My introduction to The Sims was right after my father’s death from cancer, way back when I was still a preteen. Black skin, Black hair, Black body types, Black clothing, and Black trends move the needle in so many spaces in the real world, so why not in The Sims? But with this content void comes a beautiful opportunity to give the people what they want, and it’s coming from some of the game’s most dedicated players. To EA’s credit, they’ve listened and updated content, but there is still a huge gap between what they produce and what Simmers feel EA lacks-Blackness. The hair, skin, and makeup are better suited for their lighter and whiter Sims. Whenever Sims publisher Electronic Arts releases new content, where Black people are concerned, there are issues with the content. But in truth, it’s not that simple to get it right. A simulation game like Sims 4 should be able to deliver an image of a player-one that makes them feel whole.
And while The Sims 4 has been successful in delivering those fictional worlds to play in, it hasn’t done so well in representation. In The Sims 4, players whisk themselves away to predetermined, idyllic towns full of simulations where you can be whoever you want, whenever you want.
