EA Shifts Focus: Sims 5 Unlikely as Sequel Model Ends

Speculations about a Sims 5 sequel have been swirling for years, but it appears Electronic Arts (EA) is charting a new course for the beloved life simulation franchise. Dive in to discover how EA plans to expand 'The Sims Universe.'

EA's Vision for Expanding 'The Sims Universe'

The Sims 4: The Bedrock of the Franchise

For decades, fans of The Sims have been eagerly anticipating the next numbered installment. However, EA has introduced a groundbreaking shift, moving away from the traditional sequel model. Instead of a straightforward Sims 5, EA envisions a broader platform that includes continuous updates across four titles: The Sims 4, Project Rene, MySims, and The Sims FreePlay.

This marks a departure from the linear, numbered releases of the past. EA acknowledges the immense dedication players have shown to The Sims 4 over its decade-long journey. "Historically, ‘The Sims’ franchise progressed from ‘Sims 1’ to ‘Sims 2,’ ‘3,’ and ‘4,’ each seen as a replacement for the previous," explained EA's Vice President Kate Gorman in a recent interview with Variety. "Now, we're embracing a new era of ‘The Sims,’ where we'll add to our universe rather than replace previous projects."

Gorman highlighted that this approach will facilitate more frequent updates, varied gameplay experiences, cross-media content, and a host of new offerings. "Our new strategy is a departure from the past, and it's incredibly exciting—the most expansive version of ‘The Sims’ yet," she added.

Despite its decade-old launch, The Sims 4 remains a fan favorite, with players logging over 1.2 billion hours in 2024 alone. Many feared that a new sequel might overshadow the current game, but EA has promised ongoing updates, including bug fixes and quality-of-life enhancements. In May, EA formed a dedicated team to tackle these technical issues.

Laura Miele, EA's president of entertainment and technology, reinforced this commitment during an investor presentation, as reported by PCGamer. "The Sims 4 will continue to serve as the foundation for the series’ growth," Miele stated. "We will update the core technology and release exciting new content for years to come."

One of EA's strategies for expanding the current Sims lineup is through the introduction of Sims Creator Kits. These kits will allow players to purchase digital content crafted by the game's community.

"Our community is the heart of ‘The Sims,’" Gorman remarked. "They inspire us to evolve and innovate. We're thrilled to support our creators with ‘The Sims 4 Creator Kits,’ celebrating their contributions."

Although the Creator Kits program is still in its early stages, Gorman assured that EA is committed to fair compensation for creators. "We've worked closely with our initial partners to ensure they are compensated for their efforts, and we'll continue refining this process," she stated.

The Sims 4 Creator Kits are set to launch in November across all Sims channels, complementing the existing collections of Kits.

Project Rene: A New Frontier, Not Sims 5

Amidst rumors of The Sims 5, EA has teased Project Rene, which, while not the anticipated sequel, promises to be an exciting addition to the franchise.

EA describes Project Rene as a platform where players can "meet, connect, and share while playing together in an all-new world." A small, invite-only playtest is scheduled for this fall, with sign-ups available through The Sims Labs. Selected participants will experience the game's multiplayer features, a return to social, real-time gameplay not seen since The Sims Online closed in 2008 and revisited in The Sims FreePlay.

Project Rene, teased in October 2022, had its first closed playtest focused on furniture customization.

"We've learned a lot from ‘The Sims Online’ and see an opportunity to create a vibrant, real-time multiplayer environment within our gamespace," Gorman told Variety. "While ‘The Sims 4’ hasn't delivered this yet, we're exploring how to integrate it while maintaining the core simulation experience that our players love."

EA is also gearing up for its 25th anniversary celebration in January 2025, with a special Behind The Sims presentation to share updates on the franchise's future.

The Sims Movie: A Cinematic Journey with Easter Eggs and Lore

In other exciting news, EA has confirmed a film adaptation of The Sims in collaboration with Amazon MGM Studios. The movie aims to bring the beloved franchise to the big screen, rooted deeply in 'The Sims universe.'

Gorman emphasized the film's authenticity, aiming to partner with the right collaborators to create a cultural phenomenon akin to the Barbie movie. "The film will be filled with lore and easter eggs," she said. "Expect to see Freezer Bunnies and perhaps even a pool without a ladder. It's a tribute to the joy and creativity players have experienced over the last 25 years."

Margot Robbie's LuckyChap production company is behind the film, with Kate Herron, known for her work on Loki, directing and co-writing the screenplay with Briony Redman. Herron is also set to direct the second season of The Last of Us TV show.