EA is turning back the clock as it celebrates the 25th anniversary of The Sims franchise by making the original The Sims and The Sims 2 available once again on PC. Available through digital storefronts like Steam and the Epic Games Store, this re-release includes both games along with numerous expansions and bundles, allowing players to relive their beloved virtual lives from years past.
Fans have eagerly awaited the return of these classics. The Legacy Collection for The Sims offers the original game along with all expansion packs for $20, and for the sequel, the collection is priced at $30. Alternatively, players can purchase The Sims 25th Birthday Bundle, which includes both games for $40.
What makes this re-release particularly special is the catalog of content it brings along. Both the The Sims Legacy Collection and the The Sims 2 Legacy Collection include almost all available expansions. Although exclusive packs for the second title have been omitted due to licensing issues, fans will receive additional bonuses – with The Sims getting the Throwback Fit Kit and The Sims 2 receiving the Grunge Revival Kit.
According to reports, this marks the first time The Sims has been available on digital platforms since its initial release back in 2000, when players could only purchase it on physical discs. The trend continued for The Sims 2, which was last recorded available via the Ultimate Collection on EA’s Origin store, taken down some time thereafter. Now, players have easy access to both titles.
Rebekah Valentine of IGN reports, "Both games include all expansions and almost all stuff packs, as it looks like The Sims 2: Legacy Collection is missing the IKEA Home Stuff pack from 2008. But otherwise, everything's there." Her insights indicate the excitement shared among fans, as it highlights the significant gap since these titles could be easily acquired. The return of these games promises to stir nostalgia among older fans who grew up playing them.
This anticipation was heightened by EA’s recent teaser video showcasing elements from the early games, hinting at their return. For many players, the re-launch serves not just for nostalgia but also for the enjoyment of simpler gameplay styles, reminiscent of earlier years. These games are loved for their whimsy, quirky characters, and limitless possibilities to create and control virtual lives.
“From now on, you can fulfill your Sims’ dreams, guiding them through life’s stages and letting your creativity flourish,” EA noted, emphasizing the core mechanics of life simulation and character customization.
The launch aims to make the games more compatible with modern systems like Windows 10 and 11. Fans are also eager to tackle some classic challenges, with many planning to use favorite cheats and ploys, such as the infamous “rosebud” cheat to gain wealth or creating dramatic moments like deleting pool ladders to summon the Grim Reaper.
Despite some controversy over the lack of certain expansion packs, the overall mood is celebratory within the community, with longtime players thrilled to see these titles return. Comments on social media suggest fans are ready to wage creative battles, reliving their favorite moments from the earlier generations of The Sims.
Maxis has noted efforts to reach and accommodate players who enjoy the franchise across generations, reflecting its commitment to fans. The effort behind modernization, along with nostalgia, can bring both new and old players together.
To say these re-releases represent history seems almost understated. They reflect the evolution of gaming and the lasting appeal of life simulation, standing as cultural icons within the gaming community. With this anniversary, EA has not only revived early versions of the game but has birthed renewed interest for both die-hard fans and newcomers.
Overall, the re-release of The Sims and The Sims 2 has been met with widespread excitement and gratitude from players who understand the importance of these foundational games. They represent chapters of digital childhoods and creative exploration within gaming.
For fans interested, both titles can be found online now at various platforms. It’s more than just gaming; it’s about revisiting nostalgia, experiencing creativity, and engaging with the community of players old and new.