The Sims franchise is turning 25, and it's celebrating in style with a lineup of exciting events, freebies, and surprises for fans worldwide. From in-game festivities to the return of beloved classics, this milestone is a testament to the game's enduring charm and impact on gaming culture.
Events and Freebies Galore
To mark the occasion, The Sims is offering a treasure trove of in-game rewards and events. Fans can enjoy freebies, a star-studded livestream featuring prominent members of the Sims community, and the triumphant return of two timeless titles—The Sims 1 and The Sims 2.
Kevin Gibson, the Production Director of The Sims, expressed his gratitude during an interview with Xbox Wire. "Our incredible players have shown us that no one does life like The Sims," he said. "We wanted to celebrate this amazing journey we've shared over the past 25 years." Gibson emphasized the game's growth from its debut at E3 in 1999 to its current status as a cultural phenomenon. "Without the unwavering support of our players across two decades, none of this would have been possible," he added. "This celebration is our way of thanking every Simmer for being part of this incredible journey."
The Return of The Sims 1 and The Sims 2
One of the most anticipated announcements is the relaunch of the original The Sims and The Sims 2, complete with all their DLCs. These iconic games are now available for purchase on Steam or the EA Store, either as a special Birthday Bundle or individually. For longtime fans, this marks a long-awaited opportunity to revisit the roots of the series without needing to fiddle with outdated files or hardware. Modern builds ensure seamless compatibility with today's technology, making it easier than ever to relive these classic experiences.
In-Game Events for The Sims 4 and The Sims FreePlay
The Sims 4 is hosting the "Blast From The Past" event, introducing players to nostalgic items like neon inflatable chairs, three-layer cakes, and light-up dance floors. Over four weeks, new content will continue to roll out, allowing players to immerse themselves in the retro vibes of earlier titles.
Meanwhile, The Sims FreePlay is rolling out its Birthday Update with new Live Events titled "The One with the Coffee Shop" and "Reality Island." Players can also expect a new velour tracksuit, daily gifts for 25 days, and a Social Town update featuring a museum to celebrate the game's history.
A 25-Hour Livestream for 25 Years
The anniversary kicked off with a memorable 25-hour livestream held on February 4th. Featuring a star-studded lineup of celebrities, streamers, and fan-favorite creators, the event showcased the diverse ways people connect and create within the Sims universe. Guests included musicians like Doja Cat and Latto, drag queens Trixie Mattel and Katya, popular YouTubers Dan & Phil, and TikTok stars Angelo & Lexy. Virtual personalities like Ironmouse also joined in, highlighting the game's appeal across platforms.
For those who missed the live broadcast, the full recording is available on the official The Sims YouTube channel or Twitch page, ensuring everyone can join in the celebration.