Electronic Arts has confirmed more details around The Sims 5, which is in development under the working title Project Rene, including confirmation that it will be free to start. In a blog post, EA said the game will be “free to download,” though there will be stuff to buy as well, of course.
“This means that when Project Rene is ready and fully open to players, you will be able to join, play and explore it without a subscription, core game purchase, or energy mechanics,” EA said.
EA also confirmed that The Sims 5 will exist “side by side” with The Sims 4, which adopted a free model in 2022. Job listings at EA suggested The Sims 5 would be free, but this is now confirmed.