The Sims 3 Gets Microtransactions and Day One DLC (Updated)

Update: The downloadable "Riverview" town for The Sims 3 that launches alongside the game on June 2 will be free, EA has informed Shacknews. As for the SimPoints-cash conversation ratio, 1000 SimPoints will run $10, not including any applicable taxes.

Original: Unveiling The Sims 3's online features, EA has announced a microtransaction store selling in-game items and plans for sizeable downloadable content on release.

In-game items such as "the must-have new outfit" or "the latest style of plaid furniture" will be sold in The Sims 3 Store for SimPoints--a virtual currency bought in lots of 500, 1000 and 2000 points. Shacknews has contacted EA for the cash-points exchange rate.

Available as downloadable content when the game is released on June 2 will be Riverview, a second town. We've asked EA to clarify whether this will be free or paid.

Such offerings are not new to the series, with The Sims 2 being supported by no less than nine "Stuff" bundles of items and eight conventional expansion packs sold in stores. 1000 SimPoints will be included with The Sims 3 for players to sample the store.

EA also revealed plans for its TheSims3.com website, including "My Page" personal blogs for players and "My Studio" to upload and share creations from the movie editor.