Electronic Arts plans to "disrupt the sequel model" by abandoning the traditional sequential release format for The Sims

Electronic Arts (EA) has revealed a strategic plan to expand The Sims series, ruling out the development of a fifth core title and instead concentrating on enhancing The Sims 4 alongside other initiatives.

Details emerged in a comprehensive blog post and during the latest Investor Day event. Laura Miele, EA's president of entertainment and technology, stated: "Traditionally, after every release we would replace one version with another, starting from scratch. Well, we are going to disrupt the sequel model. We are investing in a massive Sims platform."

The previously hinted-at Project Rene will proceed with a closed multiplayer test later this year, despite speculation it was intended as the next Sims installment.

EA clarified that both Project Rene and The Sims 4 will constitute part of a broader "Sims universe." The exact nature of their differences remains uncertain since Project Rene isn't positioned as a straightforward sequel.

Miele emphasized that The Sims 4 serves as the "foundation for future growth," with ongoing updates and content to boost user engagement.

Additionally, EA plans to update the core technology of the series, promising exciting new content for years ahead.

EA also announced two additional projects: My Sims and a mobile game temporarily named Project Stories. These initiatives will integrate within a shared Sims platform, offering features like a marketplace, creation, and social tools.

Moreover, the company reconfirmed the upcoming Sims film adaptation. It continues in collaboration with Amazon MGM Studios, under the production oversight of Margot Robbie's company and director Kate Herron.