EA Plans to Move Away from Sequels, 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 anticipated the next numbered installment in this iconic life simulation franchise. However, Electronic Arts (EA) has introduced a groundbreaking shift, moving away from traditional numbered sequels. Instead of a conventional Sims 5, EA envisions a dynamic platform that will continuously evolve, encompassing four games: The Sims 4, Project Rene, MySims, and The Sims FreePlay.

This new approach marks the end of linear, numbered releases. EA recognizes the immense dedication players have shown to The Sims 4 over its ten-year journey. "Historically, ‘The Sims’ franchise progressed from ‘Sims 1’ to ‘Sims 2,’ ‘3,’ and ‘4,’ each seen as a replacement for its predecessor," EA’s Vice President Kate Gorman explained in a recent Variety interview. "In this new era of ‘The Sims,’ we're not replacing previous projects; we're enhancing our universe."

Gorman elaborated that this strategy will facilitate more frequent updates, a variety of gameplay experiences, cross-media content, and an array of new offerings. "Our approach going forward is different and incredibly exciting," Gorman added. "It’s the most expansive iteration of ‘The Sims’ to date."

Despite its decade-long presence, The Sims 4, along with its expansive collection of expansions, remains a cherished part of the franchise. EA reported that in 2024 alone, players have logged over 1.2 billion hours in the game, a testament to its enduring popularity. Concerns about a potential sequel overshadowing the current game have been addressed by EA, who confirmed that The Sims 4 will continue to receive ongoing updates, including bug fixes and quality-of-life enhancements. In May, EA even formed a dedicated team to tackle the game’s technical issues.

Echoing this commitment, Laura Miele, President of EA's Entertainment and Technology, emphasized during an investor presentation, as reported by PCGamer, that The Sims 4 will serve as the bedrock for future developments. "We will update the core technology and release engaging, exciting content for many years to come," Miele affirmed.

One of the key ways EA plans to expand the current lineup of Sims games is through the introduction of Sims Creator Kits. This innovative feature will enable players to purchase digital content crafted by the game’s vibrant community.

"Our community is the heartbeat of ‘The Sims,’" Gorman stated. "They inspire us to evolve and innovate our content and engagement methods. We're thrilled to enhance our support for creators with ‘The Sims 4 Creator Kits.’"

While still in the early stages, Gorman emphasized EA's commitment to ensuring fair compensation for creators. "We’ve collaborated closely with our initial creator partners to ensure they are compensated for their efforts, and we will continue to refine this process as the program grows," she added.

According to the official website, The Sims 4 Creator Kits will begin rolling out in November across all Sims channels, complementing existing Kit collections.

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

Amidst rumors of The Sims 5, EA has teased its next major project: Project Rene. While it's not the sequel fans might have hoped for, it promises an exciting new direction.

EA describes Project Rene as a platform where players can "meet, connect, and share while playing together in an all-new world." To offer a sneak peek, EA has scheduled a small, invite-only playtest for this fall. Interested players can sign up through The Sims Labs for a chance to participate and experience the game’s multiplayer feature—a concept EA has explored since the closure of The Sims Online in 2008 and revisited in The Sims FreePlay.

First teased in October 2022, Project Rene has only held one closed playtest focused on furniture customization prior to the upcoming one.

"We’ve learned a lot from ‘The Sims Online,’" Gorman shared with Variety. "There’s a clear opportunity to create a social, real-time multiplayer environment within our gamespace. We haven’t yet delivered this with ‘The Sims 4’ or any other titles, so we’re exploring what this could entail. Simulation remains at our core, ensuring players have the experience they desire in a world with both real players and NPCs."

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

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

In other exciting news, EA has officially confirmed a film adaptation of The Sims, in collaboration with Amazon MGM Studios, aiming to bring the beloved franchise to the big screen.

Gorman stressed that the film is "deeply rooted in ‘The Sims universe.’" EA’s goal is to create an authentic Sims experience that resonates with fans and newcomers alike, drawing inspiration from successful adaptations like the Barbie movie.

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

When asked about the film's narrative, Gorman hinted at "a lot of lore" and easter eggs. "You can expect Freezer Bunnies and perhaps a pool without a ladder," Gorman teased. "While we’re still finalizing details, the film will celebrate the 25 years of creativity, play, and fun within ‘The Sims’ universe."