There are currently two Sims 3 expansion packs. One is pending release for June 2010. While I’m sure there are more Sims 3 expansion packs in the works, let’s take a look at the ones that are out now.

The first Sims 3 expansion pack is titled “World Adventures.” First released in November 2009, this expansion pack allows players to travel around the world to exotic cities with their Sims. The cities that can be explored in this Sims 3 expansion pack are Al Simhara in Egypt, Shang Sim La in China, and Champs les Sims in France. These are obviously fictitious cities, but they are based on cities in the corresponding countries. Along with new cities to explore, there are also a host of new items added in this expansion. Players can outfit their Sims in local outfits and put together new styles upon returning home. Players will also notice a new treasure hunting activity along with new skills and traits. While no new careers were added, players can now choose a playable creature for Mom. Last but not least, some new NPCs were added for players to interact with.

With the upcoming release of “Ambitions”, players will be able to play a game based on their career. This new addition is very exciting for veteran players, as previously career-type actions were very limited. Adding races will present a greater challenge for players. Players must maintain their career and be eligible for promotions. The races will have certain goals based on real life activities associated with that race. Players who choose more social careers may find a requirement for them to gain more friends in their city to advance to the next promotion. There will also be skill-based races. This offers an opportunity for Sims with outstanding abilities to use these abilities in a career. If a sim chooses to be a fisherman, they will be asked to have some fishing skills. Even more careers will be added, including those that are not based on skills like firefighters who can fight fires.