The Sims franchise is stepping into a new era with Project Rene, often mistakenly referred to as The Sims 5. But hold your llamas—this isn’t a typical sequel. EA and Maxis are shaking things up with a bold new vision, introducing multiplayer elements, cross-platform gameplay, and a free-to-play model. So, what does this mean for die-hard Simmers and casual players alike? Let’s break it all down.
What Is The Sims 5 (Project Rene)?
First things first, Project Rene is NOT replacing The Sims 4. Instead, EA has clarified that The Sims will move beyond linear releases—meaning The Sims 4 will continue receiving updates while Project Rene evolves as a separate, standalone experience.
Lyndsay Pearson, VP of Franchise Creative for The Sims, explained the reasoning behind the name:
“We chose Project Rene because it’s reminiscent of words like renewal, renaissance, [and] rebirth, and it represents our renewed commitment to The Sims.”
Translation? This game is about expanding The Sims universe rather than just creating a prettier version of the same game.
The Sims 5 Release Date: When Can You Play Project Rene?
Bad news first: There’s no official release date yet.
EA has stated that Project Rene is still in early development and that it will take several years before the game is ready for full release.
However, EA is trying something new: open development. This means they’ll be sharing updates and playtest opportunities along the way. Some lucky players have already participated in small, invite-only playtests in late 2024, focusing on the Build/Buy mode.
Best Guess? The Sims 5 (Project Rene) is unlikely to launch before 2026, but EA might release an Early Access version in 2025.
Will The Sims 5 Be Free-to-Play?
Yes! Project Rene will be free-to-download, meaning there won’t be an upfront cost. But don’t celebrate just yet—EA has also confirmed that they will sell additional content through expansion packs and microtransactions.
What does this mean for you?
- Expect free updates to the base game.
- Some features (like weather or pets) may be available for free, unlike The Sims 4, where you had to pay for expansions.
- Paid content will likely include DLC packs, cosmetic items, and other add-ons.
EA insists that there will be no paywalls or energy mechanics (unlike mobile Sims games). Whether this model will feel fair or frustrating remains to be seen.
The Sims 5 Gameplay – What’s Changing?
Now for the juicy details! EA has teased several game-changing features, including multiplayer gameplay, enhanced customization, and cross-platform play.
1. Multiplayer (But Not an MMO)
For the first time, The Sims will feature social play, allowing players to design apartments together or collaborate on builds. However, EA has reassured fans that The Sims 5 will still be a single-player experience at its core.
“You can choose to play or create by yourself, or with your close friends – it’s entirely your choice.” – EA
So, if you prefer playing solo, don’t worry—you won’t be forced into multiplayer chaos.
2. Build/Buy Mode Overhaul
Builders, rejoice! Project Rene is revamping the Build/Buy experience with insane customization options: ✔️ Fully customizable furniture – Adjust shape, size, patterns, and colors.
- Moveable pillows – Yes, you can finally place throw pillows wherever you want without using cheats!
- Shared design spaces – Work on builds with friends in real-time.
EA showcased these features during the Behind the Sims Summit, giving us a glimpse of more detailed object interactions and customizations than ever before.
3. Improved Create-A-Sim
While EA has been quiet about Create-A-Sim (CAS), they have confirmed that they are:
- Adding more diverse hairstyles with flexible coloring.
- Expanding personality traits (hopefully better than Sims 4’s limited 3-trait system).
Simmers are also hoping for more body diversity, detailed aging mechanics, and in-depth genetics.
4. Open World or Closed Neighborhoods?
One of the biggest debates in the Sims community is whether The Sims 5 will return to an open world like The Sims 3, or stick with closed neighborhoods like The Sims 4.
EA hasn’t confirmed anything, but based on early screenshots, the game appears to be more open-ended than Sims 4. This means we might get semi-open worlds where Sims can roam without loading screens—fingers crossed!
5. More Natural Sims Behavior
EA has hinted that Sims will now be able to “read the room”—reacting more realistically to their surroundings and emotions.
For example:
- Sims will show emotions through posture and animations.
- Conversations will feel more organic and expressive.
- Sims will have better daily routines outside of their homes.
This could be a huge leap forward from The Sims 4’s sometimes robotic behavior.
Will The Sims 5 Be Cross-Platform?
YES! EA has confirmed that Project Rene will be playable on both PC and mobile.
- You’ll be able to seamlessly switch between devices without losing progress.
- However, the mobile version will likely have a simplified interface compared to the PC version.
While console support hasn’t been mentioned yet, it’s highly likely The Sims 5 will launch on PlayStation and Xbox as well.
FAQs About The Sims 5 (Project Rene)
Q: Will The Sims 5 replace The Sims 4?
Nope! EA has made it clear that Project Rene is not replacing The Sims 4. Both games will coexist, and The Sims 4 will still receive updates.
Q: When is The Sims 5 coming out?
There’s no official release date, but it’s at least a few years away. Expect early access in 2025 and full release around 2026 or later.
Q: Will The Sims 5 be free?
Yes! Project Rene will be free-to-play, but expect paid DLC and expansions.
Q: Will The Sims 5 be multiplayer?
Sort of! EA has confirmed collaborative multiplayer features, but it won’t be an MMO. You can still play solo if you prefer.
Q: What platforms will The Sims 5 be on?
Confirmed so far: PC and Mobile. Console support hasn’t been officially mentioned, but it’s likely.
Should You Be Excited for The Sims 5?
It’s still early days, but The Sims 5 (Project Rene) is shaping up to be the biggest shake-up the franchise has ever seen. While some fans are worried about the free-to-play model, the expanded customization, multiplayer elements, and cross-platform play could make this the best Sims game yet.
The real question is: Will Project Rene capture the magic of past Sims games, or will it feel like another cash grab? Only time will tell.
For now, stay tuned for more updates—and keep an eye out for early playtest invitations!
Agnes is a technical writer, being in touch with reports to come up with the latest tech leaks.
