there any type that you would recommend that would last the longest or be the most helpful?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:27:56 PM)
If your skills are good enough and you've collected the best resources, you can make clothing that is essentially degrade-proof. They look nice too!

Faris-sims (Oct 16, 2007 6:28:27 PM)
When will Castaway be released?

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:28:27 PM)
OCT 22

JuBremer (Oct 16, 2007 6:28:51 PM)
this year?

MaxoidGoonter (Oct 16, 2007 6:28:51 PM)
yes

hannahdrew1993 (Oct 16, 2007 6:29:07 PM)
do the clothes look like leaves sewn together? or can you make animal skins clothes?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:29:07 PM)
The first clothing that you craft will look quite primitive, but as you get better at crafting, you can create some awesome looks.

simfantastic2 (Oct 16, 2007 6:29:43 PM)
The PSP version will be released on October 22 too?

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:29:43 PM)
Yes it will! (That was tough to make happen.)

Guest (Oct 16, 2007 6:29:47 PM)
what is your favorite thing in Castaways?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:29:48 PM)
My favorite thing were the chimps. They are funny and mischevious. They're also helpful in gathering resources. I still laugh at what they do to your Sand Buddy when they get annoyed. (It's a surprise!)

phoenixfire1124 (Oct 16, 2007 6:31:07 PM)
Hi! When they return to civilizatoin will they be able to come back?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:31:07 PM)
Yes, you're given the choice to return and basically free play to your hearts content.

simfantastic2 (Oct 16, 2007 6:31:26 PM)
Did any of you go on an island to get an hands-on experience to add your own taste to the game?

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:31:26 PM)
I kept asking to go to Fiji on the company tab. But instead... lots of us went camping. We also watched a lot of Survivorman.

zyros (Oct 16, 2007 6:32:31 PM)
I regards to social goals, will certain amount of friends be required for exploration or upgrades?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:32:31 PM)
we let you tell your story. Do you want to create a complete crew or do you want to survive on your own? All of the goals can be achieved either way, but it might be easier with some friends around.

Ceiba (Oct 16, 2007 6:32:33 PM)
How much do your Sims have to start with?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:32:33 PM)
Nothing. OK, well almost nothing. Just the clothes on their back and a few tools.

Teddy (Oct 16, 2007 6:33:04 PM)
Wait, this isn't an expansion pack, right? Isn't it like Life Stories?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:33:04 PM)
The Sims 2 Castaway is not a PC game. It is coming out for PS2, Wii, DS and PSP.

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:33:36 PM)
There will be a new Sims Stories game called Sims Castaway stories, but it will not be out this year.

Guest (Oct 16, 2007 6:33:37 PM)
Are the monkeys playable characters?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:33:38 PM)
No, the chimps are NPCs only.

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:34:18 PM)
The Sims 2 Castway is more open with lots of exploration, and the Sims Castaway Stories is more directed

VNSIMSNV (Oct 16, 2007 6:34:45 PM)
Will Resources EVER be completely gone? Will they keep "refilling"?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:34:45 PM)
Resources can be used up, but they will "refill" over time. So, no, they will never be completely gone.

Guest (Oct 16, 2007 6:35:18 PM)
Does this have little mini games?

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:35:18 PM)
The DS game has lots of mini games. You can collect bugs (for paint, clothing dye, fish bait, and food); there is a spearfishing minigame; a pole fishing mini game; a fire-making mini-game (with microphone blowing); A pianting activity; musical instrument playing with the microphone. Very realistic yet addictive mini-games based on collecting. My personal favorite is bug hunting because squishing bugs is just plain fun.

Squirrel7284 (Oct 16, 2007 6:35:49 PM)
Can you feed the chimps one of the banannas you have gathered?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:35:49 PM)
yes, you can use bananas to bribe chimps and in return, they will help you by gathering resources.

pitster (Oct 16, 2007 6:36:50 PM)
What do the other castaways do in the DS game? Can they help you get off of the island?

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:36:50 PM)
They do help you. You make friends with them, do stuff for them, they do stuff for you. You find out what their story is; and only with everyone's help can you find your way off the island.

Faris-sims (Oct 16, 2007 6:36:55 PM)
What can sims craft?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:36:56 PM)
The sims craft pretty much everything they need: clothing, shelter, food recipes, tools, and other objects that you would normally see in the typical sims catalog, but with an obvious hand-built style.

mancbird27 (Oct 16, 2007 6:38:31 PM)
will chimps be able to break into your hut and steal resources?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:38:31 PM)
they will steal stuff, but the boar are more challenging to deal with. they'll come and wreck your garden, but you can build a fence to keep them out.

