Virtual assistants then begin the game by customizing a character with a specific hairstyle and an outfit for the day (because, according to Windsor, what you wear "is very important thing when you work at a magazine." Then, players attempt to juggle duties throughout an eight-hour day — answering phones and e-mails, scheduling appointments (from meetings with L'Oreal to spray-tan sessions) and running errands. In addition to managing her to-do list, players must manage their boss' emotions — a "happiness meter" measures the boss' mood as the player works through the day. As the player completes each task, she earns points and extra ticks on the "happiness meter." If she's fast, the assistant could receive special treats of appreciation — a bouquet of flowers, a latte or a virtual trip to New York Fashion Week. If the player is too slow, the happiness meter sinks, and she could be fired before the end of the week.

The game is another example of Hearst Magazines' investment in its online offerings, where all the Web sites for its magazines are being revamped to include video, fresh daily content and interactive features. Incidentally, the game was under construction since before both Shoket and Windsor joined the company. Shoket took over for former editor Atoosa Rubenstein in January. Windsor, whom Shoket calls her "Beautiful Ugly Betty," took advantage of summer Fridays on Friday and was not available for comment. Guess Windsor's real-life gig might not be so hectic after all. — Stephanie D. Smith