Tech deals: Get the latest Sims game for free on Android

The Sims franchise is something of a phenomenon, with over 150 million copies worldwide since the original game's release in 2000. If you're one of the many Simlish faithful, prepare to rejoice: the series is coming to Android, free of charge.

The Sims Freeplay is a complete Sims game that can be downloaded and played without spending a single simoleon (that's Simlish for money, incidentally). Originally launching on iPad and iPhone last year, the title is now available on Android devices.

Developed by the same team responsible for The Sims 3, the new game comes with a host of familar features, including extensive Sim customisation, the ability to buy, build, furnish and remodel homes, career/life goal progression and a variety of pets to adopt. This time around, you can also choose to play the game in real-time, instead of having sped-up day-and-night cycles. 

Despite the zero dollar asking price, it doesn't feel like a cut-down product (you can control up to 16 Sims at once, for example) and doesn't have any intrusive in-game advertising - a big plus. The Android version comes with all the most recent updates to the game, including new Valentine’s Day items and additional careers.

You can download The Sims Freeplay by visiting the Android Market. You can also read our review of the iPad version (which is more or less identical) here.