We've given up on doing news pieces for The Sims expansion packs - the workload would require a whole sub-section of TVG's editorial staff - but this latest pack from EA is just to hilarious to pass on. It seems the games publisher and self-assembled furniture giant IKEA have joined forces on the latest The Sims 2 expansion pack.

Players will now be able to choose from a wide range of officially licensed IKEA furniture in The Sims 2 IKEA Home Stuff, which is set for release in Europe on June 27th. EA assures us that the furniture has been in high demand from The Sims fans, and the types of living spaces that gamers create are apparently perfect for IKEA's brand of budget price Swedish furnishing.

"Players of The Sims have asked for IKEA by name, and if you look at the living spaces they design, it reflects the style of IKEA," said Steve Seabolt, Vice President Global Brand Development for The Sims. "We are pleased to collaborate with IKEA and we know players of The Sims will be excited to add IKEA content for their Sims' homes."

Our only worry is regarding the happiness of our Sims, as being sheep herded through long IKEA queues, as well as the taxing self-assembly task when you get the flat packs home, will no doubt affect their quality of life.