The Sims 4 Growing Together DLC is introducing more depth to the game, and the new content will include the possibility for family dynamics that haven't been an option in the previous games without the use of mods. However, these changes seem fitting given the recent focus on inclusivity in The Sims. Now, Growing Together will even include changes to adoption, a feature that's been part of the series since the original game.
The Sims 4 Growing Together adds plenty of content and features, especially for life stages in the game that haven't seen a lot of attention in previous expansion packs. In many ways, The Sims 4 Growing Together is like Generations, an expansion for The Sims 3 that added more comprehensive relationships and activities for Sims at all life stages. As an added feature, the new expansion includes a new adoption option that gives recognition to blended families.
Stepchildren Can Be Adopted In The Sims 4 Growing Together
Sims can now adopt their stepchildren in The Sims 4 Growing Together, which adds more dynamics and recognition to blended families. This shows that the game understands and acknowledges modern relationships, as previously stepparents could build relationships with their stepchildren and become friends, but never officially adopt them. As The Sims 4 works towards adding more inclusivity for demographics who may not have felt represented in the franchise's past, this is a small step that could have a big impact.
Modern Relationships & Inclusivity In The Sims 4
The Sims 4 Growing Together adds milestones and features that could be considered staples of some players' childhood experiences, such as sleepovers. The introduction of true blended families in Growing Together follows an inclusivity update from February 2023 that offers an array of options for players with disabilities and those who are transgender to feel represented. It seems fitting that a life simulation game is receiving content to reflect modern life and relationships within it.
The Sims 4 has always been a sandbox game that lets players take control of the way they play, but now Growing Together adds storytelling elements through the use of milestones and new aspirations. Between expansions and free updates for The Sims 4 in 2023, the game seems to be on track to address many features that it's been missing, and that players have been waiting for, such as the infant update that makes babies functionally more than a piece of furniture. Acknowledging blended families might seem like a small step for such a large game, but it can lead to more representation being added beyond the release of The Sims 4 Growing Together.
Source: The Sims/YouTube