Electronic Arts (EA) and Maxis have officially announced the re-release of two landmark titles from their iconic life simulation franchise, The Sims and The Sims 2, as part of the 25th anniversary celebration. Dubbed the 'Legacy Collections,' these compilations are available separately or as part of the '25th Birthday Bundle,' which combines both titles for nostalgic fans and newcomers alike. Released on February 1, 2025, both collections include nearly all expansions previously released, providing both seasoned players and new adopters with extensive gameplay options.
The The Sims: Legacy Collection invites players back to the early 2000s, embodying the Y2K era. From creating Sims with unique personalities and appearances to constructing their dream homes, the possibilities are nearly limitless. Players can shape their Sims' lives for the goods or whimsically lead them to chaos, staying true to the game's open-ended nature. It includes classic expansion packs like 'Livin' Large,' 'House Party,' and 'Hot Date,' enhancing the original experience with new features.
Meanwhile, the The Sims 2: Legacy Collection takes the generational aspect of life simulation to the next level. Players guide their Sims through lifetime ambitions, deciding which traits get passed down through generations. This installment also boasts beloved expansions such as 'University,' 'Nightlife,' and 'Pets,' allowing for the crafting of rich family stories across time. The game builds upon the original with new aspirations, offering players the chance to either improve their Sims’ lives or let disorder and mischief reign.
Kate Gorman Revelli, Vice President and General Manager of The Sims, remarked, 'Bringing back our original 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. Our players have been wishing to relive all the nostalgia. And we knew our birthday would be the perfect moment to celebrate with them and introduce The Sims to new players. We look forward to another exciting 25 years as we continue empowering our community to reimagine all the different ways they play with life.'
Each of the Legacy Collections is available on Steam, priced at $19.99 for The Sims and $29.99 for The Sims 2. Meanwhile, the Birthday Bundle—featuring both Legacy Collections—is offered at $39.99, providing players with notable savings if they choose to purchase them together. The bundle also includes The Sims 4 Throwback Fit Kit and The Sims 4 Grunge Revival Kit, showcasing the franchise's commitment to blending old and new.
The re-releases coincide with EA's long-standing relationship with fans of the franchise, evidenced by the availability of games across diversified platforms since the original launch of The Sims on PC back in 2000. This life simulation series has sold nearly 200 million copies globally, securing its place as one of the best-selling video game series of all time.
Fans are thrilled by this initiative to bring classic gameplay to modern systems, with many expressing excitement on social media platforms about returning to Sim city living and the colorful eccentricities of the franchise. For those who grew up playing The Sims and The Sims 2, the newest release serves as both fond nostalgia and fresh engagement with gameplay. Players can carefully manage their Sims’ ambitions, friendships, romantic pursuits, and even try their hands at sabotaging their creations if they so choose—a signature feature of the series.
With the re-release of these classics, EA aims to remind long-time fans of the joyous chaos accompanying the original games, as players shape lives, build relationships, and craft stories within the quirky worlds. Overall, this milestone repackaging not only marks the anniversary but also reinforces the strong community surrounding the franchise, encouraging players to reflect on the journeys of their virtual families as they explore the pathways of Sims’ lives.
Overall, the Legacy Collections are more than just remasters for nostalgic gamers—they're reopening the door to enchanting digital lives waiting to be rediscovered. Whether seasoned players are revisiting their beloved characters or newcomers are joining the ranks of Simmers for the first time, there's much excitement surrounding this 25th anniversary offering.