I wouldn't rule it out that they will never be dethroned. EA is not exactly known for taking chances and doing anything revolutionary with sequels. They like to play it safe.
And the sims is also burdened by the expectations of all previous instalments.
Another series is not.
I don't think such a new series is currently in the works yet, the ones I have seen are not that impressive, don't seem to dare to take enough chances to set themselves apart.
I agree that being too realistic would not work. Depends a bit on where it goes.
For example if a game is 16+ that does not mean it can't contain supernatural stuff too. But possibly they could have it more focused. sims is all over the place with it.
Another game could instead dig deeper in a particular direction. Like focusing more on science fiction and having various aliens instead of just one.
Or digging deeper into magic, having that part of the base game and each expansion adding new spells.
Or digging more into the horror direction, which would pair super well with a higher age rating, so that they could actually be scary. No one could ever be scared of the goofy looking werewolves of Sims 4.
They could have deeper supernatural gameplay and new forms as well like being able to build your own frankenstein type monster just like building a robot, and trying to make it come alive.
Maybe even have a risk of a zombie apocalypse possible in the game, but also ways to stop it. Could only be started by your people if you make them do it, like mess around in a lab and letting the virus run rampant.
Or having super heroes as a possibility. Like imagine a similar series adding new superhero options in each instalment, abilities related to the expansion content. Have the whole hidden identity thing as a possibility too, like being able to have your superhero hide it even from their own spouse and children.
