Originally, Project Rene was thought to be the codename for The Sims 5. However, EA has clarified that Project Rene is not a direct sequel and will exist alongside The Sims 4. This leaves the future of the franchise in an intriguing, yet somewhat unclear, position. This article compiles all the confirmed details about Project Rene, providing a clearer picture of what to expect.
Characters in the Sims 4.
Projected Release Date
Currently, Project Rene has no official release date or window. Development started in 2022, and playtests have been conducted, with another one scheduled for fall 2024. While this suggests the game is in a demonstrable state, a full release could still be a year or more away. EA promises to release more details as development progresses, and we will keep you updated.
Platforms
A child Sim is riding a bike, while other Sims cheer them on.
As confirmed by EA, Project Rene will launch on PC and mobile, featuring cross-saves between the two platforms. While console releases haven’t been confirmed, they are certainly a possibility. Whether these would include cross-save functionality remains to be seen.
Gameplay Features
A baby Sim and an elder Sim sit together on the floor, while the Sims behind them are asleep in various positions.
The Behind the Sims Summit provided the first glimpses of Project Rene gameplay, showcasing early footage of furniture customization and decoration. Key features include a significantly enhanced version of the Create-A-Style tool from The Sims 3, enabling players to upload custom designs to a shared gallery for use and further customization.
Multiplayer is another major focus, although its exact implementation remains unclear. Players can collaborate on creations with friends, but solo play will also be an option. The emphasis on player connection and content sharing suggests a potentially shared world or a robust social space.
Rumors and Leaks
It’s important to remember that the following information is based on rumors and leaks and should be treated as speculation until officially confirmed by EA.
A significant leak from a Reddit post claimed to showcase the entire Project Rene map, datamined from a leaked playtest build. The leak suggests an open-world map based on Paris, comparing it to real-world locations.
Another rumor, less positive for some players, hints at the inclusion of the controversial Denuvo anti-cheat software.
Finally, there’s speculation about improved object placement physics, allowing for more natural interactions with the environment. This could potentially lead to objects tipping over if placed on uneven surfaces or overloaded on one side.
Preorder Information
As EA has stated, Project Rene is still years away. We anticipate more information and potential beta opportunities before preorders open. The possibility of a free-to-play model also exists. We will provide updates on preorder details and pricing as they become available.