Guest (Oct 16, 2007 6:39:02 PM)
Can a crew member leave or 'run away (meaning he is no longer selectable) if he/she has a squabble with another crew member?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:39:02 PM)
Sims can be added to your tribe. When they do, they are selectable and can be assigned jobs. If you don't like them any more, you can kick them out. They will no longer be selectable and will wander the island.

simfantastic2 (Oct 16, 2007 6:39:49 PM)
Will you find different cultures or items from other civilizations?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:39:49 PM)
yes, you will discover artifacts from a lost civilization. you will even discover ancient ruins that can become the backdrop for you new home.

Guest (Oct 16, 2007 6:40:44 PM)
Does the furniture age?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:40:45 PM)
Furniture can break either because of age or from the results of weather. It's up to you to fix them up with a hammer.

sonicroks6 (Oct 16, 2007 6:41:08 PM)
What do you mean when you say 'assigned jobs'?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:41:08 PM)
You can assign jobs to your crewmates so that they autonomously help out with different tasks like building or resource gathering. That way, you don't have to worry about controlling all of the Sims and you can focus on exploring the islands.

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:41:32 PM)
I would like to also add that a major focus for us was to make the DS game not only the best-looking but also the best-playing Sims DS game yet. We spent a lot of time making controis great and easy - completely stylus-driven. Great attention was given to make each location stunning and filled with collectibles and to make a rich and varied world. Every location has something unique for the player to discover and use. It's actually quite addictive and mini games are great.

Guest (Oct 16, 2007 6:42:29 PM)
Are walls, Floors, Furniture Pickable, or are they just the same each time you play? Is there a catalouge type of thing?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:42:29 PM)
There are 4 styles of shelter pieces that you can use. You start up with typical bamboo and leaves construction. You need to build up to the more advanced levels, where you can build a hut made of stone and windows with glass.

Guest (Oct 16, 2007 6:42:59 PM)
how many people can we create in create a sim?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:43:00 PM)
You can create up to 6 sims.

zak (Oct 16, 2007 6:43:00 PM)
will there be a neigbor hood mode

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:43:00 PM)
The Sims 2 Castaway takes place on 3 uncharted tropical islands. There are dozens of locations. When you've discovered all of the locations, you can return to them and make gardens and homes throughout the islands. The islands become your new neighborhood.

JuBremer (Oct 16, 2007 6:43:33 PM)
and what do u mean its not gonna be relesed this year???

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:43:33 PM)
The Sims 2 Castaway is coming out this year. In fact, it comes out next week

Guest (Oct 16, 2007 6:43:35 PM)
how many islands are there?

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:43:36 PM)
Three. Three separate islands are discovered, unlocked, and explored. They have forests, caves, lagoons, cliffs, and oceans, shipwrecks, dead pirates... you name it.

Squirrel7284 (Oct 16, 2007 6:43:58 PM)
Is it possible to make like a Rowboat with your availible resourses?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:43:58 PM)
Yes, in fact, that's how you get from one island to the other.

Teddy (Oct 16, 2007 6:46:11 PM)
Is there a lot of diversity in this game, or is it really just simple stuff like a campfire, a small cave, and a feather? An example: are there many different types of one item?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:46:12 PM)
There is tons of diversity in the game For example, there are dozens of different homes styles that you can build. There are hundreds of clothing items and an awesome variety of locations as well. You can build homes on the beach, by a lagoon, in the jungle and next to a secret temple. There are so many options for creativity and exploration. It was really fun to work on

Guest (Oct 16, 2007 6:46:19 PM)
Are there lots of places to go around on the island? If there are, then will it take forever to download, like TS2?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:46:19 PM)
There are a lot more areas to explore on the islands. Loading time was a concern for us and Castaway gave us the opportunity to limit the numbers of sims and address this issue that way. It's a lot better.

wrightfan6 (Oct 16, 2007 6:46:45 PM)
is there a certain amount of days to survive

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:47:02 PM)
You can take as much time as you want

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:47:26 PM)
Some people have asked about controls on the DS and how they are different than previous Sims DS games. They are very different -- and alot simpler. We were inspired by the classic and intuitive menu-driven controls of the PC -- and so the controls were adapted to play to the strengths of the DS… exclusively stylus driven (but the camera can be moved with the D-Pad, but it doesn't have to be) . Also, time can be sped up by the shoulder button. But that's it. Point and Go. It really helps with the exploration and collecting parts of the game. We found that the game is very easy to pick up... but we also found that the game is very hard to put down.

mdsb759 (Oct 16, 2007 6:49:00 PM)
How high can houses be? What resources can they be made of?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:49:00 PM)
Huts are only one story. They are crafted from bamboo and palm leaves to clay, stone and hard wood.

