The Sims is a popular life simulation game where players create, customize, and control characters known as Sims. The Sims age rating for the newest addition, The Sims 4, is T for teens. But with romantic interactions and user-generated mods that introduce mature content, parents may have concerns. Here’s our take on The Sims 4’s content and what families should know before letting kids play.
The Sims 4 is available on PC, Mac, PlayStation, and Xbox.
While the built-in options for gameplay in The Sims is fairly tame, user-generated mods and expansion packs can introduce more adult content. These include:
In general, the expansion packs are fairly tame, but the mods can get pretty edgy. Parents need to be aware of this possibility, monitor their child’s use accordingly, and encourage their children to only download mods from trusted sources.
There’s no crude language or swearing in the game. Because the players speak “Simish,” even when they do become upset, their angry words are unintelligible.
Players can choose what their Sims wear, and the wardrobe choices include plenty of revealing outfits and even underwear. Sims technically get naked to shower, but privacy screens hide their bodies. A lot of the social interactions are centered around romance and players can make their Sims flirt, hug, and kiss.
They can even have sex, although it’s referred to as “WooHoo” or to “try for a baby.” The action takes place under the covers with hearts and smoke effects. It’s definitely suggestive and likely to be titillating for younger players, but it’s also not R-rated.
However, players can purchase add-on packs that have even more scandalous clothing or download free, community-created “adult mods” that allow players to spice things up in the romance department.
Players can keep interactions peaceful or choose to have their Sims get into fights, including physical ones. These brawls are depicted through angry faces, an animation of a dust cloud, and a flurry of fists. Players can add mods that allow for weapons and extreme violence.
When using certain mods, Sims can be shot, electrocuted, and even set on fire with a flamethrower. They can also die, including by starvation. Deaths are portrayed by the Grim Reaper appearing to remove the Sim’s remains.
There’s no substance use in standard gameplay in The Sims 4, but some mods do include drugs and alcohol.
For example, the Basemental Drugs mod introduces a slew of substances Sims can use and includes altered behavior, cravings, hangovers, addiction, and rehab.
The Sims 4 can be kept PG-13 if parents set limits on mods and expansions. However, because it simulates real-life experiences and allows romantic interactions, violence, and mature mods, it’s best suited for mature teens and older players.
If you’re concerned about what your child may be watching, BrightCanary can help you supervise their viewing and other online activity. While BrightCanary doesn’t cover gaming platforms, the app’s advanced technology scans your child’s social media, Google, YouTube, and messages and alerts you when they encounter something concerning. It’s a great way to monitor what media your children are interested in.
Try BrightCanary today for new insights into your child’s digital world. Get started for free now!
