The Sims 4 Update Adds New Content

gamerant.com:

Maxis, the studio responsible for The Sims 4, has unveiled a new update focused on expanding the game's content by providing additional hair customization options for Black characters. With an emphasis on inclusivity and authentic representation, this update introduces a variety of color combinations across two hairstyles, offering players a broader range of options for self-expression in The Sims 4's virtual world.

Despite being nearly a decade old, The Sims 4 continues to receive regular updates. The developers seem to prioritize the implementation of fan-requested features, particularly those that enhance inclusivity. Many fans of the franchise consider The Sims to be one of the most inclusive games ever created, a sentiment attributed to the studio's ongoing efforts. For instance, a previous update to The Sims 4 introduced vitiligo, a skin condition, in collaboration with Winnie Harlow, which was positively received by the community.

Now, Maxis's latest endeavor to bring further inclusivity within The Sims 4 saw the developer collaborating with the popular hair care brand Dark & Lovely and influential gaming content creator Danielle “Ebonix” Udogaranya, who has previously collaborated with The Sims franchise to create skin tones and nails. The collaboration resulted in a campaign named «Play in Color,» introducing a range of new content aimed at addressing underrepresentation of «marginalized communities,» particularly Black hairstyles, according to the game's publisher EA.

The update allows players to gain access to «24 color combinations across two existing hairstyles,» drawing inspiration from Dark & Lovely's Immersive Bolds hair color collection. This addition offers players greater flexibility in customizing their Sims' appearances, with a broader spectrum of hair color options reflecting real-world diversity.

Additionally, a new locs hairstyle developed in collaboration with Dark & Lovely will be made available to players in July 2024, further expanding