Can anyone give me an idea how well Sims 3 will run?

[schm0]

First, let me say I have read the FAQs, system requirements and tips on the wiki. I am confident that the Sims 3 and it's expansion packs will run on my (older) computer. The problem is, how well will it perform? Can anyone give me an idea?

Here's the specs:

Windows XP SP3
Intel 3.0GHz single-core
2 GB RAM
Radeon HD 4850
Hewlett Packard

I would prefer to run on 1280x1024, but I'd be willing to lower resolution to improve performance if need be.

It's definitely on the older end (SINGLE CORE!?), but it currently runs the Sims 2 like a charm on the highest graphics settings. What do you guys think? 25 FPS? Choppy? Smooth? What about on community lots?

I hope I'm not being an annoying n00b, so please pardon me if that is the case.

Thanks in advance!

[HystearicalParoxysm]

Not great. Playable on low settings with small houses with few sims, probably, but it's not going to be spectacular. Even on a very strong system, the game never runs perfectly, and that's... far from very strong.

[schm0]

Thanks, HP... Good to know this before making a purchase! Looks like I'll be saving for that gaming computer after all. :)