A new Sims game is in the works, and it's available now in Australia – but it's not quite what you might expect. "The Sims Labs: Town Stories," a mobile simulation game, is currently in its playtest phase. This isn't the Sims 5, but rather a project designed to test new gameplay mechanics and features for the franchise as part of EA's broader Sims Labs initiative launched last August.
While not yet globally available for download, you can find its Google Play listing and register for access through EA's website. This playtest is currently exclusive to Australia.
Initial Reactions to The Sims Labs: Town Stories
The game's initial reception has been mixed, with some players expressing concern over the graphics and suggesting a potential reliance on microtransactions.
Town Stories blends classic Sims-style town building with character-driven narratives. Players build neighborhoods, guide residents through personal stories, manage Sims' careers, and uncover secrets within the game's world, Plumbrook.
Based on available footage and screenshots, the gameplay appears similar to earlier Sims titles. Given its experimental nature, this likely reflects EA testing concepts for future iterations.
Interested in checking it out? Search for it on the Google Play Store. Australian players can even try it now! Stay tuned for our next article covering Shop Titans' Halloween event.