To Fans' Chagrin, The Sims 4 Doesn't Include Pools or Toddlers in Base Game

The Sims games are notorious for receiving numerous expansion packs, and some fans of the series are already worried that trend will continue in The Sims 4. In a blog post offering some details on the new game, producer Ryan Vaughan has revealed two things that will be missing come September: pools and toddlers.

Talking up the impressive-looking house construction we've seen previously, Vaughan wrote, "And though pool building won't be available in September, we do have a new Fountain Tool so you can create sophisticated landscapes. Whether you were a novice builder in The Sims 3, or an experienced pro, I really think you're going to love The Sims 4's build mode." He goes on to note Sims' ability to travel between not just neighborhoods, but also worlds; the fact that it's possible to disable online sharing; and the absence of toddlers, meaning characters will skip that stage of development.

The absence of pools or toddlers may seem like insignificant omissions to some, and the blog largely downplays them. But fans are upset that two components of previous games are gone, and the following bit of the blog alludes to why: "And while we recognize that some of you will be disappointed that pools and toddlers won't be available when The Sims 4 Base Game launches in September, you should know that we're building an incredibly strong foundation that is capable of fulfilling every one of your desires in the years to come."

As noted above, to say The Sims games have received numerous expansion packs would be a dramatic understatement. And to hear that something seemingly basic like pools--I mean, who doesn't enjoy having a pool in their virtual backyard?--will not be included in the "base game" brings to mind the prospect of having to buy countless add-ons in order to get the full experience that you're hoping to get.

In response, fans have taken to places like Reddit and Sims fan sites to express their disappointment and concern. And, of course, a petition has been created (and signed by nearly 2,000 people already) to get the two features put into the game.

It's possible, of course, that one or both of these features will be implemented in a free update, rather than a patch--after all, EA CEO Andrew Wilson has spoken recently about making the Sims publisher a "player-first" company. However, at least for the time being, you can't blame fans for being cynical given the franchise's track record.