Since its debut on PC in 2000, The Sims by Electronic Arts, has remained one of the most popular video game franchises.
The Sims 4 introduces vitiligo through a complimentary update, enabling players to incorporate the skin condition into their Sims’ appearances. The latest patch is currently accessible, offering an enticing reason to immerse yourself in this beloved life simulation game and perhaps bid farewell to your productivity.
Yesterday’s announcement unveils a new update for The Sims 4. Players can incorporate vitiligo patches into their Sims’ appearance using the Create-a-Sim character creator. The update offers multiple options with different degrees of coverage on the face, upper torso, lower torso, arms, and legs.
The Sims 4 associate producer, Ash Wait said in a statement, “Altogether there are 61 pieces ranging from a light to heavier coverage. “Some of the heavier body patterns will have multiple swatch choices so players can make one side heavier if they wish. Simmers can also add these to any age of Sim, from infants to elders. This comes out to 305 patterns total!” He added.
The latest update enables players with vitiligo to recreate themselves accurately as Sims in the game. EA is also consistently committed to making the game experience more thrilling, such as exploring dangerous locales.
Furthermore, to commemorate the vitiligo update, The Sims 4 collaborated with model Winnie Harlow, who has had the skin condition since she was four. Having once revealed her experience of being bullied for her vitiligo during school, Harlow expressed her delight in seeing it introduced to The Sims 4, describing it as “magical.”
“As a child, I spent a lot of time playing The Sims and I think it’s so beautiful to be able to represent your true self in-game,” Harlow said. “This partnership is a powerful statement encouraging players to embrace what makes them unique — both in-game and in real life.”
As part of the collaboration with Harlow, players can download a playable Sim version of her from the Gallery through the Maxis gallery account. Additionally, she collaborated with The Sims team to design her dream house in-game.
Vitiligo is a medical condition characterized by the loss of pigmentation in certain areas of the skin, resulting in pale patches. While it typically doesn’t pose immediate health risks, it can significantly affect one’s appearance, potentially leading to social and mental health challenges. Approximately one percent of the population experiences this skin condition.
Maxis’ recent update for The Sims 4, introducing vitiligo, is part of their ongoing commitment to inclusivity within the game. This follows previous free patches, including features like surgery scars, binders, shapewear, and medical wearables added last year.
According to Wait, this dedication to representation will persist in future updates, with plans to further enhance The Sims 4’s portrayal of diverse individuals for years ahead.
Exploring the New Vitiligo Feature: A Guide for Players
Once you’ve completed today’s update, you’ll discover the latest Vitiligo additions in Create-A-Sim. Navigate to the Skin Details section for either the Face or Body options. These new additions will appear just before the Birthmarks introduced in the Growing Together Base Game update. You can select patches for various parts of your Sim’s physique, including the face, upper torso, lower torso, arms, and legs.
Many Vitiligo patterns will offer multiple variations, allowing you to begin with a more subtle portion of the pattern or immediately opt for the complete pattern. All age groups will have access to the same selections, ensuring consistency or the ability to adjust choices over time as your Sims age.
