The Sims 5: Project Rene – Release date, gameplay, and everything we know

After years of speculation, EA has finally dropped the first big hint at The Sims 5 – or Die Sims 5, as fans in Europe know it. The Behind The Sims Summit gave fans a first look at what’s next for the franchise – currently being called Project Rene.

While no official Sims 5 release date has been confirmed yet, fans are buzzing over the early Project Rene gameplay footage and features teased in the reveal.

Rene, chosen for its ties to renewal, renaissance, and rebirth, promises a fresh evolution of the life-sim we all know and love.

A Quick History of The Sims

Since 2000, The Sims has been a cultural phenomenon, spawning sequels, expansion packs, and even a reality show.

The last main entry, The Sims 4 (2014), has stayed strong through constant updates and community-driven mods.

After more than a decade, fans are eager to see what The Sims 5 will bring to the digital dollhouse.

What We Know About Project Rene

EA has kept most details under wraps, but here’s what we know about The Sims 5 features so far:

• Improved Graphics & Customization: Expect more polished visuals, upgraded Sims models, and deeper freedom in decorating and building. The new color wheel replaces pre-set palettes, giving players control over every texture and tone.
• Expanded Life & Animation: EA is doubling down on realism, promising smoother animations and richer life events to make Sims 5 gameplay feel more authentic.
• Multiplayer for the First Time: For the first time in 20 years, The Sims 5 will include multiplayer. Players may visit each other’s homes, host parties, or collaborate on builds — all while keeping that signature single-player freedom.

EA President Laura Miele explained:

“As we think about the next generation of The Sims, it’s SUPER important to give players the best tools, the most flexibility, and new ways to expand their creativity and social connections.”

Inclusivity & Player Choice

Project Rene continues Maxis’ commitment to inclusivity. After The Sims 4 introduced trans and non-binary pronoun options in partnership with It Gets Better and GLAAD, fans expect The Sims 5 to go even further in offering custom identities and gender expressions. At its heart, The Sims remains a space for creativity and self-expression.

Project Rene Showcase

During the Behind The Sims Summit on October 18, streamers got a sneak peek at early Project Rene gameplay. Highlights included:

• A revamped Build & Buy system
• Advanced customization tools for characters and interiors
• New UI interfaces designed for realism and ease
• Early tests for cross-platform play and shared libraries

It’s still early, but the demo hinted that Project Rene could be the most social, flexible, and creative Sims experience yet.

Latest Updates on Project Rene

EA reaffirmed in July 2025 that Project Rene is a major focus for the company. Laura Miele confirmed that the team is “hard at work and feverishly developing” the multiplayer platform, which will integrate cross-platform play and advanced creation tools.

However, despite the hype, there’s currently no official game called The Sims 5. EA clarified that Project Rene is a parallel experience rather than a direct sequel. The Sims 4 will continue receiving new content, packs, and updates, ensuring long-time players aren’t left behind.

The Sims 5 release window is still a mystery, and details about how Project Rene might link to Sims 4 content remain unconfirmed. Console support hasn’t been specified either, though PC and mobile platforms are expected.

Taking Fandom Beyond the Game

The Sims fandom stretches far beyond the screen. Many players bring their in-game creativity into real life — from custom stickers and pins to fan art and 3D-printed Sim figures. After all, if you’ve spent hours perfecting a Sim home, why not show it off IRL too?

FAQs: The Sims 5 / Project Rene

When is The Sims 5 release date?

EA hasn’t confirmed a release date for The Sims 5 or Project Rene yet. Development is still underway, with updates expected over the next year.

Will The Sims 5 have multiplayer?

Yes. Project Rene will feature multiplayer and cross-platform play for the first time in Sims history.

Is The Sims 5 replacing The Sims 4?

No. EA says Project Rene will exist alongside The Sims 4, not replace it. Players can enjoy both.

What platforms will The Sims 5 be on?

While not confirmed, PC and mobile are certain, and next-gen consoles like PS5 and Xbox Series X/S are likely candidates.

Project Rene, also known as The Sims 5, is shaping up to be the most ambitious life-sim yet — blending creativity, inclusivity, and social play in ways we’ve never seen before.

Whether you’re here to build dream homes or burn them down, the next era of The Sims is looking seriously exciting.

Updated for 2025.