There are moments of serenity, too

Also shows fishing

In a few weeks' time, The Sims will be changed forever: finally the commands you shout at your characters will actually make a difference, as The Sims 3 Pets is due to launch on Kinect. EA just sent over a batch of new screenshots showing the game and its menagerie in action.

Barking orders isn't the only new feature in the game though: your dog will join you on treasure hunting trips, while your cat can help in tracking down ghosts, of course. Presumably the horse stands on its hind legs and performs a stand-up routine.

The Kinect-supporting life simulator comes to Xbox 360 in a few weeks' time.

THE SIMS 3 PETS
FUN AWAITS WITH MAN’S BEST FRIEND

For years, humans and their animals have always been the best of friends, just like Timmy and Lassie, John and Garfield and Roy and Trigger, humans and their pets have shared a special bond. Today, to celebrate these friendships, The Sims 3 Pets releases seven all-new screen shots that showcase the ways in which pets can become man’s (or woman’s) best friend in the game. From playing tug-o-war, to riding around town in style on horseback, Sims can interact with all of their pets in a variety of activities, games and challenges.

On console, players will find their pet dogs are helpful guides to sniffing out buried treasure and uncovering mysteries that will lead to in-game rewards. Pet cats are equally as helpful, especially when it comes to hunting down supernatural ghosts that may stop by for a surprise visit or two. Nintendo 3DS players will discover all new ways to juggle their bustling households of pets and can even trade pets among friends through Nintendo StreetPass. On PC/Mac, Players will explore the new western-themed town while riding along with their horses, seeking out adventures and entering competitions at the local equestrian center.

The Sims 3 Pets is currently available for pre-order at the EA Store and will be on store shelves October 18 for Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Nintendo 3DS and as an Expansion Pack on PC/Mac. For more information on The Sims 3 Pets for console and the PC/Mac Expansion Pack and all other The Sims 3 games, visit www.TheSims3.com.