It seems that every generation of consoles will have a new Sims game, and the Sims 3 will appear in the era of Xbox360 and PlayStation3. 

Sequels to simulation games can be strange, with limited space to expand ideas and usually focus on perfecting existing formulas. 

Although technically the game is like this, it expands customized tools, interaction with other Sims (and people), and life goals and aspirations, making it feel like a leap, not just a step.