What's this? Another H-Mail? What a rip off! Where's Tim?
*clears throat* Sorry, couldn't resist! :)

We've got another H-Mail and all you builders out there will probably be thrilled about what Hunter has to share this time! Elevators, split levels, more roofing options... feeling all happy inside yet? Keep reading!

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Hey Sim Fans!

What�s this? Another H-Mail? What a rip off! Where�s Tim?

Well, I hope that�s not what you guys are saying. It�s Hunter, back to give you some more information about Open for Business. Specifically, a little info about our new building features in the pack. Everybody loves build mode!

First off: awnings. These are awesome! Take a look at the picture below, which shows our modern awning in action. You can build them off of the building or as stand-alone structures (like gazebos.) The coolest thing is that you can build them out in all kinds of shapes, so you can make a T shape, a cross, or whatever. We have these modern awnings, some more traditional commercial awnings, and a really cute �storybook� style that feels like it�s out of a fairy tale.

The Modern Awning

Next up, elevators! You guys have all heard about how they work (at least I think you have), but here�s a little refresher. You�ve got two elevators, and two pieces for each: a door/shaft piece and a shaft piece. Obviously, each floor you want Sims to be able to stop off at needs a door piece, which is a 2 x 3 object (2 x 2 with reserved tiles in front). These can go in any direction you want (yes, magical Sims elevators can rotate mid-trip),and require a shaft piece for any floors you want the elevator to �Skip�. Elevators have the fun bonus of sometimes breaking and sending Sims for a crazy plummet that will slam the needs. Needs too low? Yep. Sim doom. If you want to avoid this fate, you should probably avoid WooHoo in it. Here�s a picture of what the elevator looks like from the inside!

Elevator Interior

Third feature: split levels! I�ve been hoping for these for quite a while. Personally, I�ve always been frustrated by having to build an entire floor as a flat space. When you�re looking in the real world, especially in public places, you see raised areas to break the monotony. This tool allows you to create a raised area without workarounds or creating a new floor level. The tool doesn�t create a new room, so these can actually be used as stages or little pavillions. I�m sure you guys will come up with some great uses for these. Here are some examples in a business setting and a home setting.

Split Levels at a Coffeeshop

Split Levels at Home

Lastly, new roofs! We have added domes, cones, and octagons for your building pleasure. Just like with normal roofs, you just pick the tool and drag out the region that you would like the roof to be contained in. Here�s a picture of a house that combines a number of the new options in one little package. The windmill in back is a new neighborhood �ploppable.�

New Roofs

Not a bad assortment! This is a great pack for for building. Our team is looking forward to seeing what realistic, elegant, or crazy businesses you guys choose to make.

-Hunter

PS:
This thing is gonna be in boxes soon! Yay!

Hunter Howe
Designer: Sims 2 Expansion Packs