The Sims 4 was released eight years ago by EA. While it appears that the game has plenty of life left in it as it transitions to free-to-play, many fans have been concerned about the series’ future. Maxis, the publisher, and developer, announced the next entry in the franchise and provided a sneak peek into what’s to come during a showcase on Tuesday.
The next-generation Sims game is currently known as Project Rene. According to EA, Maxis chose that working title “to be reminiscent of words like renewal, renaissance, and rebirth to represent the developer’s renewed commitment for The Sims’ bright future.”
Maxis is in the early stages of developing Project Rene, which will not be ready for a few years. During the Behind the Sims Summit, however, it did provide some details, including a look at more in-depth customization. Objects’ patterns, colors, and shapes, as well as various elements of each item, will be customizable. For example, you could change the shape and size of a bed’s footboard or the layout and pattern of cushions on a couch. It appears that you’ll have more freedom in how you place objects without having to rely on The Sims’ long-used grid system.
You’ll be able to play Project Rene alone or with your friends (you’ll be able to share furniture sets, for example). Furthermore, it will be a cross-platform game with cross-progression, allowing you to continue playing even if you switch devices. That could also imply that Project Rene is being considered a free-to-play title.
According to EA, this is the first look at a Sims game. As a result, some of these planned features may change in the coming years, and there is much more to come. Maxis is looking for feedback from players as it develops Project Rene. As such, it’s following in the footsteps of sibling studio Full Circle, which has invited fans to try very early versions of the new Skate and provide feedback to help guide its work.
Aside from that, the stream provided some information on current game updates. Maxis is collaborating with Overwolf, the company behind mod repository CurseForge, to create a destination for The Sims 4 fans to find trusted mods and player-created content. More information will be released later this year.
Meanwhile, the next wave of expansion packs will be released in 2023. The presentation included a teaser about infants who may no longer be confined to cribs. One was seen crawling around before being picked up by an adult.
Starting Tuesday, players in The Sims FreePlay will be able to use any hairstyle, earrings, or glasses on Sims of any gender. Maxis is changing the faces of characters as part of an effort to make the franchise more inclusive. Early next year, The Sims FreePlay will also receive a superyacht in which your Sims can live. Balconies will be available in The Sims Mobile’s build-and-buy catalog sometime this holiday season.
