Maxis, the studio responsible for The Sims 4, has unveiled a new update focused on expanding the game's content by providing additional hair customization options for Black characters. With an emphasis on inclusivity and authentic representation, this update introduces a variety of color combinations across two hairstyles, offering players a broader range of options for self-expression in The Sims 4's virtual world.
Despite being nearly a decade old, The Sims 4 continues to receive regular updates. The developers seem to prioritize the implementation of fan-requested features, particularly those that enhance inclusivity. Many fans of the franchise consider The Sims to be one of the most inclusive games ever created, a sentiment attributed to the studio's ongoing efforts. For instance, a previous update to The Sims 4 introduced vitiligo, a skin condition, in collaboration with Winnie Harlow, which was positively received by the community.
The Sims 4 Receives Exciting Content in Latest Update
Now, Maxis's latest endeavor to bring further inclusivity within The Sims 4 saw the developer collaborating with the popular hair care brand Dark & Lovely and influential gaming content creator Danielle “Ebonix” Udogaranya, who has previously collaborated with The Sims franchise to create skin tones and nails. The collaboration resulted in a campaign named "Play in Color," introducing a range of new content aimed at addressing underrepresentation of "marginalized communities," particularly Black hairstyles, according to the game's publisher EA.
The update allows players to gain access to "24 color combinations across two existing hairstyles," drawing inspiration from Dark & Lovely's Immersive Bolds hair color collection. This addition offers players greater flexibility in customizing their Sims' appearances, with a broader spectrum of hair color options reflecting real-world diversity.
Close
Additionally, a new locs hairstyle developed in collaboration with Dark & Lovely will be made available to players in July 2024, further expanding the range of hairstyle options in The Sims 4. Overall, this collaboration showcases a commitment to creating virtual worlds where everyone can feel seen and represented. As Maxis and its partners continue to work towards this goal, they set a powerful example for the industry as a whole, demonstrating that inclusivity is not just a value to uphold but a necessity for fostering truly immersive and meaningful gaming experiences.
While updates to any game, whether focused on introducing new content or fixing bugs, are generally welcomed, there's more news for The Sims 4 that has sparked additional excitement in the community. EA recently confirmed that the Blooming Rooms Kit DLC will soon be available to players for free, a significant gesture considering its usual price of $4.99 / €4.99.
The Sims 4
The Sims 4 is the latest offering from Maxis and The Sims Studio, serving as a sequel to The Sims 3. Although it was released back in 2014, the game is still going strong today thanks to an array of DLC add-on packs that give players access to more unlockable items and events.
Franchise
The Sims
Platform(s)
PS4 , Xbox One , PC
Released
September 2, 2014
Developer(s)
Maxis
Publisher(s)
Electronic Arts
Genre(s)
Simulation
ESRB
T for Teen: Crude Humor, Sexual Themes, Violence
See at Official SiteSee at SteamSee at Xbox Games StoreSee at Playstation StoreSee at Amazon
