The Sims 4: Traits and Improved Genetics

In a recent blog post in The Sims website, The Sims 4 producer Ryan Vaughn talked more about what to expect with traits and genetics in Sim creation.

After recapping the features showcased in the last trailer, Vaughn noted how creating characters is "more than skin deep." The game introduces a new feature called Emotions. "Emotions affect everything your Sims do and how they react in various situations, which creates a new found synergy when combined with traits in The Sims 4. I’ve always loved the “Insane” trait, for example, and the effect of combining this trait with emotional states can lead to even wilder gameplay outcomes," he noted. 

One of the examples he gave was how a "Bro" trait could spark up a bromance with another Sim if it is combined with certain emotional states. This will certainly make Sims more interesting if left to their own devices. It will be interesting to see how this will change the Goth family now that we know they are returning. More details were also divulged on the walk styles. "The new styles help insinuate a level of confidence, humility or humor in your Sims starting in Create A Sim and carries forward to how they move in the game," he added.

Finally, he also touched upon how the genetics system greatly improved. "Now, right in Create A Sim, you are able to mash-up the looks of two Sims to preview what their child will look like. Better yet, you can then manipulate the look of the child if you aren’t satisfied with the results. You can also create family members based off of just one of your Sims’ genetics! Want to give one of your Sims a brother, done! Or provide them with a kid sister, check! The improved genetic functions are dynamic, open ended and really fun to play with," he said.

The Sims 4 is planned to be release sometime in the Q3/Q4 2014 for PC.