After weeks of speculation and cheeky teasers, EA has officially re-released the beloved classics of The Sims 1 and The Sims 2, celebrating the iconic series' 25th anniversary. This exciting launch, which took place on February 1, 2025, offers both nostalgic fans and new players alike the chance to engage with gameplay they may not have experienced for decades. The Sims: Legacy Collection and The Sims 2: Legacy Collection are now available for purchase on several PC platforms, making it easier than ever to revisit the chaos and creativity of these life simulation games.
The re-release marks the first time The Sims 1 has been available digitally, as it had remained unavailable for years. Its sequel, The Sims 2, was last offered as part of the Ultimate Collection on Origin, which was taken down back in 2018. EA's decision to bring these titles back was fueled by fans' desire to relive the old-school charm and for new players to discover the origins of the life simulation genre.
Each Legacy Collection showcases the base game alongside all subsequent expansions. Priced at £17.99 for The Sims: Legacy Collection and £24.99 for The Sims 2: Legacy Collection, these bundles include numerous expansions like Livin' Large, Nightlife, and Seasons, bringing back memorable experiences. For those eager to experience both games together, the Sims 25th Birthday Bundle is available for £34.99, offering a slight discount.
Not only do these collections come with all their original content, but they also include select DLC packs for The Sims 4, enriching the offerings for long-time fans. The Sims: Legacy Collection features the Throwback Fit Kit, and The Sims 2: Legacy Collection includes the Grunge Revival Kit. It’s certainly the perfect way to entice players to try out the newest iteration as well.
Kate Gorman Revelli, vice president and general manager of The Sims, commented on the re-release, stating, "Bringing back our original Sims games where all the chaos first unfolded and the life simulation genre began is special for our team and a birthday treat for our players." This statement resonates deeply with many who have fond memories of guiding their Sims through life’s unpredictable challenges to create stories. It's this balance of nostalgia and new discovery which makes the re-release so exciting.
The move to bring back these classic titles seems strategically timed, with the release also creating buzz around the 25-hour livestream event celebrating the franchise, culminating on February 4, 2025. Included along with this livestream will be the much-anticipated free 25th anniversary update for The Sims 4, adding over 70 new items and hosting special events to honor the series.
Players will find quality-of-life improvements accompanying these ports—issues related to performance and stability appear to be prioritized. Reviewers have noted no crashes or lagging during gameplay, making for seamless play compared to past experiences with earlier versions. The games are also adapted to modern widescreen resolutions without sacrificing the original visuals, breathing new life and accessibility to this retro franchise.
It's interesting to see how gameplay elements have retained their charm. The Sims, notorious for its unpredictable-fired FAULT, recalls memories of humorous (and sometimes disastrous) moments, like Bella Goth and her kitchen exploits. With all expansions included, players can enjoy chaos involving pets, vacations, and magic. Meanwhile, The Sims 2 broadens the scope with elements of the supernatural. From aliens to zombies, both games provide countless hours of rich and entertaining gameplay.
The excitement around these re-releases is palpable. With all the classic content made available, fans are ecstatic to immerse themselves once again, all within the stabilizing framework of modern technology. The only downside? It seems there are no current plans for console releases; both games remain exclusive to PC for now, leaving some fans longing for future accessibility on popular gaming consoles.
With The Sims 1 and 2 having re-emerged on PC, and with the anticipation surrounding the continued evolution of its spin-offs, many are eager to see what the future holds for the franchise. Whether it be new expansions, reimaginings, or other surprise updates, the legacy lives on—25 years strong, and counting. This anniversary not only celebrates the history of The Sims but also sets the stage for the next chapter.