For years, speculation about The Sims 5 has dominated fan discussions. However, EA is dramatically shifting its approach to the franchise, moving away from the traditional numbered sequel model. Discover EA's exciting vision for the future of The Sims Universe.
EA's Expanding The Sims Universe
The Sims 4: The Franchise's Enduring Foundation
The anticipation for a new numbered Sims installment has been immense. But EA's announcement of a new direction is surprising: instead of Sims 5, the future involves continuous updates across four games: The Sims 4, Project Rene, MySims, and The Sims FreePlay.
This departure from linear releases acknowledges the enduring popularity of The Sims 4, which has thrived for a decade. EA's Vice President, Kate Gorman, explained to Variety, "Historically, ‘The Sims’ franchise started with ‘Sims 1’ and then ‘Sims 2,’ ‘3’ and ‘4,’ seen as replacements. What we’re working on is a new era. We won’t be replacing previous projects; we’re adding to our universe."
This approach promises more frequent updates, diverse gameplay, cross-media content, and a wider range of offerings. Gorman added, "It’s a different way of doing things… the most expansive iteration of ‘The Sims’ yet."
Despite its age, The Sims 4 remains incredibly popular. In 2024 alone, EA reported over 1.2 billion hours of playtime (and the year isn't over yet!). Concerns that a new game would obsolete The Sims 4 have been addressed; EA assures players of continued updates, bug fixes, and quality-of-life improvements. A dedicated team was even formed in May to tackle technical issues.
EA's entertainment and technology president, Laura Miele, reinforced this commitment during an investor presentation, stating (per PCGamer) that The Sims 4 will be the foundation for future growth: "We will be updating the core technology foundation… and release fun and exciting content for many years to come."
Expanding the Sims experience involves Sims 4 Creator Kits, a new feature allowing players to purchase digital content created by the community. Gorman highlighted the community's importance: "Our players drive us… We know our players love creators… and we’re excited to expand support with ‘The Sims 4 Creator Kits.’"
While details on compensation are limited, Gorman confirmed fair compensation for creators: "We worked closely with initial partners… and will continue to evolve that process."
The Sims 4 Creator Kits will launch in November across all Sims platforms, alongside existing Kits.
Project Rene: Not Sims 5, But Intriguing
Amidst Sims 5 rumors, EA teased Project Rene—not a sequel, but a significant new project.
EA describes Project Rene as a platform for players to "meet, connect, and share while playing together." A limited playtest is planned this fall via The Sims Labs. Selected players will experience the multiplayer aspect, a feature largely absent since The Sims Online closed in 2008 (except in The Sims FreePlay).
Initially teased in October 2022, Project Rene has had one closed playtest (furniture customization) before the upcoming one.
Gorman noted lessons learned from The Sims Online: "There is an opportunity to play in a social, real-time, multiplayer environment… We haven’t delivered that experience… so we’re looking at what that means. Simulation is core, but in a world with real players and NPCs."
EA is also preparing for its 25th anniversary in January 2025 with a "Behind The Sims" presentation, offering regular updates on the franchise's future.
The Sims Movie: Lore and Easter Eggs Confirmed
The Sims movie, a collaboration with Amazon MGM Studios, is officially confirmed.
Gorman confirmed the film's connection to the Sims universe: "It’s very much rooted… We aim to deliver an authentic experience… a cultural impact like the Barbie movie."
Margot Robbie's LuckyChap is producing, with Kate Herron (known for Loki and The Last of Us) directing and co-writing. Gorman teased the film's story: "There will be a lot of lore and easter eggs. There will be Freezer Bunnies… a pool without a ladder is somewhere in there…" The film aims to celebrate the franchise's 25-year history.
