The Sims 4 has had an incredibly long lifespan, and it is partially due to Maxis continually releasing new content that radically changes how the game feels. Nevertheless, the game is beginning to show its age, which is why it is great news that The Sims 5 is on the way. The upcoming game, which is being developed under the codename 'Project Rene,' has the chance to take the franchise to new heights. This could be done by ensuring that supernatural elements are available from the get-go.
Supernatural elements have always been a part of The Sims, and The Sims 4 has kept the tradition alive through its expansions. The Sims 5 could stand out by allowing players to delve into the supernatural from the beginning without the need to wait for DLC. This would ensure that from day one, players never have their imagination restricted, and they can create any kind of family and storyline they desire.
Magical Elements in The Sims
The Sims has seldom shied away from supernatural themes, with ghosts, the Easter bunny, and the Grim Reaper being recurring characters in the series. The Sims 4 had its fair share of magic as well, and much of it was introduced through DLC which has been released over the years. This includes game packs like The Sims 4: Vampires which introduces the vampire life state, and Werewolves which includes the werewolf life state.
The most notable supernatural game pack is Realm of Magic, which brings the spellcaster life state and a portal to a fantasy neighborhood called The Magic Realm which is inhabited by magical NPCs. These game packs did a lot to expand on the game's magical themes, though players were drip-fed the DLC over years, which can be frustrating. With The Sims 5, things could change, and magic could become a core element, instead of something which is unlocked via additional purchases.
The Sims 5 and Magic
Project Rene already has the gaming world buzzing, as it seems like it will be doing things bigger and better than its predecessor. The small glimpse gamers have received of Maxis' work in progress has shown that the build-and-buy mode will be more complex than ever, allowing players greater freedom. The build-and-buy mode will also be multiplayer, making it possible for friends to collaborate on projects.
Though it appears that DLC will always be part of The Sims, hiding too much content behind paywalls could be harmful to the franchise. Hence, Maxis should remember to include plenty of content for the base game instead of leaving it all for DLC. This should especially be done for the magical elements, as they are such an integral aspect of The Sims' identity that it seems counterintuitive to have some features locked behind paid game packs. In addition to being a good treat for longtime fans, it would also demonstrate just how much larger The Sims 5 is right out of the box compared to its predecessor.
Project Rene has yet to receive a release date, even though fans have been waiting for years. To attract more players to the franchise before The Sims 5's release, The Sims 4 base game has been made free. This gives newcomers the perfect opportunity to explore the wacky, sometimes stressful, but always amusing world of The Sims. With a little magic, developers can ensure the upcoming game reaches new heights for the series and stay true to its supernatural roots.
The Sims 4 is available now on PC, PS4, and Xbox One.
