EA is sending The Sims back in time to the dark ages -- wait, is it time for DarkSims already? The publisher has just announced The Sims Medieval, a new series for the PC and Mac that lets you "build up a medieval kingdom, controlling characters from all walks of life, from Kings and Queens, to Knights and Wizards, Blacksmiths and Bards." This is accomplished through a new addition to the series: quest-driven gameplay.

As you complete quests in The Sims Medieval, you'll be able to shape the kingdom as you see fit, and either expand it internally or through conquest. And with every new game, you'll create a hero with a variety of traits and the obligatory "fatal flaw." (Ours always forgets to wash his hands, for example.)

The Sims Medieval is currently slated to launch in Spring 2011. Head into the gallery below for the first screens.