The Sims fans have big request for Sims 5, but it may not happen
It's been a long time coming, but as Maxis gets ready to launch the next generation of The Sims, we're excited to see where the lifestyle simulation series goes next. Like Rockstar Games releasing Grand Theft Auto 6, it's been so long between games that we're expecting some serious upgrades.
There's still plenty of gas left in the tank of The Sims 4, and despite debuting all the way back in 2014, the developer continues to release Expansion and Game Packs. Still, all eyes are on the mysterious Project Rene, and no one's quite sure whether it should be considered The Sims 5.
The Sims players don't want a realistic future
Whatever comes next, players on Reddit have a simple suggestion for the next iteration of The Sims, imploring the series to keep its cartoonish charm. While The Sims' graphics have evolved from the sharp edges of 2000's original game, it still has its own signature style, and The Sims 4 honours the OG.
When redditor u/Hopeful-Cartoonist43 mused about the future of the franchise, they said they hope The Sims 5 doesn't follow in the footsteps of Life by You. Led by former Executive Vice President of EA Play and Head of The Sims Label, Rod Humble, Life by You is very much a competitor to Maxis' long-running simulator.
Calling out Life by You's uncanny valley graphics, the OP said they're worried that The Sims will try to match the competition in terms of aesthetics. This would arguably rob The Sims of its signature style, and it seems they aren't alone in their concerns. Still, someone joked, "I wouldn't mind hair that doesn't look like a plastic wig."
As one supporter pointed out, "Cartoony graphics are more timeless and that's why they look better. Realistic graphics are only realistic until the next gen comes up with better graphic effects." Another added, "There’s more details missed and mourned in the sims 4, and I feel if they focus on making the games realistic then they’ll miss the details that people would rather have."
Others think we need a change, with someone concluding, "I personally hate TS4's cartoon clay style. I think TS2 had the best graphics, followed by TS1. That being said, I'd also f*****g hate it if they did hyperrealistic/Alpha CC style 🙄"
What do we know about Project Rene?
Click to enlargeWhile we can't yet call Project Rene 'The Sims 5', the next chapter of the Simsverse has everyone talking. Recent leaks showed off a massive map, with the idea that we'll be renovating apartments rather than individual houses. There's also been word of the ability to drive around neighbourhoods.
Aside from Project Rene's look, there are concerns about the addition of microtransactions. We've heard that the game will be free-to-play, and with EA's history of aggressive microtransactions, it screams of charging us for every little thing. Still, at least we might be getting multiplayer.
As Project Rene's playtests continue, we're slowly being drip-fed snippets about what's to come. It's clear there's not much love for the look of The Sims 4, but as it'll be jarring if we boot up the next game and feel like we've stepped into Cyberpunk 2077, Maxis has to find a balance somewhere.
