In a bid to enhance inclusivity within character creation, Maxis, the creators of The Sims 4, have introduced a significant update offering new skin details in Create-A-Sim. These additions include patches of depigmented skin representing vitiligo, an autoimmune condition affecting approximately 1% of the US population and 100 million individuals worldwide. This expansion, available as a complimentary update to the base game, reflects varying degrees of coverage and symmetry on the face, torso, and limbs across Sims of all ages.
To mark this milestone, Maxis has collaborated with Winnie Harlow, a renowned fashion model and vitiligo activist who has been outspoken about her experiences with the condition throughout her career. Interestingly, Harlow reveals her childhood fondness for The Sims, expressing delight in the game’s ability to authentically mirror one’s true self. She commends the introduction of the vitiligo feature as a magical inclusion.
Additionally, Harlow will share her personal interior design inspirations, offer a downloadable Sim inspired by herself, and provide a build inspired by her residence in Hollywood.
This update, as outlined in The Sims blog post, introduces 61 distinct vitiligo variants across all age groups, accessible within the “skin details” section of the character creator. This move towards greater representation has been welcomed by players, who have previously resorted to creating custom content to satisfy this demand.
Furthermore, this development aligns with Maxis’ ongoing commitment to inclusivity, forming part of the “sensationally you” season of content teased earlier. The collaboration with Harlow comes as a surprise to some, who had speculated about other character redesigns, but it underscores the game’s dedication to reflecting diverse realities.
Looking ahead, players can anticipate additional content releases, including a “sparkling” stuff pack, a “celebratory” build mode kit, and a “co-created style kit” in the coming months.
