Introduction

Bustin' Out is the follow-up of the original Sims on the consoles, which was released early 2003. This brand new version allows your Sims to go to a ton of different places, including the homes of other Sims. If you still need to decide whether to buy this game on your favourite console, read the reviews below. If you want to know more about the GameBoy Advance version of Bustin' Out, check out our Bustin' Out (GBA) Review Index.

Below we show you the conclusions and scores of the reviews. To read the complete reviews, and in some cases see more specific scores, click the title of the site to go to the review on the originating site. The console(s) the review was written for is put in after the site, with these abbreviations:
PS2: PlayStation 2
GCN: GameCube
XB: X-Box

Note that the game is very similar on all three consoles, so reading an X-Box review while you own a PS2 won't do any harm. In case the review is posted several times (once for every console), the console abbreviations will be linked instead of the site title. In case there are different reviews for each of the consoles on one site, you will see multiple entries for that site, with the console the review was written for behind the name. Enjoy the list, we hope it helps you making your decision.

3DAvenue (XB)

"The Sims: Bustin' Out is one of the more enjoyable games in the franchise. The different places to live as well as many career paths and great graphics make this quite an enjoyable game to play. If you've loved The Sims on PC, then this game will be right up your alley and even if you haven't liked the PC version much, the fact this game actually has goals and different paths etc may make this game more appealing."

Final score: 80 out of 100

Electronic Gaming Monthly (GCN)

"Good: New unlockables spice up the Story and Free Play modes
Bad: Your Sim missing the bus to work…by ONE minute
We're So Glad: Sims with cars not equals Sims driving minigames"

Final score: 9.0 - 8.5 - 9.0 out of 10

Note: 3 small reviews in one

GameNikki (PS2)

"If you're a fan of The Sims on the PC or on the console, you must buy Bustin' Out. Consider the game to be the last 'must buy' Sims title before the upcoming sequel, since the experience differs so much from the usual Sims gameplay. Renting the game is also an option-especially if you're low on real-life Simoleans-but the replay value and pure fun of Bustin' Out propel this PlayStation 2 title to a purchase recommendation. The Xbox version still staves off the competition to remain king of the hill, but the online multiplayer with the PS2 puts a definite feather in Sony's cap for exclusive content."

Final score: 8 out of 10

GameNikki (GCN)

"If you're a fan of The Sims on the PC or on the console, and if you have the money for a Memory Card 251 or already own a nearly empty one, you must buy Bustin' Out. Consider the game to be the last 'must buy' Sims title before the upcoming sequel, since the experience differs so much from the usual Sims gameplay. Renting the game is also an option-especially if you're low on real-life Simoleans-but you'd still need a fresh memory card just to play, so perhaps you're better off just purchasing or forgetting the title."

Final score: 8 out of 10

GameNikki (XB)

"If you're a fan of The Sims on the PC or on the console, you must buy Bustin' Out. Consider the game to be the last 'must buy' Sims title before the upcoming sequel, since the experience differs so much from the usual Sims gameplay. Renting the game is also an option---especially if you're low on real-life Simoleans---but the replay value and pure fun of Bustin' Out propel this Xbox title to a purchase recommendation."

Final score: 8.5 out of 10

GameNow (GCN)

"You could devote all your waking hours to playing Bustin' Out. It's that addictive."

Final score: A

GamePro (PS2, GCN, XB)

"If you're a Sims fan, Bustin' Out will hold your attention for a while, but it's certainly not the second coming that Sims 2 promises to be. Yeah, the Sims finally get to move out…but it's really about time they moved on."

Final score: 4.0 out of 5

GameRaiders (PS2, GCN, XB)

"If you liked the first release of the Sims on the console market, you definitely won't be disappointed with the new additions here."

Final score: 85 out of 100

Gamer-Talk (GCN)

"Overall, The Sims: Bustin' Out is an enjoyable game...if you're a fan of the series. By the way, if you're interested in buying this game, be sure to invest in a new memory card, as this sucker takes 161 blocks. Though it has new gameplay aspects, like goals and some new customization options, this is just another soldier added to Maxis's army of expansion packs."

Final score: 7.5 out of 10

Game Revolution (PS2, GCN, XB)

"The addition of goals and plenty of different unlockable locations and items does breathe new life into this old game, and slower meters and a more responsive interface lead to a good version of The Sims. However, this game is very similar to the original PS2 version and might not feel filling enough for those who already made that purchase. Despite some hefty load times, a poorly implemented two-player mode, and the less-than-intuitive Build controls, this is still The Sims, an absorbing and fun game and definitely more comfortable to delve into for the long hours from the coziness of your own couch."

