Electronic Arts (EA) confirms The Sims 5, known as Project Rene, but details about its release date and features remain undisclosed. The popular life simulation franchise, which started in 2000, is set for its next installment.
When Will It Release?
The Sims 5, announced during the Behind The Sims Summit in October 2022, lacks an official release date from Maxis. The game is labelled as the “next generation” of the series, hinting at a prolonged wait. Speculations point to a release between 2026 and 2029.
Early access periods are planned, offering glimpses of the evolving project to select player groups. Maxis assures updates on “Project Rene” progress, sharing in-progress work and behind-the-scenes content.
Why Is It Taking So Long?
The extended development cycle is attributed to Project Rene’s groundbreaking nature as the first free-to-play full-scale platform in The Sims franchise. Lyndsay Pearson, VP of Franchise Creative, emphasizes a subscription-free experience and gradual addition of content over time.
The game aims to offer a multi-platform experience, playable on both PC and mobile, providing a consistent yet diverse gaming experience.
Will It Have Multiplayer?
The Sims 5 focuses on multiplayer but diverges from being an MMO. Grant Rodiek, Sims 5 director, describes it as a “public, shared space” allowing solo play. Lyndsay Pearson compares it to Nintendo’s Animal Crossing, emphasizing collaborative play rather than an immersive world with strangers.
How Much Will It Cost to Download?
The Sims 5 adopts a free-to-download model, with revenue generated through downloadable content purchases. Pearson clarifies that content will be distributed differently than in previous titles, offering basic features for free while charging for additional packs and experiences.
Potential Gameplay Details
Gameplay in The Sims 5 remains consistent with the franchise’s hallmark home designing and life simulation. Notable changes include enhanced creative and sharing capabilities, allowing players to design custom items for their homes and share them with the Sims community.
Maxis envisions a “social play experience” where players collaboratively design spaces like apartments. This represents a departure from the traditional expansion model.
When Could The Sims 5 Trailer Release?
No official Sims 5 trailer has been released, considering the game’s early development stage. Past marketing cycles suggest a trailer might not surface until 2025 at the earliest, with the game actively in development and no release window available.