20 hours ago

A proposal to develop the user‑generated content platform for The Sims

Dear developers,

I’m reaching out with a number of proposals for developing the user‑generated content platform in *The Sims* series — including in light of the upcoming release of the new instalment.

As community member Hobot has already pointed out, offering both paid and free content from creators would be a particularly valuable feature for console players. I fully support this idea: such an approach would not only boost engagement among the console audience, but also give creators a chance to showcase their work and let players access more diverse content at no extra cost.

I believe you plan to partially fund the release of updates and remakes using revenue generated through the in‑game online store. In this case, it would be logical to test this model in *The Sims 4* first — this would allow you to fine‑tune the mechanism and then seamlessly integrate it into the new instalment.

Moreover, such a system would make it possible to build a database of *The Sims* creators. In the future, this would simplify the search for potential collaboration partners and create a mutually beneficial solution for all parties involved.

To further promote fair collaboration with creators, I propose revising the revenue‑sharing model in their favour. The optimal approach would be:

* At the initial stage, set the split at 30 % for EA and 70 % for creators;
* Later on, as the store grows in popularity and content volume, the ratio could be adjusted accordingly.

Additionally, I suggest:

1. Adding user‑created modifications (mods) to the store catalogue — this would expand customisation options and boost community engagement.
2. Developing a banner advertising system with smart promotion algorithms. Such a system could:
   * highlight new creators;
   * promote fresh works by established authors;
   * recommend content based on player preferences.

I believe these measures would help:
* build a fairer and more motivating ecosystem for creators;
* strengthen player community loyalty;
* improve the variety and quality of user‑generated content.

Thank you for considering my suggestions. I’d be happy to discuss them in more detail and share additional ideas.

Subject: The need to implement an auto‑update system for downloaded content in *The Sims*

I propose implementing an automatic update system for previously downloaded user‑generated content (mods, add‑ons, etc.) in *The Sims*.

How it should work:

1. A creator uploads an updated version of a mod or add‑on to the platform.
2. A player logs into the game or accesses the in‑game user content platform.
3. The system automatically checks for updates to previously downloaded items.
4. If a new version is available, the content is automatically updated without player intervention — either in the background or with a subtle notification that an update is ready.

Benefits of implementation:

* For players:
    * no need to manually track mod and add‑on updates;
    * eliminates the risk of errors due to using outdated versions;
    * improves game stability (updates often include bug fixes).
* For creators:
    * users get the latest content versions faster;
    * reduces negative feedback due to issues already fixed in newer versions;
    * simplifies support — creators can quickly distribute fixes.
* For the platform:
    * enhances overall stability and quality of the user experience;
    * increases community trust and loyalty towards the platform.

Implementing such a system would make interacting with user‑generated content more convenient and reliable for all members of the ecosystem.