I am having this issue, as well. I am using Ubuntu 9.10 Karmic. My graphics card is Intel and all my drivers are current. i know it is not my system, because I can run Sims 3 with no issue whatsoever.

Here is what is happening:

I can log in just fine. When I get to the next screen, there is no text in the box to create a character and the pointer is not visible. With some work, however, I can click on through to the next screen. There is nothing in the center- it is just a frame around black where the character should be. I can see my pointer, though. I can select gender and enter a name, but as soon as I select a race, it freezes.

I have tried to uninstall and reinstall, as well as numerous updating. nothing seems to be working. Any suggestions? Help would be much appreciated.