Key Highlights:
- The Sims 4 introduces “Play in Colour” update, enhancing diversity and inclusivity.
- Free update offers 24 new hair colour combinations for Black characters, inspired by Dark & Lovely.
- Collaboration with Dark & Lovely and sims creator Ebonix brings locs hairstyle in July 2024.
- Focus on authentic representation and cultural sensitivity in character customisation.
The virtual world of The Sims 4 is becoming even more inclusive and representative of real-world diversity. Game developer Maxis has released a new game update focused on introducing additional hairstyle and colour options specifically for Black characters and players.
The developers posted a tweet with an embedded video showcasing the new content which you can view below:
Titled the “Play in Colour” content drop, this latest free update allows players to customise their Sims hairstyles in 24 different colour combinations across two existing hairstyles. The new colour choices draw direct inspiration from the popular Dark & Lovely “Immersive Bolds” hair colour collection.
The introduction of these vivid, expressive new hair colour options marks a significant step towards greater representation and inclusivity within The Sims 4’s character customisation suite.
It empowers players of colour to craft avatars that authentically reflect their personal styles, identities and cultures.
But the “Play in Colour” additions don’t stop there. In an exciting collaboration with haircare brand Dark & Lovely and influential sims creator Danielle “Ebonix” Udogaranya, Maxis also revealed an all-new locs hairstyle will be coming to the game in July 2024.
Locs, also known as dreadlocks, are a natural hair texture and style with deep cultural roots, predominantly across the African diaspora. Adding an official locs option showcases Maxis’ commitment to diversifying the customisation options available while avoiding promoting potential cultural insensitivity or appropriation.
“The Sims series has always been a place where players can create their Sims however they desire, without rules or boundaries, and we aim to continue to prioritise inclusivity with ‘Play in Colour'”, stated Ebonix. “It was an honour to help bring more authentic experiences to the game.”
Inclusivity Beyond Appearance: EA’s Commitment to Diversity
The Sims 4’s latest diversity-driven content drop continues the game’s long history of striving to create virtual spaces where everyone can feel genuinely seen and represented.
Previous updates have added inclusive features like cosmetic skin conditions, gender-neutral washrooms, Muslim heritage clothing, and much more.
While embracing diversity is a noble cause, Maxis is also incentivising players to experience the new “Play in Colour” content immediately.
As an added bonus, the studio has announced the previously released Blooming Rooms Kit DLC pack will soon become available for free across all platforms.
Typically sold for £4.99/$4.99, this decorative stuff pack allows players to customise their Sims homes with a variety of floral designs, wallpapers, furniture and architectural overhauls themed around plant life and gardening. Making it free removes a financial barrier impacting some players’ access.
Between powerful new character customisation options reflecting authentic cultural experiences and free bonus content to explore them with, The Sims 4’s “Play in Colour” update exemplifies gaming’s potential as an infinitely inclusive artistic medium.
As developers and communities continue pushing for greater representation across the medium, updates like this allow the strategy title to firmly cement its status as an industry leader in creating vibrant virtual worlds where everyone belongs.