Many of the Internet based simulations and models (like The Life Cycle of a Frog) require Adobe Flash compatible systems. Adobe Flash is downloadble, for free from the Adobe Flash website.

Software requirements:
Windows: Intel Premium II 450MHz (or faster) processor and 128MB of RAM.
Mactintosh: PowerPC G3 500MHz (or faster) processor and 128MB of RAM.
Cost: Free download.
Licensing: CLICK HERE for Adobe Licensing.
Suppliers: www.adobe.com/products/flashplayer

The Sims is the first of a series of programs that began with The Sims and includes:
- The Sims Hot Date
- The Sims House Party
- The Sims Living Large
- The Sims Makin’ Magic
- The Sims Superstar
- The Sims Unleashed
- The Sims Vacation

The Sims 2 is the sequal to the first program and the expansion packs include:
- The Sims 2 University
- The Sims 2 Nightlife
- The Sims 2 Holiday Party Pack
- The Sims 2 Open for Business
- The Sims 2 Family Fun
- The Sims 2 Glamour Life
- The Sims 2 Pets
- The Sims 2 Happy Holidays
- The Sims 2 Seasons
- The Sims 2 Celebration
- The Sims 2 H&M

NB: Some expansion packs are rated PG and beyond. User discretion must be considered.

The Sims is also available on Playstation 2 and Nintendo DS. For the purpose of the essay, the original program The Sims remains the focus.

Software requirements:
Windows:
OS – Windows Vista/XP/2000/98
Processor – 450MHz Intel Pentium II Processor
Memory – 128MB RAM
HDD – 3.8GB (for base game and all expansions)
Video Card – 4MB VIdeo Card or greater, 16-bit Colour Capable
CD Drive Speed – 4x
Sound Card – DirectX 7.0 compatible
DirectX version – DirectX 7.0
(Taken from Simprograms website)
Mactintosh:
CPU Speed in MHz – 233MHz
RAM – 64MB
Hard Drive Space: 350MB
CD Drive Speed – 8x
Video RAM in MB – 2MB
Graphics Resolution(s): 800×600
Compatible Devices – Software DirectX 5.0 etc, Quicktime 4.0
(taken from AllGame website)
Cost: Base game and expansion packs cost around $20 or less. The Sims 2 and expansion packs cost approx. $49.95+
Licensing: CLICK HERE for EA Games Licencing.
Suppliers: Available at gaming stores such as EB Games, Gametraders and Ezygames (online store). Also available through Amazon.