EA's Sims Concept Leaks, Sparks Fan Backlash

A leaked video supposedly from the next Sims installment has surfaced online, sparking concerns among fans about the franchise's future direction.

Project Rene - alternately referred to as The Sims 5 despite EA's clarification that it's actually a spin-off title - has been in development for several years. Recently leaked early access footage titled "City Life Game With Friends" has many speculating this might represent the franchise's next main entry.

The 20-minute video depicts gameplay where players select character customization options through text prompts before appearing in a sunny Plaza de Poupon setting. The gameplay shows social interactions at food vendors followed by café work activities.

The test build maintains classic Sims elements - characters speaking Simlish while sporting the signature Plumbob icon overhead.

"I'm extremely disappointed with Project Rene. Yes, EA claims 'this isn't final,' but seriously?" commented one frustrated player in a highly upvoted Sims subreddit post titled "I think Project Rene is a redflag (I hope not)".

"EA appears determined to abandon traditional Sims gameplay for mobile-style mechanics. Their idea of a reboot seems to be this - at least that's my interpretation."

"This clearly won't appeal to me," remarked another. "The gameplay looks oversimplified - I don't want a phone version of The Sims."

"Ironically, cross-platform Sims compatibility between PC and mobile isn't inherently bad," observed a fan. "EA's mobile design philosophy somehow equates to visual inferiority. They're implementing outdated design trends, making this appear obsolete before launch."

"The original Sims brilliantly critiqued capitalist consumer culture... Now the series embodies that very excess," noted another commentator.

First teased during 2022's Behind the Sims Summit, Project Rene initially fueled Sims 5 speculation until EA clarified its standalone nature. Designed as free-to-play with multiplayer elements inspired by Animal Crossing and Among Us, the project remains officially unannounced regarding release timing but has conducted exclusive private playtests since reveal.

The title "Rene" evokes concepts of "renewal and renaissance," symbolizing EA's proclaimed commitment to the franchise's evolution.

Following October's closed test leaks, criticism focused on artistic direction, limited gameplay features, and monetization structures - particularly café mechanics resembling 2018's The Sims Mobile. EA subsequently redefined Project Rene as a distinct "social simulation" title within the franchise.

Meanwhile, longtime fans welcomed the Burglar's surprise return in The Sims 4's latest update - a nostalgic nod to earlier series entries.