Some players let their characters get steamy.(Chicago Tribune)

The psychology of The Sims can get pretty, uh, unusual.

Though some players use Sims to let off steam, others find the best way to let off steam is to watch their Sims characters get steamy.

Some Sims fans have "X-rated love bed" downloads _ totally unsanctioned by Maxis _ that get rid of the blur and the blankets when Sims characters get together.

And if size matters to either gender, well, there are programs to alter the Sim bodies to any measurements you want.

"The sexual part is a great way to forget about real life for a while," said Doug Davis, 43, of Shreveport, La., who uses the game to relax after logging more than 1,000 miles on …