EA has announced that The Sims 4 base game will be available to download and free-to-play starting October 18th, 2022.
The Sims 4 will be available for free on all of the following platforms – On PC via the EA app or Origin, Mac via Origin, Steam, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, and Xbox One systems.
In the official announcement, EA clarified that players would need to make a purchase and meet other terms and conditions to access additional content. The company states that its goal in making The Sims 4 base game available as free-to-play is to bring more players into The Sims 4 ecosystem to develop new narratives and create new experiences.
The move could also be seen as EA’s first step in pivoting The Sims towards becoming a metaverse.
EA also announced a “Desert Luxe Kit” for players who have already purchased the game before the announcement as an appreciation for their support. The Desert Luxe Kit allows Sims to relax in a luxurious and modern oasis inspired by the natural landscape of the Southwestern desert. Players can claim the gift by logging into the game before the October 17th deadline.
The Sims fans can find out what EA has in store for the game by attending the “Behind The Sims Summit” on October 18th, during which EA will discuss the development and release of new packs, kits, and Sims Delivery Express drops for The Sims 4. The event will be hosted virtually on the official The Sims YouTube, and Twitch Channels at 10 am PDT.
About The Sims 4
The Sims 4 is a life simulation game that allows players to create characters and guide them through life in a digital world by sending the Sims to high school or university, hanging out with friends, finding jobs, and more.
It was first released in September of 2014 and has since had over 50 paid DLC releases and free updates, which have helped the franchise maintain its popularity.