If you click on a link and make a purchase we may receive a small commission. Read our editorial policy.

The Sims hits 100 million

"Ouch," says 100 million.

EA has announced that The Sims has sold 100 million units worldwide, GamesIndustry.biz reports.

The first game in the series appeared in 2000, and the franchise has gone on to become what EA says is the best-selling PC game franchise of all time. It is sold in 22 languages and 60 countries around the world.

4.3 million unique visitors are attracted to The Sims 2 online community each month, and they have downloaded more than 70 million user-generated creations. In addition, more than 100,000 videos and movies of The Sims have been shared on YouTube.

"At this milestone, we want to thank players of The Sims everywhere for making The Sims such a worldwide phenomenon," said Rod Humble, head of studio for The Sims Label.

"The Sims has been an interactive experience for people around the globe to explore their passion for creativity and we're thrilled to be a part of that.

"From building houses and relationships, from the first kiss to a toddler's first step, from kitchen fires - and even visits from ghosts, players have told more than 100 million unique and fun stories!"

To celebrate, visitors to TheSims2.com website today can download a complimentary exclusive outfit for their Sims. In theory, anyway - we get a blank page.

Reports that the complimentary exclusive outfit is a tuxedo made of money are thought to be quite terrible punchlines even for this time of the morning.