Since its launch in 2014, The Sims 4 has remained popular. The life simulation game, which allows players to create their own characters and live a semi-realistic life, appeals to both hardcore and casual players. Although The Sims 4 had plenty of features to offer when it launched, EA has added dozens of DLC packs that players can purchase to enhance their experience, but getting access to all of these is far too expensive for many players.
The Sims 4 DLC packs add fun new features, such as going to university or becoming a vampire, but the prices of these expansions can be steep. Purchasing all 34 packs of DLC for The Sims 4 would cost over $600 USD, a number many players may find unrealistic to spend on a single game. If EA were to switch to a subscription-based model, it would provide an opportunity for more many players to enjoy the game’s full experience.
Similar to games with traditional subscription models, such as World of Warcraft, The Sims 4 could have an all-access subscription paid on a monthly basis. Although this type of payment can certainly add up, it would allow players to pick and choose when they are willing to spend money, rather than commit to spending a large lump sum. The model would benefit EA, since many players who were previously discouraged by the DLC prices would likely be willing to pay smaller increments to enjoy the new content. Since the full game has such a large amount of content, it’s likely many players would keep their subscriptions for months at a time.
How A Subscription Service Could Improve The Sims' Gallery
The Sims 4's Gallery could also benefit from a subscription-based model. The Gallery lets players upload their creations and download the works of others. These Gallery downloads can be important for making a player’s world feel unique, but the current DLC model can, unfortunately, make using it a challenging experience. Players are generally unable to download Gallery items that include DLC content they do not own, since doing so can result in half-furnished homes and naked characters. While players can filter what DLC content is used within the gallery, this option severely cuts down what is available to them. With a subscription-based model, every The Sims 4 player would have access to the exact same content, and therefore none of the creative The Sims 4 community’s work would go to waste.
If The Sims 4 were to move to a subscription-based model, EA would also be able to provide a free trial period for new Sims players. Standard trial periods consist of a full month of playtime, which would allow new players to get a feel for a game without risk. The Sims 4 could even choose to limit what DLC content is available during the trial, making an actual subscription even more enticing. Unlike the game’s current model, which boasts an intimidating list of DLC on the main menu, a trial would be a welcoming option for casual players interested in the game.
As The Sims 4 continues to expand, the entirety of the game's content will only get more expensive. EA needs to consider ways it can make all of the game’s new content accessible, and a traditional subscription service is a proven option.