A milestone in the world of computer games was reached Wednesday as "The Sims" game has sold 100 million copies since its launch in 2000. (File Photo) Photo Gallery>>>

    BEIJING, April 17 (Xinhuanet) -- A milestone in the world of computer games was reached Wednesday as "The Sims" game has sold 100 million copies since its launch in 2000.

    The 100-million mark, which publisher Electronic Arts Inc. announced Wednesday, puts "The Sims" in the ranks of blockbuster franchises such as Nintendo's Mario and Pokemon games, which have sold more than 201 million and 175 million units respectively.

    It has been published in 60 countries and 22 languages, and generated some 4 billion U.S. dollars in sales over the past eight years.

    Nancy Smith, who leads EA's Sims Label, said the line of games is "truly unique in the world of interactive entertainment because it attracts creative people around the world of all ages and both genders."

    Today 60 percent of the game's players are women, still a rarity among video games, which are dominated by first-person shooters and titles aimed at 20-something men and teenage boys.

    Since its launch, EA has released dozens of add-on packs, spin-off games and ports to various console units. The company released The Sims 2 in 2004 and recently announced that The Sims 3 will be released next year.

    (Agencies)