If you're unfamiliar with The Sims franchise...well, the very fact that you're here visiting a gaming blog, I'm just going to assume that you ARE familiar with this mega-blockbuster franchise.

From it's roots on the PC to it's past console forays, there's never been a Sims game quite like what is coming to the Nintendo Wii. MySims seems to be an amalgamation of those past Sims games with the added touches of a little Lego Star Wars and Animal Crossing thrown in for good measure. Gamespot got some private time with the game and they have a nice preview up that highlights all the major bullet points.

Customization is one of the key elements of any Sims title and according to the preview, MySims will take this aspect of the franchise to a whole new level.

"As in the previous games in the Sims series, you'll have plenty to choose from when it comes to customizing your alter ego, though it must be noted that the character models in this game are quite a bit different form the longer, leaner characters of the traditional PC and console Sims games. Somewhere in between anime figurines, blocky Lego models, and the Wii's own Miis is perhaps the best way to describe them."

In addition to the character customization, for the first time players will be able to actually build their own oblects and furniture.

In addition to creating a home for your sims, you'll be able to create all the furnishings and items in the game using an interface that's tentatively titled "create-a-thing." Basically, you'll work off of a few basic components: the blueprints for various items, including all the game's furniture --- Fans of the console versions of The Sims who enjoyed the previous games' collection gameplay won't be disappointed by create-a-thing, since there will apparently be dozens of essences and about 30 different types of basic item classes (coffee tables, chairs, beds, and so on) for which you can collect blueprints. Crafting items will play a key role in MySims, since they'll be a key part of the tasks you'll perform to get in good with your neighbors and eventually develop your town.

Presently, the game is only at the pre-alpha stage but it is scheduled for release this fall on the Wii and DS. Whenever it comes out I foresee a whole new wave of gamers (especially females) lining up at retailers around the world. Gamespot also has a video interview with the games developer if you'd like a little more insight.