Sims 5 May Never Come as EA Hopes to Break from Sequel Model

For years, fans have anticipated The Sims 5. However, EA is dramatically shifting its strategy, moving beyond numbered sequels to expand "The Sims Universe." This article explores EA's ambitious plan.

EA's Expanding Sims Universe

The Sims 4: The Franchise's Foundation

The long-awaited numbered sequel may never arrive. EA's new approach focuses on continuous updates for The Sims 4, Project Rene, MySims, and The Sims FreePlay. This marks a departure from the previous model of replacing each game with a numbered successor.

EA VP Kate Gorman explained to Variety: "Historically, ‘The Sims’ franchise started with ‘Sims 1’ and then ‘Sims 2,’ ‘3’ and ‘4,’ seen as replacements. We’re working on a new era; we won’t replace previous projects, only expand the universe."

This strategy allows for more frequent updates, diverse gameplay, cross-media content, and a wider range of offerings. Gorman described it as "the most expansive iteration of ‘The Sims’ yet."

Despite its age, The Sims 4 remains incredibly popular. In 2024 alone, players logged over 1.2 billion hours of playtime. EA assures fans that the game will continue receiving updates, bug fixes, and quality-of-life improvements—a dedicated team was formed in May to address technical issues.

EA's entertainment and technology president, Laura Miele, confirmed The Sims 4's role as the franchise's foundation for future growth, stating (per PCGamer) that they will "update the core technology… and release fun and exciting content for many years to come."

EA plans to expand the game via "Sims Creator Kits," allowing players to purchase community-created digital content. Gorman highlighted the community's importance, stating that EA is committed to fairly compensating creators. While specifics remain undisclosed, EA is working closely with creators to establish fair compensation models. These kits launch in November across all Sims platforms.

Project Rene: Not Sims 5, But Close

While The Sims 5 rumors persist, EA revealed Project Rene. This isn't a direct sequel, but a significant new project. EA describes it as a platform for players to "meet, connect, and share while playing together." A limited playtest is planned for this fall via The Sims Labs, offering early access to its multiplayer features—a significant addition since The Sims Online's closure.

Gorman stated that Project Rene learns from The Sims Online, aiming for a social, real-time multiplayer experience while retaining the core simulation elements.

EA will celebrate its 25th anniversary in January 2025 with a "Behind The Sims" presentation, providing further updates on the franchise's future.

The Sims Movie: Lore and Easter Eggs Confirmed

EA confirmed a Sims movie, a collaboration with Amazon MGM Studios. Gorman confirmed the film will be "very much rooted in ‘The Sims universe’," aiming for a cultural impact similar to the Barbie movie. Margot Robbie's LuckyChap is producing, with Kate Herron (known for Loki) directing. The film will include lore and easter eggs, including Freezer Bunnies and potentially a pool without a ladder.