In this paper some possibilities are explored for combining anticipatory rule based simulation with geographical information systems (GIS) as aids to the development, implementation, and evaluation of corporate and governmental decisions and policies. The developments as well as the needs of the respective disciplines and practices (e.g. anticipatory rule based simulation, GIS, regional policy) that could underwrite and/or hinder the development of Anticipatory Rule Based Spatial Simulation Systems (ARBS3) are reviewed. This review, apart from bringing forth a number of possibilities for advancement, also identifies some of the gaps that need to be filled. Some specific combinations are also proposed, along with the criteria that may be used to evaluate them. The paper closes with a discussion around ERASE, a cooperative research program whose pursuit could lead to the development of ARBS3.