The Sims franchise is celebrating its 25th anniversary this week, marking a significant milestone in the world of gaming. But as we raise a toast to this iconic series, do you know how many full-fledged Sims games exist beyond the expansions and DLCs? If your guess was “four,” brace yourself for a bit of a surprise.
To commemorate this landmark anniversary, I’ve curated a list of the top 25 Sims games that have graced us over the years. Trust me, narrowing it down involved some tough choices, including cutting certain spin-offs and combining a few remake versions just to keep our list at a manageable number.
25. The Sims 2 Apartment Pets
Platform(s): Nintendo DS
Released: 2008
This game was a late addition to The Sims 2 era, designed specifically for the Nintendo DS. It attempted to blend elements from some of The Sims 2’s fan-favorite expansions. While it may not have achieved iconic status, it offered unique pet-focused minigames and a charming storyline that was worth a look.
24. MySims Sky Heroes
Platforms: Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Nintendo DS
Released: 2010
The final installment in the MySims sub-series, Sky Heroes didn’t quite hit the high notes of its predecessors. Nevertheless, it stood out for being the sole Sims game where you could pilot a plane. Its storyline even touched on the dystopian themes subtly woven throughout The Sims universe, making it unique among its peers.
23. The Sims Pet Stories
Platform(s): PC, Mac
Released: 2007
Nestled in the Sims Stories trilogy, Pet Stories aimed to deliver the charm of The Sims 2 to those with less powerful PCs. Featuring scripted storylines, one of which involves a relative’s surprise generosity, the game offers a light-hearted journey into pet customization without complicating matters too much.
22. The Sims 2 Pets
Platform(s): PlayStation 2, Nintendo GameCube, Nintendo Wii, PlayStation Portable, Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS
Released: 2006-2007
This expansion pack was notable for its widespread standalone console adaptations, which drew heavy inspiration from Nintendogs. Focusing almost entirely on the pets, it offered a rich experience in satisfying these furry characters’ needs, almost overshadowing their human companions.
21. The Sims Social
Platform(s): Facebook
Released: 2011 (closed in 2013)
While The Sims Social is no longer playable, its presence in the gaming conservation effort makes it noteworthy. It attempted to ride the wave of social media gaming back then but ended up missing the peak. Nonetheless, it left a lasting impression, notably achieving a Lady Gaga collaboration.
20. MySims
Platforms: Nintendo Wii, Nintendo DS, PC, Nintendo Switch
Released: 2007-2008 (remastered in 2024)
During its time, MySims was EA’s answer to Animal Crossing, and it did a decent job. Despite being fairly formulaic, the game’s endearing style spawned several sequels and received a remaster, proving its lasting charm.
19. The Sims Online
Platform(s): PC
Released: 2002 (shut down in 2008)
A spin-off of the original, The Sims Online offered a chaotic social space with Second Life vibes. Known for its wild community antics, it had a dedicated niche audience. Although official versions are gone, fan recreations have emerged, keeping its spirit alive.
18. The Urbz: Sims in the City (console)
Platform(s): PlayStation 2, Xbox, GameCube
Released: 2004
The Urbz brought The Sims to the vibrant cityscape, featuring the gig economy and lavish lifestyles. It predicted modern trends while promising glitz and glamor. While the console version was outshined by its handheld counterpart, its Black Eyed Peas cameo remains memorable.
17. The Sims Life Stories
Platform(s): Windows, Mac
Released: 2007
This entry into the Sims Stories franchise capitalized on storytelling without additional gimmicks. Embraced by fans as a soap opera generator, it presented intriguing tales from start to finish, each as quirky as the next.
16. The Sims Mobile
Platforms: iOS, Android
Released: 2018
Although it saw its last update in 2024, The Sims Mobile thrives with reruns of previous events, keeping mobile Simmers entertained. Its focus on character-driven quests suits fans of The Sims 4, encouraging social interaction within a vibrant community.
15. The Sims Castaway Stories
Platform(s): PC, Mac
Released: 2008
Wrapping up the Sims Stories trilogy, Castaway Stories leaned toward narrative-driven adventures, inspired by shows like Lost. Set on a lively island, it focused on integration within a community, offering Sims a break from career-focused gameplay.
