What is Project Rene
Project Rene is a social multiplayer game from Maxis set in The Sims universe. Originally announced as the next generation of The Sims, the project has since evolved into a mobile-first experience centered on collaborative play. Maxis has confirmed that Project Rene is a separate experience from any future single-player life simulation and is not a direct successor to The Sims 4.
Development through playtesting
Maxis has involved the community in Project Rene from early in development. The first private playtest launched in fall 2022 under the name "Apartment Customization," letting players test interior design, furniture customization, and collaborative room design on both mobile and PC. Game Director Grant Rodiek described the test as covering "a wide variety of critical experiences and technology for the overall project," including how customized objects interact with Sim behavior and movement.
The team has continued running playtests and limited market tests since then, using player feedback to reshape tools and interfaces. VP of Creative Lyndsay Pearson noted that involving players early gives the team a chance to iterate and share the story of how these experiences are made. Development updates have also been shared through the Behind The Sims video series.
Confirmed gameplay scope
Project Rene supports both mobile and PC and is built around social and collaborative features. Systems confirmed for development include simulation, creative tools for furniture and interior design, creative tools for clothing and characters, and new social play experiences. Maxis describes the game as offering "a more direct way for friends to share creativity together."
Project Rene on SimGoodie
SimGoodie tracks Project Rene separately from The Sims 4 so that playtest updates, official news, and future coverage can be organized by game generation. As Maxis shares more through playtests, Behind The Sims episodes, and official announcements, this hub will grow with guides, media, and reference content.