Like most Sims titles players start out by creating a character. The elements don’t get too wacky, as the title is for everyone. But Sims can wear a variety of different clothing colors and hairstyles. From there the game opens up goals that must be completed at each location, much like the console version. But that’s where the similarities end.

For the first time a player has direction control of their Sim using the D-pad. Instead of clicking objects to interact with them, players just move to each object and push A. It’s simple, less tedious, and gives it an RPG feel. Next, players can interact with other Sims by walking up to them and talking. You can choose from a variety of things to say - some nice and some not. For example you can compliment someone or ask if their face is a result of falling face down on the pavement one too many times. The choice of words affects your relationship with that character, and you’ll see the traditional plus and minus friendship marks to indicate its status.

Players can wander in the world of SimValley and there’s plenty to see. You start out at your Uncle Hayseeds’ farm and start to build up your own pad in his barn. Instead of buying items out of a menu, Sims can now pick up objects and place them in their pocket. Stick a couch, chicken statue, anything in your pocket to use or give to someone later. The level goals range from moving furniture to gathering missing chickens.

The caretaking aspect of Bustin’ Out is kept to an efficient minimum. If the character needs to sleep, sit, watch tv, or socialize, do so and the meter will be filled in no time. It lets players concentrate more on their goals and less on babysitting. As an extra players can hook up a GBA to boost skills, trade items, on the road and open up a new location, Paradise Island.

The visuals in Bustin’ Out are surprisingly detailed and fluid. The characters animation with clay-mation smoothness and have the traditional fun animations that Sim fans are used to. If you need to go to the bathroom you’ll see your character hop and take out a newspaper in one motion. The music is a mix of classic Sim music remixed into new tunes. You’ll hear music that’s specific to each location and the tunes never get annoying.

There are a few slight problems with the game. Player’s goals are listed but it’s not always clear as to how one is supposed to approach the problem. Some stores are only open at certain times, so if you miss the opportunity you’ll have to wait till the next day to head back.

Sims Bustin’ Out on GBA can be best described as the first Sims RPG. It’s a great title to play at home or on the road and takes the game in a brand new direction. The simplified gameplay may turn off big Sim fans, but the new gameplay should keep most players in a good mood.