Electronic Arts and Maxis have announced that The Sims 4 is getting a free base game update to introduce a Vitiligo skin feature, furthering the effort to deliver content that authentically and respectfully mirrors the diversity of its millions of players.
The skin feature can appear in Sims of all ages, with patterns showing different levels of coverage and symmetry. Players can choose patches for their Sim’s face, upper torso, lower torso, arms, and legs. In all, The Sims 4 artists have developed 61 Vitiligo variants across all ages for this first release.
The Sims 4 partnered with supermodel and beauty entrepreneur Winnie Harlow to introduce this new update. This includes original content like a Simified version of her Hollywood home and a playable, Winnie-inspired Sim.
“It’s magical to see The Sims 4 team introduce this new Vitiligo feature,” Winnie said. “As a child, I spent a lot of time playing The Sims and I think it’s so beautiful to be able to represent your true self in-game. This partnership is a powerful statement encouraging players to embrace what makes them unique – both in-game and in real life.”
The official announcement also provides a quick FAQ on the new feature:
- Can I choose the color of my Sim’s Vitiligo? Not quite. Although all patterns contrast greatly with your Sim’s skin, the exact color of the Vitiligo patches depends on the hue and tone of the skin color you choose.
- Can I change my Sim’s Vitiligo pattern? Or, can I add or remove it later? Yes, you can change, add, or remove any of the Vitiligo patterns by returning to Create-A-Sim and doing so in the Skin Details section.
- Can the shape of the Sim’s pattern change based on their body? Yes. Skin Details will adjust some depending on where you stretch or move their skin or body parts.
- Will it affect my Sim during gameplay? No. Like the Birthmarks feature, Vitiligo patterns will not have any effects on gameplay.
- Can it layer with other Skin Details? Vitiligo can layer with all Face and Body details except Birthmarks. You can also use Tattoos and Body Hair with them.
- Will it affect my Sim’s Body Hair color? No, at this time, vitiligo will only apply to skin.
