EA and Maxis recently revealed the next The Sims 4 expansion pack called Snowy Escape. The team made it clear that the new world was inspired by Japan, from its hot springs to Mt. Fuji-inspired Mt. Komorebi.
However, not all The Sims 4 players were thrilled about some of the imagery in the Snowy Escape trailer. Many Korean players in the comments pointed out the use of the “rising sun” pattern used on some of the clothing, which is deemed as offensive. Japan no longer uses this imagery, and players were surprised that no one informed the developers. Others believed that the pattern was not the “rising sun” but a fan pattern, but it was difficult to tell from a single trailer image.
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Commenters also pointed out the religious shrines, where a Sim is seen bowing. The series has mostly stayed away from religious activities, so many were surprised to see this in the trailer. This moment in the trailer was also called out by Korean commenters.
Maxis was quick to address the issues. In a Twitter thread, SimGuruGraham first apologized, then stated that the team was working quickly to address the criticisms. The trailer was the first to receive the changes.
Snowy Escape will no longer use the “rising sun” pattern. Any clothing or furniture items using this pattern was immediately updated. Bowing in front of shrines was also removed. The trailer was immediately updated with the revised content.
The Sims team announced weeks ago that they were working to become a more inclusive experience for everyone. They have already begun to roll out updates that revamp certain hairstyles. In a few weeks, there are plans to release a major base game update with new skin tones and makeup options. Both will include a color wheel since the update includes over 100 options.
Others were slightly more critical of Maxis’ actions. They wondered why it took the developer over five years to update the game’s Create-a-Sim options but worked within a few days to address feedback within Snowy Escape.
Some players were upset that Maxis was changing their “original vision” in response to fan feedback, even creating a Change.org petition. However, the petition has had little response, with only around 300 out of 500 responses so far. Maxis made it clear it was a mistake and already made the changes.
Overall, Maxis is working on listening more to player feedback, even if they don’t quickly resolve the issues. In a past statement, the developer stated that making the game more inclusive is a journey and not a single goal.
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The Sims 4: Snowy Escape launches on November 13 for PC, Mac, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.