The Sims aims "to convert players into game designers", launches TheSimsCarnival.com

EA just sent word that a closed beta for TheSimsCarnival.com is now open, allowing those selected to be involved to create and share games in a custom-built community.

The initiative has been launched on the back of confirmation that Rod Humble, head of The Sims Studio, will speak at GDC later this week, on Thursday from 12pm-1pm PST in the Moscone Center’s South Hall Esplanade Ballroom.

"In his session titled 'The Emergent Gamer,' Mr Humble will discuss the rise of a new kind of game creator, and what this trend means to games as an art form," EA said this morning. "For the first time, he will share details on a new gaming experience from The Sims Label that makes game creation and sharing more accessible and fun than ever before. The introduction of this new creative endeavor from The Sims is designed to convert players into game designers."

Sign up for the closed beta, if you're feeling creative.