I chose simulation because I definitely want the simulation there. If I choose gloomy, self-absorbed and evil traits for my Sim, by golly you can be sure that I want my Sim to act gloomy, evil, and self-absorbed without me having to choose specific actions or conversations for them. So I do like the sandbox aspect of getting to select what drives my Sim and why, but I want more of the game's acknowledgement of my selections to play out autonomously. That's the balance that I'm always seeking.
Edit: Also, I'd rather the game comes with full simulation mechanics that I can just use cheats (or mods) to play how I like, rather than have that aspect be absent altogether and be forced to play one specific way. It's harder to add simulation than it is to cheat around it, in my experience.
