Okay, I've said this before and apparently it bears repeating. Albeit with sufficient clarification.
Spirituality is fundamental to the human experience. The search for meaning, purpose and enlightenment-- even in a purely secular sense-- transcends the mundane, and in a very real sense defines the individual. The fact the we live in a world which is increasingly hostile and dismissive towards matters of a spiritual nature, does not alter the reality of the human experience.
That said, no offense to anyone, but the "fantasy" argument is something of a catchall cop-out in this context. No, the Sims is a simulation, comical though it may be. Thus, as regards religion, attempting to extract or exclude this element of humanity would be as ridiculous as doing the same with music, sexuality or even basic language. To insinuate that recognition of basic truths of the human condition is somehow non-progressive is like a lifeguard allowing a swimmer to drown because he doesn't want to touch the victim inappropriately. Backing up now so as not to broach issues of political propaganda. Suffice to say, we have somehow reached a point where "tolerance" somehow translates to "taboo". One where varied opinions are confused or equated with offensive material.
Again, I love this franchise. I feel it could be a unifying force across the extended human family worldwide. But to do so, it will need to embrace cultural identities in their entirety. And yes, by default that would include faith. Spirituality. And religion, even if nondenominational or atheistic. From a gameplay perspective, such would only enhance the experience, even if generic customizable templates of faith are used over real religions, and even if the player is given the option to shut off the functionality. That said, I find it rather interesting that users have never been able to disable or opt out of sexual identity or orientation, another cardinal aspect of individual personality. I mean, isn't that kinda "forcing" the issue of sexuality on a user who may identify as asexual..? Just saying.
We are the human race and we deserve more, EA. It is 2018 after all.
Shalom and namaste.
