Maxis: Sims 4 will run better on lower-end machines than Sims 3

The Sims fans running lower-end PCs are in luck, as Maxis has confirmed that The Sims 4 will run better on less-capable rigs than The Sims 3.

"We're really excited to say that players on lower-end machines are going to have a much better experience on The Sims 4 than they did with The Sims 3," producer Ryan Vaughn told Digital Spy at Gamescom.

Vaughn explained that Maxis understands that not all its players are running high-end machines and said the developer is optimizing the game to ensure players on all rigs are satisfied.

"Right now we're doing a lot of work to optimize the game's performance, cut down on loading screens, and make sure everything still looks as beautiful, the Sims feel as vibrant, and that your gameplay is just as much fun regardless of what spec you're playing on," he said.

Electronic Arts showed off gameplay for The Sims 4 this week at Gamescom. The game introduces emotional states, among other features, that aim to bolster the authenticity of the experience.

The Sims 4 launches for the PC and Mac in 2014. An Internet connection will not be required, as was the case for Maxis' controversial SimCity.