EA Games has announced several of its new games will be playable online on the PS2. These include The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King, Need for Speed Underground, Medal of Honor Rising Sun and... The Sims Bustin' Out. The last title is of course the one we're interested in. In an online game, two players can play cooperative online, use an "online trading system" (where players can exchange unlockable interactions and objects), and a matchmaker screen. Here's the bit from the press release:

"The Sims Bustin’ Out will feature two-player cooperative gameplay online, which lets players work their way through any of the game’s unique career paths. The game will also feature an online trading system that will allow players to swap unlockable social interactions such as Pull Finger and Moonwalk or objects like a Climbing Wall and DJ Booth. In addition to bestowing bragging rights, these wacky social interactions and highly coveted objects will also affect the gameplay. Online play will also feature a lobby where a matchmaker screen displays the astrological signs, genders, and personalities of other Sims, so that players can effectively choose their gaming partners. Since two Sims are better than one at getting the job done, online play will make it even easier to accomplish goals, satisfy motives, and get your Sims into trouble in The Sims Bustin’ Out."

The game (as well as the other 3) will also include support for USB headsets to chat hands-free. For all these features, an internet connection to your PS2 (using a network adapter) and a memory card are required. A broadband connection is required for hands-free chatting, and recommended for playing online. To read the whole press release, which includes details for the other games as well, click here.