Final score: B

GamesDomain (PS2, GCN, XB)

"Ultimately, Bustin' Out feels more like a PC-style expansion pack to the original Sims console game. It adds just enough to keep fans interested, but doesn't fix all the flaws or reinvent the game. With that said, the game has more focus, a bit more style, a lot more to do, and a definite ending if you choose to pursue it."

Final score: 4 out of 5

GameSpot (PS2, GCN, XB)

"All three versions feature the goal-based bust out mode, the free-form free play mode, and two-player cooperative multiplayer that lets you play through either of the other modes with a friend--a great improvement over the throwaway multiplayer modes in the previous game. All things considered, The Sims Bustin' Out makes good, solid improvements over its predecessor and stands on its own as a great version of The Sims for consoles."

Final score: 8.3 out of 10

Note: Different screenshots with each version

GameSpy (PS2)

"Exclusive to the PS2 version of this game, owners with a broadband connection can join a friend online, where your sims can befriend and visit one another. In online mode, the game supports two-way communication via USB keyboard or voice chat. This feature will enhance the game for many, but would have been better implemented had the title not already suffered from frequent graphical hiccups offline. There are simply too many complex animations taking place most of the time for the PS2 to keep up with. Still, overall this game remains thoroughly addictive and is worth picking up if you're interested in a fun diversion with a reasonable shelf life.

Now if you'll excuse me, I've got to go replace that rug. "

Final score: 4 out of 5

Note: Review is similar to the GCN and XB versions

GameSpy (GCN)

"On the downside, presumably due to the vast amount of customization options, the main game requires a gargantuan 161 blocks of memory card space. Still, when all's said and done, this was my favorite version of Bustin' Out. Although the graphics are sharper on the Xbox version and the PS2 version boasts online multiplay, the GCN-to-GBA connectivity feature gives this one a notable edge.

Now if you'll excuse me, I've got to go scrape those burgers off the carpet. "

Final score: 4 out of 5

Note: Review is similar to the PS2 and XB versions

GameSpy (XB)

"On the one hand, there's not a trace of the mild jagginess seen on the GCN and PS2 versions here, and certainly none of the visual lag that occurs with some regularity on the PS2 version (both online and offline). On the other hand, the camera zooms in and out to the exact same distance in all three versions, so the enhanced resolution doesn't reveal much in the way of new detail here. Still, of the three versions, this is clearly the sharpest.

Now if you'll excuse me, I've got to go see a man about a horse."

Final score: 4 out of 5

Note: Review is similar to the PS2 and GCN versions

GamesRadar (GCN)

"It's certainly an interesting experience and the slow-burning nature of the action is compelling enough to draw you in for the 30 or so hours it'll take you to work through the game's main mode. Even after you've finished with one Sim you can go back and play through again to explore the other career choices in the game. After that, the game's Free Play mode will serve as an amusing digital sandpit for you to tinker with for some time to come."

Final score: 82%

GameZilla (PS2)

"Although The Sims Bustin Out is a fine addition to the series, it still won’t be for everyone. If you didn’t see what the fuss was about with the first few Sims games, then Bustin’ Out won’t change your opinion much. After all, monitoring a Sim’s bowel movements or arranging furniture to achieve domestic bliss just won’t hit home with everyone. If you’re one of the many that do get it, however, then Bustin’ Out will keep you entertained for hours on end."

Final score: 3.1 out of 5 (Average) / Fans Only

GameZilla (XB)

"Even though it feels more like an expansion pack than a new game, the improvements that were made are probably adequate for fans. If you became tired of the last release or haven’t played The Sims before, The Sims Bustin’ Out is definitely a candidate to rent before purchasing."

Final score: 3.3 out of 5 (Average) / Fans Only

GameZone (PS2)

"It's time to party The Sims-style because The Sims Bustin' Out is just wilder and more addictive than the original. There are plenty of modes here to satisfy everyone and the fact that you can go out to different locations is just the icing on an already sweet cake. While the ability to go online and visit friends at their pads, it just would have been a lot better to have a Sims Online community to interact with since voice chat is available. Still, gamers will love all the new options and the always-appreciated Free Play mode. Buy this one if you're a fan of The Sims or would like to experience it for the very first time."

