Electronic Arts said that since it debuted in 2000, "The Sims" games have gone on to become the best-selling PC game franchise of all time.

The company said it is sold in 22 languages and 60 countries around the world.

"At this milestone, we want to thank players of 'The Sims' everywhere for making 'The Sims' such a worldwide phenomenon," Rod Humble, studio head for games label, said in a statement posted on the company's Web site. "'The Sims' has been an interactive experience for people around the globe to explore their passion for creativity and we're thrilled to be a part of that."

Label President Nancy Smith said the line of games "truly unique in the world of interactive entertainment because it attracts creative people around the world of all ages and both genders."