While video gamers are stereotypically portrayed as slackers and losers in the media, it is the growing contingent of middle class children who play video games that push titles into the realm of mass sales. These same children are the reason that “The Sims” has not only become the best-selling game of all time but also continues to be popular today.  The game has been particularly popular with girls. Girls as young as five may like playing with “The Sims” because it’s like playing “Barbie” but on the computer – you get to control the life of virtual people much like one would with a doll. Boys play “The Sims” too, but often the way boys play will differ from that of girls, mirroring real life differences. Adults and experts may spend time analyzing why this is so, but the kids just want to play.