EA Abandons Sequel Model, Sims 5 in Doubt

Speculations of a Sims 5 sequel have been circulating for years, but it seems EA is taking a radical departure from the series’ numbered releases. Read on to learn more about EA’s plan on expanding ‘The Sims Universe.’

EA Plans on Expanding ‘The Sims Universe’

The Sims 4 Remains the Foundation of the Franchise

For decades, fans of The Sims have eagerly awaited the announcement of the next installment in the beloved life simulation franchise. However, Electronic Arts (EA) has introduced a groundbreaking strategy, moving away from the traditional numbered sequel model. Instead of launching a Sims 5, EA is focusing on creating an expansive platform that will include continuous updates for four games: The Sims 4, Project Rene, MySims, and The Sims FreePlay.

EA is shifting away from the linear, numbered release approach, recognizing the immense dedication players have invested in The Sims 4 over its ten-year journey. "Historically, ‘The Sims’ franchise has progressed from ‘Sims 1’ to ‘Sims 2,’ ‘3,’ and ‘4,’ with each new release replacing the previous one," explained EA’s Vice President Kate Gorman in a recent Variety interview. "In this new era of ‘The Sims,’ we're not focusing on replacing past projects; instead, we're expanding our universe with ongoing additions."

Gorman further elaborated that this new approach will allow for more frequent updates, diverse gameplay experiences, and a variety of new content. "The way we're moving forward is different and incredibly exciting," Gorman added. "It's the most expansive iteration of ‘The Sims’ yet."

Despite its decade-long run, The Sims 4 remains a cherished game, with players logging over 1.2 billion hours in 2024 alone. Many fans feared that a new sequel might render the current game obsolete, but EA has reassured the community that The Sims 4 will continue to receive updates, including bug fixes and quality-of-life enhancements. In May, EA even established a dedicated team to address the game's technical issues.

During an investor presentation, EA's entertainment and technology president, Laura Miele, emphasized The Sims 4's role as the foundation for the series' future. "We will be updating the core technology and releasing exciting new content for many years to come," Miele stated, according to PCGamer.

To further expand their current lineup, EA is introducing Sims Creator Kits, a new feature allowing players to purchase digital content created by the community. "Our community is the heart of ‘The Sims,’" Gorman said. "We're thrilled to enhance our support for creators with ‘The Sims 4 Creator Kits,’ enabling players to engage with the content they love."

While the Creator Kits program is still in its early stages, Gorman assured that EA is committed to ensuring fair compensation for creators. "We've worked closely with our initial creator partners to ensure they are compensated fairly, and we'll continue to refine this process as the program evolves," she added.

The Sims 4 Creator Kits will begin rolling out in November across all Sims channels, complementing the existing collections of Kits.

EA Teases Project Rene—It’s Not Sims 5, Sadly

While rumors of The Sims 5 continue to swirl, EA has teased its next major project: Project Rene. Despite not being the anticipated sequel, Project Rene promises an exciting new direction for 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, and interested players can sign up through The Sims Labs. Those selected will be among the first to experience the game's multiplayer aspect—a feature EA has not fully explored since the closure of The Sims Online in 2008, aside from The Sims FreePlay mobile game.

Project Rene was first teased in October 2022, with only one closed playtest focusing on furniture customization held before the upcoming one.

"We've learned a lot from ‘The Sims Online’ and see the potential for a highly social, real-time multiplayer environment within our games," Gorman told Variety. "We haven't yet delivered this experience with ‘The Sims 4’ or any of our other titles, so we're exploring what this could mean. Simulation remains at the core of what we do, and we want to ensure our players have the experience they desire, but in a world populated by real players and NPCs."

In anticipation of their 25th anniversary in January 2025, EA will share regular updates on the future of The Sims franchise during a special Behind The Sims presentation.

The Sims Movie Will Include Easter Eggs and Lore, According to EA

In related news, EA has officially confirmed a film adaptation of The Sims, produced in collaboration with Amazon MGM Studios. The movie aims to bring the beloved franchise to the big screen.

Gorman emphasized that the film will be "deeply rooted in ‘The Sims universe,’" aiming to provide an authentic experience through partnerships with top collaborators to create a cultural phenomenon akin to the Barbie movie. The film will leverage the nostalgia and affection fans have for the franchise, appealing to both long-time enthusiasts and new audiences.

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

When asked about the film's storyline, Gorman hinted at "a lot of lore" and easter eggs. "You'll see Freezer Bunnies, and maybe a pool without a ladder," she teased. "The idea is to celebrate the incredible play, creation, and fun that people have experienced over the last 25 years within ‘The Sims.’"