The Sims 4 Leak Reveals Another Expansion Could Be in the Works

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The vast majority of Sims fans are looking forward to Project Rene, but it seems that Electronic Arts isn't quite done with The Sims 4 just yet. Two new kits for The Sims 4 were recently released on short notice, and even though the pace of content has slowed down compared to previous years, Maxis is prepared to support the game in parallel with the development of The Sims 5 through its European studio, initially opened in 2019 alongside its Texas branch.

Having released a grand total of 13 expansions and 12 game packs thus far, there aren't that many avenues left to explore in The Sims 4 on a vertical level, as its gameplay has become varied enough to contend with its predecessors in a suitable way. That being said, while many believed Growing Together would be the last expansion for The Sims 4, there has always been one aspect missing from the game's content updates when it came to pets and animals.

According to websites such as CDKeys and Instant Gaming, online marketplaces known for selling serial keys via various distribution channels, the upcoming expansion for The Sims 4 will have an equestrian spin. Dubbed Horse Ranch, this content update will seemingly allow Sims players to create, tend to, and play with their favorite hoofed companions. Though not confirmed by the leak itself, it can be assumed that horses will function similarly to cats and dogs in The Sims 4, counting as full-fledged household members with their own unique way of interacting in the world.

Though this may come as a surprise to Sims fans who haven't stayed up to date with the game's community, Electronic Arts frequently teased a content pack related to horses in the past few months. By branding itself as an expansion, players should expect to receive plenty of additions to The Sims 4 when Horse Ranch launches, including a new map, and a myriad of new clothes, accessories, and furniture, albeit for a hefty price tag of $39.99. A frequent criticism of The Sims 4 has been the price of its DLCs, and many fans are hoping that the developers opt for a more consumer-friendly way to monetize Project Rene.

As strange as it may sound, the consensus seems to be that The Sims 5 would do well with a Battle Pass system. It cannot be denied that the franchise has a strong core of loyal fans, but the entry point for new players has gotten unattainably expensive in recent years. By embracing a live service model that has worked for titles such as Genshin Impact, Maxis would be able to properly support the game with a steady pace of content, while making The Sims 5 accessible to newcomers.

The Sims 4 is available on PC, PS4, and Xbox One.