Get ready for some potentially heartbreaking news for mobile gamers: Electronic Arts (EA) is pulling the plug on 'The Sims Mobile' next January, ending its seven-year run. That's right, after more than 50 updates, the virtual lives you've meticulously crafted are facing an in-game apocalypse.
The 'Sims Mobile' team expressed their gratitude in a heartfelt blog post on EA's website, acknowledging the community's incredible creativity, kindness, and imagination. They thanked players for sharing their stories, builds, and Sims, stating they were proud to have been a part of the journey. As a parting gift, they've promised a few surprises leading up to the game's final sunset.
But here's where it gets controversial... While EA is releasing one last update in the coming months (the first part dropped on Monday), new players are already locked out. 'The Sims Mobile' was removed from both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store on Tuesday. This means only existing players who already have the game installed or have previously downloaded it can continue playing until the final day. Is this fair to potential new players who might just be discovering the joy of Sim-life?
And this is the part most people miss... The shutdown arrives shortly after EA announced a massive shift: a potential transition from a publicly traded company to a privately held one. The buyout deal, estimated at a staggering $55 billion, involves significant investment from firms like Silver Lake, Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, and Jared Kushner’s Affinity Partners. Could this change in ownership structure be influencing decisions about game development and support?
Don't panic just yet, Sim enthusiasts! The broader 'Sims' franchise is far from over. 'The Sims 4' received a new update in September, and EA has exciting plans for a future 'Sims' game that will delve into online multiplayer features. This suggests EA is simply shifting its focus, rather than abandoning the franchise altogether.
Now, let's shift gears to other happenings in the gaming world this week:
NEW RELEASES
Dinosaurs are back from extinction in 'Jurassic World Evolution 3', which stomped onto PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X and S on Tuesday. Developed by Frontier Developments in partnership with Universal Products & Experiences, this installment offers some exciting new features. According to the official description, players can experience a franchise first with adorable juvenile dinosaurs and a comprehensive breeding system. You'll also embark on an epic global campaign across stunning locations and shape your parks with powerful creative tools. Imagine raising baby dinosaurs and then unleashing them on unsuspecting virtual tourists! What kind of park will you build – a safe haven or a prehistoric theme park disaster waiting to happen?
EVENTS
The gaming and media company iam8bit is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a public art exhibit on Saturday, November 8, and Sunday, November 9, at Studio 8, 614 E 12th St. in Los Angeles. Over the past two decades, iam8bit has become a trendsetter in the gaming, art, and music scene. They have published three original games, produced over 300 albums, and pressed millions of records. The gallery exhibition will showcase iam8bit's origins and its continuing impact on the art and games landscape. A must-see for anyone interested in the intersection of gaming and artistic expression!
So, what are your thoughts on the 'Sims Mobile' shutdown? Are you disappointed, or do you think EA is making the right move to focus on other projects? And what kind of features are you hoping to see in the next generation of 'Sims' games? Let us know in the comments below!
