Project Rene Leaks Reveal “Disappointing” Mobile Gaming Mechanics

Over the past few days, new footage of a test version of Project Rene has reportedly leaked online, showing several changes that have left the The Sims community disappointed. At first glance, it looks like Electronic Arts has changed the conceptual style presented so many months ago, moving to a more mobile-friendly design with “tedious” tasks and microtransactions.

On September 17, the team announced that there were no plans to release The Sims 5 and would instead continue to push updates for The Sims 4, the ten-year-old title.

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Project Rene has been in development for the longest time, and the Electronic Arts team hasn't exactly been forthcoming with updates. From leaks about an open-world map to a developer diary that revealed some prototype art for the game, details have been poured into the community over the past few years.

Over the past few days, some leaked images have surfaced online that supposedly reveal a more recent test version of Project Rene. These images have led to fans taking action against the developers for creating a seemingly typical and rather generic mobile game:

Ironically, it was announced in January 2024 that The Sims Mobile would not receive any further updates. It's almost set in stone that Project Rene will be some sort of replacement for the mobile title that's been online for so many years, but some fans aren't happy with that reveal.

In the leaked screenshots, we see a microtransactions tab run by “Simoleons” and some examples of quests that users complete to earn XP and in-game currency. It is assumed that they will use this currency to unlock clothing, furniture, and other items, making this game as quintessential a mobile game as you could hope for.

In addition to these images, a post surfaced on Reddit from a user participating in an ongoing playtest. They explained that it is a game based on a “collaborative multiplayer experience” where players build relationships with other, real players.

Are you worried that Project Rene is going in the wrong direction? Let us know in the Insider Gaming forums.

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