The Sims 4 Community Survey Hints at Significant Gameplay Overhaul

A new community survey for The Sims 4 may indicate that Maxis is considering potentially massive changes to the game’s systems.

After an initial question pertaining to the performance of the most recent update, the survey queries about new relationship features. Among these are long-term attitudinal changes based on previous interactions, short-term emotional states based on recent interactions, and a wider array of relationship dynamics. At present in The Sims 4, a Sim’s emotional state can affect the range of actions available at any given time, but these potential new features would radically expand the complexity of relationships.

A follow-question asks about new gameplay options, the most intriguing of which is the first, which would give players a more granular level of control over the lifestyle and personality of their Sims. The other listed features include vacations, resort management, and second house ownership. The mention of resorts may hint at a focus on snow-based activities for The Sims 4, as the next question gauges player interest in activities such as skiing, ice fishing, and snowboarding.

Yet another question asks about which key areas of gameplay are most in need of more content, with the options ranging from character traits and skills to careers and lot quirks. Later questions are more general, pertaining to the expansions most in need of extra polish or favored characters.

For anyone interested in providing feedback, the survey is still available.

The most recent addition to The Sims 4 came late last with the launch of the Discover University expansion, while a Tiny Living Stuff pack is set to launch for PC on Jan. 21 and PlayStation 4 and Xbox One on Feb. 4.