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:49:09 PM)
Also some people have asked for more info on the bug collecting minigame in the DS version. Under certain rocks on the island the Sim may find colorful bugs. They can be used as paint for a painting activity, dye for new clothes that you can create on the island, bait for pole fishing (certain fish only like certain bugs), or in desperate times, the bugs can be used as, well, protein.

Nancy01905 (Oct 16, 2007 6:49:45 PM)
what was the diffiuclties making the game?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:49:45 PM)
We had so much fun making this game. There are so many cool ideas that we had about what life would be like for the Sim in this new environment. We couldn't build all of them, but it was a pleasure to work with this concept.

ChatMaster (Oct 16, 2007 6:49:55 PM)
There is 5 minutes left, please submit your final questions if you have them.!

Faris-sims (Oct 16, 2007 6:50:02 PM)
can sims create electronics on the island?

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:50:02 PM)
No. But they could possibly be found.

NohjLepsol (Oct 16, 2007 6:51:11 PM)
What happens when your 'crew' all die? Can you use the island for another 'crew'?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:51:11 PM)
If you let all of your crew members die, your game is over and you have to go back to your last save. However, you it's not terribly hard to stay alive. These islands are tropical and full of resources. If your whole crew dies, you are probably trying to make it happen

mancbird27 (Oct 16, 2007 6:51:24 PM)
can you dig to find resources?

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:51:24 PM)
You can dive...

Ceiba (Oct 16, 2007 6:51:32 PM)
Can Sims live in a cave? Or do they have to make a hut?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:51:32 PM)
There is a cave on one of the isalnds and you can choose to live there, safe from the occasional storms.

Lalala (Oct 16, 2007 6:51:54 PM)
Can your sim bring things with them from island to island?

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:51:54 PM)
Yes indeed.

Lalala (Oct 16, 2007 6:52:14 PM)
Can you sleep out on the *beach?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:52:14 PM)
on the beach, in a hut, next to a waterfall, on a bed, on the ground...your Sims are away from civilization.

FrankyD31 (Oct 16, 2007 6:52:34 PM)
Are there any secret treasures found on the island or in the secret temple that make life easier for your sims?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:52:34 PM)
Yes, but they're secret.

Lavewoman (Oct 16, 2007 6:53:08 PM)
do you have to have sims 2 bon voyage to play castaway?

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:53:08 PM)
No, The Sims 2 Castaway does not require any other games. It is a new game for Wii, PC, PS2, PSP and it's coming out on October 22

gamedana (Oct 16, 2007 6:53:27 PM)
can you go up to a volcanoe?

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:53:27 PM)
Yes, and it has the best view.

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:53:43 PM)
Also, a couple people have asked about food besides fish (and bugs). While the island is challenging for the Sims it also gives them everything that they need. The player can scavenge for food -- all kinds of fruit and berries and vegetables. Eventually your Sim will be able to grow many of the plants in gardens.

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:54:02 PM)
Correction, Wii, PS2, PSP and NDS coming out October 22nd....please excuse the typo

ChatMaster (Oct 16, 2007 6:54:11 PM)
It does NOT come out on PC

mancbird27 (Oct 16, 2007 6:54:30 PM)
wow, diving for treasure?

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:54:30 PM)
Yes. And clams and weird shellfish. And a conch shell that you can play with the DS microphone. If you're lucky.

ChatMaster (Oct 16, 2007 6:54:44 PM)
OK everyone..we're all done!

MaxoidGoonter (Oct 16, 2007 6:54:55 PM)
Thanks everyone!

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:55:00 PM)
Thank you so much for coming. We had a ton of fun making this game and we can't wait to hear how you like it!

MaxoidGoonter (Oct 16, 2007 6:55:10 PM)
Bye all!

CastawayByrt (Oct 16, 2007 6:55:13 PM)
Neato! Thanks! Had fun!

Faris-sims (Oct 16, 2007 6:55:17 PM)
Bye, I had fun!

MaxoidGoonter (Oct 16, 2007 6:55:21 PM)
Seeya!!!

CastawayBen (Oct 16, 2007 6:55:31 PM)
If you post your unanswered questions on the BBS, we'll stop by and answer them.

MaxoidVanquish (Oct 16, 2007 6:55:31 PM)
good bye simmers

MaxoidKitty (Oct 16, 2007 6:55:32 PM)
bye!

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:55:35 PM)
Thank you. Hope that I was helpful.

CastawayRawson (Oct 16, 2007 6:56:09 PM)
And I can answer DS-related questions via the BBS as well.