The Sims 3 is a life simulation game developed by Maxis and published by Electronic Arts. It is the third main game in the Sims series and was released in 2009. Players create and control virtual people, called Sims, managing their lives, relationships, careers, and desires. The game features an open, procedurally generated neighborhood, allowing Sims to roam freely without loading screens between locations. With a vast array of customization options for Sims and their homes, The Sims 3 offers endless possibilities for storytelling and emergent gameplay.