'The Sims,' gaming's ultimate social sandbox, turns 25
Briefly

The Sims, created by Will Wright and released in 2000, is a groundbreaking life simulation game that allows players to design characters, homes, and relationships. Its open-ended design mirrors the choices players face in their lives, with Wright emphasizing that everyday decisions are a strategic game. Having sold over 200 million copies, the franchise has reached more than 500 million players and logged 1.2 billion hours in 2024. Its cultural impact endures, thanks to inclusive relationships and a thriving modding community, while a Sims movie adaptation is forthcoming.
Near the end of the manual for the first game in The Sims series, players were given a recommended readings list that included social theory, economics and time management.
The Sims, its three sequels and numerous expansion packs have sold a combined 200 million copies. Publisher EA says the franchise has attracted more than 500 million players since its inception.
Read at www.npr.org
[
|
]