Sorry gamers, that “too good to be true” release date of February 20th, 2009 seems to be slipping away, as EA informed European retailers they are “evaluating the launch window" of The Sims 3. As with every masterpiece, patience is the key, and we'll just have to wait a little longer for our favorite virtual life simulator.

From Eurogamer.net

“Last week several retailers in Eastern Europe relisted the game as "first half 2009". UK retailers - including online giants Amazon and Play - still carry the 20th February target, but EA issued the following statement:
"We are evaluating the launch window. The game looks great and in the near future we'll have more information."

So we wouldn't bank on being able to play it on 20th February.

Source