Neoseeker takes an extensive look at the graphic engine powering The Sims 3, with a focus on how to run the game best when limited to low-end video cards A quote from the article:

E.A was smart to make the Sims 3 accessible to a extremely wide range of hardware. It seems almost an understated part of the The Sims series' massive success: with such low hardware requirements, people who otherwise might not be PC gaming fans have the chance at playing one of the most inventive and fun titles of the year.

>> The Sims 3 Graphics Performance Guide