The Sims 5 rumoured to be free-to-play at launch
The Sims 5 is rumoured to be free-to-play at launch, following a new job listing.
With a working title of Project Rene, the next core entry in the life-simulation series is currently in development — and it looks like fans might be able to start playing at no cost when it's eventually released.
EA is advertising for a Head of Monetization & Marketplace for Project Rene (via @TheHenfordHen on Twitter), and an interesting detail in the listing is that Project Rene has been described as a "free-to-enter game".
Related: The Sims 4 reveals winners of Kits community vote
This lines up with comments that Giant Bomb journalist and industry insider Jeff Grubb made last September, where he said that The Sims 5 could be a live-service game.
"I think they're ready to change how they approach their big numbered sequels going forward including with The Sims," he said at the time.
Digital Spy has reached out to EA for comment.
A free-to-play approach would match the current strategy for The Sims 4, after its base game was made free to all players in October. For The Sims 4 (which has established a huge player base), revenue is made through its paid content, from full expansions to smaller-sized Kits.
The Sims 3, in addition to expansions, had a separate store where players could spend money to purchase a range of exclusive individual items, including hair styles, clothing, and worlds.
Elsewhere, fans of the franchise received an update on how The Sims 5's development has been progressing in this week's Behind The Sims stream.
The team shared that they were working on a number of prototypes, including for lighting, animation, hair styles, and simulation.
They also showed a prototype of an open neighbourhood, with numerous Sims existing in an outdoor environment and going about their daily lives.
A lot can change between now and the game's final release, but the Behind The Sims stream provided insight into the current vision and aims for the project.
Related: The Sims 4 free update adds Jewish food and Caliente family makeover
The Sims 5 is still likely a few years away from being released, though support and content for The Sims 4 continues in the meantime.
Horse Ranch is the next expansion pack for the current game. It's set to be released on Thursday, July 20.
The Sims 4 is available on PC, Mac, PlayStation 4 and 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S.
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