First, shallow, impression. Shallow because I had to cut it short due to company arriving. First of all it is a gorgeous world. BUT, I think I would like it a bit bigger. However, haven't even really begun to explore it thoroughly and there really might be enough. Plenty of buildable lots, which is a big deal for me, and quite a few inexpensive places to call your own that are not as shabby/ugly as most that have been built. Low level but adequate appliances etc. but nice looking and good enough for a starter home. First time I did not immediately have to hammer junk and start over with the shell so for me, that says a lot. There are chickens!!! You can't play with them, (at least I haven't figured out how), but the way it is in rural Hawaii you find chickens roaming everywhere so very authentic. As a matter of fact, it really looks like Hawaii/Polynesia. I've not been near the volcano yet, but stuck to my little house on the beach. I did cross over a bridge, (actually she swam over instead of following my desire to have her cross the bridge), and got pretty tired because it was a long way. I made a big mistake. I chose spring time as my beginning time and it does pretty much nothing but rain. Not fun and it's making my Sim tense. Of course, I've only been there one day and one night. The bar was ok. Crowded with very friendly natives but could use a rebuild. I'll work on that at some point. Speaking of shells, if you find a conch and blow it you will get several shells right at your feet. That was a pleasant surprise. I don't know what else it does but I think it might call mermaids at some point or dolphins. The jet skis and outriggers are awesome, although my Sim has not ridden in one or obtained one. Still, awesome. The reef under the water is gorgeous and I can hardly wait to really explore it. If you walk on the beach you can click on it and "Beach comb" for either shells, or trash! So far has not found either but it was interesting. I think she would have one heck of a backache from all the bending over and brushing sand away. You also get the option to build a sandcastle which she has not done yet. My only minor, and I emphasize that it is minor, complaint is so far swimming in the ocean does not increase fun or hygiene and she is very low on fun at the moment. Had her first experience with cava. You know how the neighbors come to call and bring that awful fruitcake? Well these bring cava, so a good time was had by all. Why I was so excited and delighted over chickens I don't know, but I was. Just made my day, but then in RL I happen to like chickens, they're cute and they cluck at you in a most familiar and friendly way. The clothes and hair are really nice. A bit wild for my taste but perfectly suited to the inhabitants and very attractive. My sweet Leilani, (my Sims name), will look great in them. I normally don't like tatoos on most Sims but these tatoos are lovely and appropriate and very tribal looking. (Maori?) So far has not found a fishing spot and has not tried fishing from her deck or anything but has found a fishing trap. Interesting. Also, has not found any harvestables, but again, time was short for me. She made grilled cheese for her guests who were surprised at the meal, something I guess they were unfamiliar with, but loved it. So, on the whole, it was definitely worth the money spent and I look forward to really getting the time to explore it.
