Classic Sims Games Make a Comeback: The Best Re-Releases and Updates

The Sims, one of the most iconic life simulation games, is making a comeback with the re-release of its first two games, The Sims 1 and The Sims 2. These classic titles, which revolutionized the gaming industry, will be available on PC starting January 31, 2025, with all their respective expansion packs included. This move is a nod to the series’ rich history and a chance for both old and new fans to experience the original gameplay that defined the genre. The re-releases come at an exciting time for the series, with EA also teasing a major update, Project Rene, which promises to bring multiplayer features to the latest installment.

The Sims, a game that has been a staple in many gamers’ libraries since its release in 2000, is set to make a significant comeback. Electronic Arts (EA) has announced the re-release of The Sims 1 and The Sims 2, two of the most beloved games in the series. These classic titles, which were once the highest-selling PC games of all time, will be available on Windows 10 and 11 operating systems starting January 31, 2025, at 10:00 AM CST1.
The re-releases will include all the post-release expansions for both games. For The Sims 1, this means Livin’ Large, House Party, Hot Date, Vacation, Unleashed, Superstar, and Makin’ Magic. For The Sims 2, the expansions include University, Nightlife, Open for Business, Pets, Seasons, Bon Voyage, FreeTime, and Apartment Life1. These expansions add significant new gameplay features, ensuring that the re-releases offer substantial value to both old and new fans.
The original Sims games were groundbreaking in their time, allowing players to build homes, create characters, and guide them through their relationships and careers. The sequel, The Sims 2, deepened the gameplay with aging and life stages, genetics, and distinct personalities for the virtual humans4. However, due to the evolution of PC hardware and operating systems, these classic games have remained unplayable on modern rigs for over a decade.
The re-releases come at an interesting time for the series. It has been 11 years since the most recent installment, The Sims 4, was released on all major platforms. EA has also been teasing a major update, Project Rene, which promises to bring multiplayer features to the latest installment. This update has been in playtests since at least 2022 and is expected to be a significant addition to the series4.

When are The Sims 1 and 2 re-releasing?
The Sims 1 and 2 are re-releasing on January 31, 2025, at 10:00 AM CST1.
What operating systems will the re-releases support?
The re-releases will support Windows 10 and 11 operating systems1.
Will the re-releases include all expansion packs?
Yes, the re-releases will include all post-release expansions for both games1.
What are some of the notable expansions for The Sims 1?
Notable expansions for The Sims 1 include Livin’ Large, House Party, Hot Date, Vacation, Unleashed, Superstar, and Makin’ Magic1.
What are some of the notable expansions for The Sims 2?
Notable expansions for The Sims 2 include University, Nightlife, Open for Business, Pets, Seasons, Bon Voyage, FreeTime, and Apartment Life1.
Why have The Sims 1 and 2 been unplayable on modern rigs?
The games have been unplayable due to the evolution of PC hardware and operating systems, requiring obsolete CD or DVD-ROM drives for the original game4.
What is Project Rene?
Project Rene is a major update for The Sims 4, promising to bring multiplayer features to the latest installment4.
When was The Sims 4 released?
The Sims 4 was released 11 years ago, in 20144.
Are there any other life simulation games in the market?
Yes, there are other life simulation games like inZoi and Paralives, which have been gaining popularity in the absence of a proper sequel to The Sims4.
What is the significance of this re-release for The Sims series?
The re-release is significant as it brings back two of the most beloved games in the series, maintaining interest in the 25-year-old franchise and setting the stage for future updates like Project Rene4.

The re-release of The Sims 1 and 2 marks a significant milestone for the life simulation genre. These classic games, which revolutionized gaming by allowing players to build homes and guide virtual characters through their lives, are now playable on modern PCs. With all their respective expansion packs included, this re-release offers a comprehensive reintroduction to where the series started. As EA continues to tease major updates like Project Rene, it’s clear that The Sims series still has a lot of life left in it, both in terms of gameplay and community engagement.