Sims 4 Could Be End of Franchise

After the major disappointment that was SimCity, few could fault gamers for being wary of Electronic Arts' PC-focused simulation experiences going forward. On top of that, most assumed that EA was skating on thin ice for their failings with other games like Battlefield 4, and any additional miscues could hurt other franchise's potential.

Further echoing that point is a quote from Maxis Producer Grant Rodiek that calls into question the future of The Sims franchise. Specially, Rodiek reveals that if the recently released Sims 4 isn't a success then that will likely be the end for the franchise.

Rodiek's comments surfaced in a forum thread focused on future franchise improvements. In the thread, Sims fans were discussing which features they would like to see added either in a future expansion for The Sims 4 or in a future game.

However, Rodiek was quick to put any speculation about the franchise's future to rest, saying that if The Sims 4 isn't successful then there won't be a Sims 5. Rodieck has since deleted his post (make of that what you will), but it was telling nonetheless. Here's his full quote from the forums below:

"We're not working on Sims 5. We're not thinking about Sims 5. If Sims 4 isn't successful, there won't be a Sims 5. It's not all or nothing, per se, but something has to pay for 5."

Obviously, it makes sense to think that if The Sims 4 doesn't hit with fans that there won't be a follow-up, but Rodieck's comments put things in greater perspective. There is clearly a lot riding on Maxis after mucking up the SimCity launch, and if they can't bounce back their work on any Sim-related franchise is likely over.

However, given that The Sims is something of a huge moneymaker for Electronic Arts, we wouldn't be surprised if The Sims 4 does just fine in terms of sales. And even if the game does fall short of expectations, beyond just not including pools or toddlers, we doubt that EA would simply call it quits on the franchise. They might instead take Maxis off development duties and pass the franchise off to a new team. Or give The Sims some time to breathe, before bringing it back much like they did with SimCity.

Do you think The Sims 4 will be successful? Do you hope there will be a Sims 5?

The Sims 4 is out now for PC.

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Source: The Sims Forums