14. The Sims 2 (console)
Platform(s): PlayStation 2, Xbox, Nintendo GameCube
Released: 2005
Though the console version of The Sims 2 wasn’t as acclaimed as its PC counterpart, it offered players unique household dynamics and an opportunity to create dramatic relationship stories, despite limited generational gameplay.
13. The Sims Freeplay
Platforms: iOS, Android
Released: 2011
Dominating the mobile Sims realm, The Sims Freeplay incorporates elements from The Sims 3 and city-building experiences. Encouraging the growth of multiple households, it offers a relaxed yet challenging gameplay loop that has kept it thriving for over a decade.
12. MySims Kingdom
Platforms: Nintendo Wii, Nintendo DS, Nintendo Switch, PC
Released: 2008 (remastered in 2024)
The first sequel to MySims broke away from its predecessor’s style, drawing upon RPG elements to create an engaging quest-driven adventure. Players revitalize a fantasy kingdom, catering to diverse characters, from cowboys to astronauts.
11. The Sims 2 Castaway
Platforms: Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 2, PlayStation Portable, Nintendo DS
Released: 2007
This game offers a survival spin, tasking players with crafting necessities on a deserted island. It hints at its inspiration for future titles like Animal Crossing: New Horizons, driven by its exploration and adventure elements.
10. The Sims: Console Edition
Platform(s): PlayStation 2, Xbox, Nintendo GameCube
Released: 2003
Opting not to replicate the PC game directly, The Sims: Console Edition stood as an independent entry, introducing iconic characters and storylines. Although overshadowed by its sequel, it remains an intriguing piece of Sims history.
9. The Urbz: Sims in the City (handheld)
Platform(s): GameBoy Advance, Nintendo DS
Released: 2004
Separated from the console version, the handheld Urbz focused on a gripping story, involving crime and mysterious encounters. This title captured the imaginations of many, making it a beloved handheld experience.
8. The Sims: Bustin’ Out
Platforms: PlayStation 2, Xbox, GameCube, Game Boy Advance, N-Gage
Released: 2003-2004
Bustin’ Out expanded on its predecessor’s format, allowing players to engage in diverse activities across various locations. With its focus on accumulating wealth and influence, it provided hours of engaging gameplay.
7. The Sims 2 (handheld)
Platforms: PlayStation Portable, Nintendo DS, Game Boy Advance
Released: 2005
Despite the shared title, these versions offered unique experiences focused on storytelling and social interaction. Each version contributed distinct narratives and intrigues based in the iconic Strangetown.
6. MySims Agents
Platforms: Nintendo Wii, Nintendo DS
Released: 2009
Often overlooked due to its youthful design, MySims Agents delivers an exceptional adventure game experience, weaving intriguing plots comparable to cult classics like The X-Files. Its charm and humor make it a standout title.
5. The Sims Medieval
Platforms: PC, Mac, iOS
Released: 2010-2011
Bringing a historical twist, The Sims Medieval ventured into RPG territory, merging storytelling with a captivating medieval backdrop. Despite its abrupt end, it remains a unique offering in the Sims collection.
4. The Sims 3
Platforms: PC, Mac, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Nintendo Wii, Nintendo DS, Nintendo 3DS, N-Gage 2.0, iOS, Android
Released: 2009-2014
Renowned for its open world, The Sims 3 embraced ambition, setting new standards for life simulation games. Though its expansive nature occasionally proved challenging, its groundbreaking approach paved the way for future innovations.
3. The Sims 4
Platforms: PC, Mac, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Released: 2014-present
The latest installment has faced its share of critique yet offers a contemporary Simming experience with evolving content. From improved customization options to inclusive features, it represents progress and accessibility, redefining the series for modern players.
2. The Sims
Platforms: PC, Mac, Linux
Released: 2000-2003
Fondly remembered, the original The Sims was a formative experience for many. Its unforgiving nature was wrapped in charm, crafting a management sim that captured imaginations and laid the groundwork for the franchise’s enduring popularity.
1. The Sims 2
Platforms: PC, Mac, Java
Released: 2004-2008
A perfect blend of elements, The Sims 2 remains a fan favorite. Its engaging gameplay, rich storytelling, and balance between humor and challenge defined it as the pinnacle of life simulation, solidifying its legendary status within the franchise.
