Electronic Arts’ decision to go private in a $55 billion deal backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) has triggered concern among fans of The Sims, one of the company’s most successful franchises.
Announced on September 29 2025, the deal involves investors including Silver Lake, Affinity Partners, and Saudi Arabia’s PIF, which already holds stakes in companies such as Uber and Newcastle United. The move marks EA’s exit from the public market after thirty-five years.
While the acquisition is part of a broader strategy to strengthen ties with Western entertainment and technology assets, The Sims community has reacted strongly.
Fans have raised concerns about how the franchise’s inclusive content could be affected, given Saudi Arabia’s conservative stance on social issues. The Sims has long featured same-sex relationships, gender-neutral pronouns, and Pride-themed updates.
When earlier titles were distributed in Saudi Arabia, box art depicting female Sims was reportedly altered, further fuelling community worries.
Popular content creator Kayla Sims, known as lilsimsie, commented, “This news feels devastating to me, and I know that a lot of you feel the same way.”
The announcement coincided with the release of The Sims 4: Adventure Awaits expansion pack on October 2.
Initial excitement around the new content quickly gave way to discussions of boycotts, with players expressing unease about supporting EA under new ownership.
Although the deal will not be finalised until 2027, fans fear potential changes to the franchise’s creative direction.
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