Animal Crossing has certain elements I like, but has too much stupid trading and loot whoring for its own good.
The Sims is a far better simulation game that allows better and more control over your characters and the town you live in. Making houses in the Sims is an art. Making a house in Animal Crossing is like getting a handjob. Very little customization and control compared to The Sims, which is really more of a sand box more than anything.
Depth aside, The Sims has more interesting storylines and shit. I like playing as psychotic aspie addled characters who are morally ambiguous, and possibly evil and seeing how they interact with the townspeople.
I'd like to see Animal Crossing do this.