Queer fans of The Sims express worry over new EA ownership – here’s why
Players say the buyers are “not safe” and fear what this could mean for the future of LGBTQ+ representation in The Sims
By Aaron Sugg
The Sims has always been a beloved video game among LGBTQ+ players, though as Electronic Arts (EA) enters new ownership, fans are concerned about what it might mean for the future of the franchise.
EA was taken private in a $55 billion (£41 billion) deal involving Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), Silver Lake and Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner’s Affinity Partners in early August.
Saudi Arabia’s stance on LGBTQ+ rights is among the biggest concerns. In The Sims 4, the latest game in the life simulation franchise, same-sex relationships, marriages and families are fully supported.
LGBTQ+ representation in The Sims 4
In 2021, characters Brant and Brent Hecking were introduced as an LGBTQ+ couple in The Sims 4, as part of the Cats & Dogs expansion pack, alongside their pug, Rosie.
Other The Sims 4 options allow for gender customisation, including allowing players to change their Sims’ physical appearance and clothing according to different gender options. Many players have praised this as EA introducing greater representation for intersex and non-binary players.
Under Saudi Arabian law, same-sex sexual activity and non-traditional gender expression are criminalised. Gender-affirming care is banned, public advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights is illegal, and same-sex marriage, civil unions and domestic partnerships are not recognised.
What does EA’s new ownership mean for the future of The Sims?
Though it has not been confirmed that Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund plans to change the LGBTQ+-inclusive scope of the game, those in the industry have warned that private investors can be “typically aggressive in their management of companies”.
According to BBC News, Christopher Dring, editor-in-chief and co-founder of The Game Business, said the nature of the buyout is likely to mean “a very hands-on approach from the investment group”.
The Sims community is already responding. Popular creator Kayla Sims (lilsimsie) has spoken about the acquisition and worked with Congressman Maxwell Frost, while some LGBTQ+ players have discussed boycotting the franchise.
Kayla Sims says the new owners are “not safe”
Speaking to KQED, lilsimsie said: “It’s really frustrating to have something that has been such a safe space for so long be bought out by people that are not safe.”
According to the outlet, 43 per cent of The Sims’ audience identifies as LGBTQ+, with 17 per cent identifying as gender-fluid or trans.