Hobbies And Interests
Attributes for an Easier Game
If this is your first time playing "The Sims 2" or you just want an easier game, pick the attributes that will best help you to achieve your Sim's goals. Put your attribute points into "Shy/Outgoing" and "Grouchy/Nice" to make social interactions easier by creating a friendly Sim that seeks social attention. If you want your Sim to succeed at work put points into "Lazy/Active" to make it easier for him to improve his skills.
Optional Attributes
Some attributes are not as important to the game-play as others, so putting points here will be a matter of personal taste. If you plan on hiring a maid for your Sim you can sacrifice points in "Sloppy/Neat" to use elsewhere since his house will stay clean regardless. The "Serious/Playful" attribute is mostly for role playing purposes as both a serious and a playful Sim can be successful in both social interactions and career building.
Zodiac Signs and Attributes
Every Sim in "The Sims 2" has a zodiac sign and your Sim will automatically receive one based on the attributes you assign him. However, you can also pick the zodiac sign yourself, which will automatically assign your Sim the attributes associated with that sign. This is a quicker way to assign attributes and create easier social interaction, since each zodiac sign lists the signs that are compatible and non-compatible with your Sim. Create a household of Sims with compatible zodiac signs to ensure that they get along.
Role-Playing with Sims
In some cases you may wish for your Sim to have what might usually be considered negative traits for the purposes of role-playing. Not every person in real life is neat, outgoing or friendly and you may find it more fun to play a grouchy neighbor or a sloppy slacker. Likewise, putting one of these Sims in a home with your other Sims makes for an interesting contrast that keeps the drama high and provides storytelling opportunities when they butt heads.