The massive success of games like "The Sims" proved that people like controlling virtual people, leading the way for virtual simulation games geared specifically toward babies. Gamers can take a break from gunning down aliens and running sports teams and find out what its like to take care of a newborn baby. These virtual baby simulation games let players see what it's like to raise and nurture a baby without all the messy details that come with raising a real-life baby.
Imagine: Babyz
Ubisoft Entertainment, the same publisher that developed the "Petz" animal simulation series, released "Imagine: Babyz," a virtual baby simulation game for the Nintendo DS in October 2007. The game, developed by Visual Impact Productions, lets gamers care for up to six cooing babies. Players use the Nintendo DS stylus to spoon-feed their babies, push them on swings and wash them in the bathtub. The game also uses the DS microphone, which players can use to blow bubbles for their babies. Mini-games involve performing chores such as vacuuming and mowing lawns, to earn extra money to buy new clothes, food and toys for the babies.
Baby Luv
Spellbound Entertainment AG developed "Baby Luv," released for PC in 2008. The game, published by GameMill Publishing, Inc., allows players to both design and care for a newborn baby. Using a computer mouse, gamers can choose their babies' gender, skin color and hairstyle. After designing their babies, players take care of them by performing six tasks in different rooms. These include changing diapers, washing, feeding and playing. By completing these tasks and making their babies happy, players earn credits and are able to purchase new toys, diapers, food, etc.
My Baby: First Steps
The Nintendo Wii game "My Baby: First Steps" hit US store shelves in November 2009. Developed by Dancing Dots Studio, the game is a sequel to the NIntendo DS games "My Baby Boy" and "My Baby Girl." Players in this virtual baby simulation game start the game with a one-year-old infant whom they must raise to a three-year-old. Players feed, play and nurture their babies and see them through developments like first steps and first words. "My Baby: First Steps" also allows players to purchase new toys and haircuts for their charges.
Tags: their babies, Baby First, Baby First Steps, baby simulation, First Steps