Well – here we go. Rumblings of a new Sims game have been floating around for years. After a break of nine years, not including numerous expansion packs for the fourth game launched in 2014, it feels like time for a new addition to the series. Maxis, the creators of the series, seem to agree, as they’ve finally formally announced The Sims 5, also known as Project Rene. We’re closer than ever to the next step in life simulation.
In this post, we’ll share all the current details about The Sims 5. They’re using Project Rene name to suggest that the future of the series will be a complete reinvention. Quite a smart marketing move. Let’s dive into the evolution of the ultimate virtual life simulation.
Related: 5 New Indie Games of May 2023
What Is Project Rene?
Again, don’t be puzzled by the Project Rene name, it’s just a working title for the moment. The developers explain that they chose this name because it sounds like “Renaissance”, signalling a complete revamp for the future of the series. We could chalk this up to a clever marketing strategy for now.
So, what exactly is this project? You might not be familiar with Lyndsay Pearson. She’s the Vice President of The Sims, meaning she’s currently the top authority on the series. She’s one of the few people directing where The Sims 5 or Project Rene is heading. She outlined the new project during the The Sims Summit Stream Event:
“We chose Project Rene because it’s reminiscent of words like renewal, renaissance, [and] rebirth, and it represents our renewed commitment to The Sims. That’s what we’re doing, we’re ushering in a new future for The Sims, with a new game experience and more. This new future requires us to stay true to what The Sims has always been while pushing to evolve how those Sims think and behave, to push tools further when creating and customizing, and to explore innovative ways not only to tell stories but to collaborate on those stories and creations with your closest friends across your favorite devices.”
Related: 5 Best Cross-Platform Games to Play in 2023
The Sims 5 – Gameplay
There’s not much to share about The Sims 5’s gameplay at this point. Presently, the developers are conducting a playtest of the game’s customisation mechanics. This entails a select number of players testing out mechanics within specific parameters. A similar notion was mentioned in an interview that Sims Community had with Grant Rodiek, one of the game’s producers. The most notable mechanic is the ability for players to modify all objects as they see fit.
If you recall, you were selecting from pre-made designs in previous The Sims games. While some mods made this a more comprehensive mechanic, we’re told that Project Rene will take this even further. We won’t just be choosing the colour, size or orientation of a bed – we’ll even be selecting the design of its headboard or footboard.
What stands out most are the colour codes. We’ll now be able to set the colours of all items ourselves using codes. So, if you fancy a bright red coffee machine, it’s doable. All you need to do is input the code of the colour you desire (If the existing options aren’t to your liking).
Related: 10 Best New Games of May 2023
The Sims 5 – Multiplayer and Co-Op
The Sims 5 will feature multiplayer, yet rest easy – it’s not a mandatory mode. You can still savour the single player mode’s experience you know and love. Additionally, there will be a new scenario perpetuated in the background via non-playable characters (NPCs). You can fashion your character and delve into the best life simulation at your own pace.
Suppose you fancied inviting your best mate over to your digital house. That’s now achievable thanks to The Sims 5 Project Rene’s multiplayer support. So, it’s feasible to enjoy the game as a co-op venture from beginning to end. You could even become roommates in The Sims with your real-life flatmate.
Related: Best 7 Games of 2023 Thus Far
Is The Sims 5 Cross-Play or Cross-Platform?
Yes and it’s a big deal. You’ll be able to play The Sims 5 on your computer or mobile devices. What’s more, the transition between the two platforms will be entirely seamless, meaning the game also supports cross-progression. You can carry on perfecting the house you designed on your PC on your mobile device.
The most crucial element of the game’s cross-platform support is its impact on multiplayer mode. A friend using a mobile device can join the same game as you, visiting your home even if you’re playing on a PC. If they take a liking to your sofa set, they can replicate the design and use it in their own home. It seems Project Rene is set to be the most sociable The Sims game ever created.
Related: Is Stray Coming to the Nintendo Switch?
The Sims 5 Project Rene Release Date
Lastly, we come to the question you’re most intrigued by. We have both good and bad news on this front. The good news is that the developers want to engage players from the early stages of the game. Hence, we can expect an abundance of closed betas, trial versions or limited open betas in the foreseeable future.
The bad news is that The Sims 5 is still a few years away. The game is currently in its embryonic stages, so it’s as though the development process has only just kicked off. This suggests a release date in 2025 or later. In the interim, you can rejoice in The Sims 4 being free to play and ready yourself for the new game on your preferred platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Sims 5 Have Mods?
Since The Sims 5 is still under development, there’s no official statement about whether it will support mods. However, it appears improbable that the developers would choose not to provide this feature. The Sims franchise has consistently thrived with its community of players and they wouldn’t want to jeopardise that. Consider it akin to Skyrim, where mods have consistently been the vital components that have kept these games alive over the years. We’re fairly confident that The Sims 5 will offer mod support.
Is Sims 4 Permanently Free Now?
Yes – base game of The Sims 4 is now completely free. You can download and play the game without charge on your preferred platform. However, bear in mind that all the additional packs still require payment. So, when you want to expand your gaming content, you have the choice of over 20 add-on packs. In this respect, the bulk package on Steam seems the most sensible option.
Will Sims 5 Be on Mobile?
Yes – The Sims 5 is set to be released for all compatible mobile devices. Moreover, for the first time in the series, there will be cross-play and cross-platform support between PCs and mobile devices. This means you can enjoy the same game with your friends even if you’re using different platforms or devices. With the multiplayer support that the new game offers, it seems that the dreams of millions of Sims enthusiasts are about to come true.
Author Profile
- My journey into the world of video games began at four, when I was first introduced to arcade machines in 1996. Over the past decades, I've been fortunate enough to witness the incredible evolution of gaming, as it has grown from a niche hobby to a thriving art. Today, I'm dedicated to creating content that celebrates all genres of games. We will talk about them at Player.me.
