Going to butt in here.
I really like the tools being provided now. I can't really compare with 3 though I only played it for a week in the beginning then about 10 hours total a few years back with a starter pack. However compared with 2 I have much more control over my sims through things like the club system now and the calendar/holiday system, lot traits, building wherever I want, grouping sims up, different lot types which allow me to tell stories better (especially the generic lot.. long may it live .. even if I do want them to add having club meetings available there). I know some folks don't like it but the control over how I want to play the game is one of the major reasons that I love it. I'm hoping the new fame system and the new reputation system will let us keep control and admittedly I'm a bit scared for that. I am looking forward to it though.. I have to see. My fingers are crossed but I have faith they will give us options somehow.
