From the outset, the game feels new and exciting, with an entertaining opening movie narrated by Sir Patrick Stewart – a video game voiceover veteran – setting the scene for the task ahead. While the premise remains true to the Sims heritage, playing as individual characters, this time you must also achieve a “Kingdom Ambition”, chosen at the start of your game to determine the fate of your realm and its citizens. For example, you may choose Imperial Domination to expand your empire or Wealthy Populace to fill your coffers.