Every gamer has a friend addicted to The Sims 2, the computer game series that lets you take control over simulated people in a neighborhood. With The Sims 2 Pets, you can create a Sims best friend -- a lovable and loyal dog or a finicky cat -- from a seemingly endless list of breeds. You can tweak their looks, accessories, markings, even their personalities with this expansion disc (you need The Sims 2 to play Pets). Instead of controlling the pet directly, you still control your Sims characters and get to watch as your beloved pet adjusts to its new home. Our dog, Scooter, spent time harmlessly chasing his tail in the kitchen, but we wouldn't stand for him chewing on the couch. You can punish your pets to curb bad behavior or reward them by buying toys or giving food. We pampered our pooch by taking him for a long walk in the park and purchasing pricy dog houses. You can also teach them tricks to impress the neighbors.

Animals can also take on jobs -- as rescue animals, security guards and movie extras -- and make some cash of their own to buy additional goodies. Our dog tried to make it in Hollywood, but the going was rough. You can buy other small critters such as birds and fish or download free bonus pets -- such as Hilary Duff's dog, Lola -- from thesims2.com. Our only real pet peeve is the questionable artificial intelligence -- a fire broke out at one point, yet Scooter inexplicably rested right in front of it. What's next, showing a burglar where we keep the jewels?