Final score: 8.2 out of 10

GameZone (GCN)

"Overall, The Sims Bustin' Out is a marked improvement over the previous console outing and offers up enough interesting incentives to stay entertained for nearly 20 hours. The GameCube to GBA connectivity feature is a perfect addition for those who own the handheld version of the game, and the new co-op multiplayer option substantially enhances the experience of playing both the free-for-all and Bust Out modes. While some may complain that Bustin' Out is more of an expansion pack than a true follow-up, it's hard to deny the addictiveness and consistent satisfaction that the title brings to the table. If you're a fan of the series then you simply cannot go wrong with Bustin' Out"

Final score: 8.6 out of 10

Gaming Age (XB)

"The Sims Bustin Out is another sim experience that could be the first expansion pack for consoles. There is more freedom in career choices, less intense caretaking, plus a few console specific features. But the gameplay is old hat for previous console players."

Final score: C+ (Good)

IGN (PS2, GCN, XB)

"If you're a Sims fanatic, you'll probably pick this up -- regardless -- because there's more unlocking for you do. If you were on the fence, Bustin' Out gives you more reasons to get into the game (on consoles at least). However, if you're indifferent, than you'll find no compelling reason to get involved. Hopefully, Mr. Wright's next project will be more than an update, but a full fledged sequel."

Final score: 8.0 out of 10 (PS2, XB) and 8.2 out of 10 (GCN)

Note: Different screenshots for the PS2 version, and minor differences in text between each version. The GC version seems to get a slightly different overall rating because of the GBA/GCN link.

Microsoft Xbox World (XB)

"The Sims Bustin Out is a brave move by its producers and publisher to release a game on console which has become so huge on PC due to its diverse nature. Some could argue that its merely a sloppy conversion of the PC game with none of the sparkle, simply vying for consumers cash. Others could argue that its a great version tailored for the console generation of games players who dont need or want to update every month. Some may even say that as a first step into the Sims world this is a great way to get involved to see what the fuss is about. I say, all of the above and it could have been so much more on Xbox. A wasted opportunity but still a good game overall."

Final score: 7 out of 10

Next Level Gaming / UnderGround Online (PS2, GCN, XB)

"One sidenote; this is a game for people with a lot of time on their hands. You can spend hours at a sitting playing this. Remember, the game plays at YOUR pace, and not it's own. This is a game without winners and losers. It's all about the personal satisfaction, and engrossing yourself in a wonderful game. Yes, I said a wonderful game."

Final score: 86 our of 100 / B+

Official U.S. PlayStation Magazine (PS2)

"Bustin' Out is pretty much the perfect sequel—it corrects some of the previous game's weaknesses, adds cool new features, and still maintains the core vision and playability of the last game. It might not be as novel as the previous game, but it supplies more of what was so good in the first game. For the legions of Simmers, this is the best surreal life you'll live on your PS2."

Final score: 4.5 out of 5

TeamXbox.com (XB)

"There is very little to complain about gameplay wise in the latest Sims title, aside from the fact that it won’t make converts to those that find the premise of a life simulator boring. If you love The Sims, get Bustin' Out. If you are sitting on the fence, there is no better way to experience the world of the Sims for the first time. If you'd rather stick a hot poker in your eye than play a life simulator, then don't bother. As for me, I have two words...thanks Maxis!"

Final score: 4.3 out of 5

TotalGames.net (GCN)

"The Sims Bustin' Out adds logical improvements to an already winning formula without blowing us away with any stunning revelations. Although it's not really feasible for consoles, our earlier statement still stands - if this was an expansion pack (with an expansion pack price) The Sims Bustin’ Out would make a time devouring title even more absorbing. As a standalone title, with a £40 sticker, you could feel like you've been given the same game but wearing different coloured trousers. Nicer trousers, admittedly -- perhaps with flashing lights attached -- but still trousers."

Final score: 82%

TotalGames.net (XB)

"So what's new in Bustin' Out? The main change is he freedom given to your Sims. You can take them out and about to visit friends' houses, take them to the gym, to the art gallery, a disco and even to the local laboratory. It's a feature that should have been included in the original game - only now that Sims can mingle freely in a neighbourhood does it become an obvious omission from previous games. Apart form this feature though, there is little else that's new."

Final score: 80%

Xbox Solution (XB)

"Simply addictive, though at times boring. The need to constantly watch after your Sims meters for fun, social interaction, hunger, bladder etc. becomes almost tedious. I often found my Sim waking up to do the same activities day in and day out to make enough money for a new TV. The power of course is in your hands as to how you go about things, I soon found myself quitting work to pursue a home career designing and selling Rocket Powered Lawn Gnomes. Once I began working at home my Sim had all the time in the world and plenty of time to pursue romantic endeavors and other interests of that nature. In closing I am still mildly addicted and will continue to pop this game in the Xbox from time to time, I think I hear it calling me right now..."

Final score: 9.1 out of 10

Written at 02:26 2003n Wednesday 24 December 2003 by ChEeTaH.
Last updated at 15:42 2004n Sunday 11 January 2004.