EA cancels mobile Sims Project Lotus, shifts to PC sequel with Steam Deck support
EA has shelved its mobile-first multiplayer Sims project in favor of Project Evergreen, a PC-based sequel to The Sims 4 with planned Steam Deck optimization.
Summary
EA announced it is halting development on Project Lotus, formerly Project Rene, a mobile multiplayer Sims spin-off. The company is redirecting resources to Project Evergreen, reportedly a sequel to The Sims 4 positioned as a '2.0' evolution rather than a numbered fifth entry. The game is targeting a fall 2027 release on PC with optimization for portable handhelds including Steam Deck.
What changed in EA's Sims roadmap
- Project Rene, later renamed Project Lotus, was originally envisioned as the next major Sims title before being downscoped to a mobile spin-off
- EA is now prioritizing Project Evergreen, reportedly codenamed Project X internally
- Target platform shifted from mobile-first to PC primary with handheld optimization
- Development team had previously indicated half its resources were split between The Sims 4 live service and this 'next evolution'
- Internal deadline to go gold is reportedly September 2027
Why it matters
The Steam Deck optimization commitment signals EA's continued engagement with Linux-based gaming platforms through Proton compatibility, relevant to the handheld's growing user base.
Original reference: store.steampowered.com →