The Sims has been one of the most popular gaming franchises in gaming history, leaving its mark on gaming culture. The series has reached its 25th anniversary and to celebrate this event ACMI and EA are teaming up to present a Y2K-inspired pop-up event that takes you back to the early days of The Sims. The event runs from 21-23 February at the ACMI building with the following highlights:
- A Y2K-era bedroom installation styled by local creatives, viral design duo, and die-hard Sims fans, Josh & Matt Design. Think blow-up couches, CD towers, fuzzy rugs, and plenty of Sims-inspired details.
- A specialist panel on 22 February, with ACMI curator and games journalist Jini Maxwell, Josh & Matt Design and some of the team from EA exploring the legacy of The Sims as a cultural phenomenon and it’s huge impact over the past 25 years.
- Free gameplay stations featuring The Sims: Birthday Bundle, which will include a re-release of the original game.
- Live-streamed broadcasts from ACMI, featuring beloved Sims creators.
Each highlight will guide you through the most memorable points of The Sims’ history and show you the thought process behind each iteration. You can ask questions, see amazing creations, and meet other Sims players to share your enthusiasm. ACMI curator Jimi Maxwell shared their excitement about the event:
“As Australia’s home of videogames, ACMI is so chuffed to be celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Sims! For 25 years, The Sims has provided a platform for so many kinds of imaginative play for multiple generations, allowing them to achieve great feats of digital architecture, guide their Sims to dizzying success – or cruelly remove their pool ladders. With each new expansion and sequel, The Sims has expanded its complex social world, reflecting changes to real-life society, and facilitating even more forms of self-expression in its passionate player base. As a long-term Sims player myself, I’m so thrilled to celebrate the game’s cultural legacy and personal significance in this event and free talk hosted by ACMI.“
If you are in Melbourne during 21-23 February, come down to Federation Square to check out this event and appreciate The Sims in a new light.
About the Author
Victor Tan
He/Him
Victor spends his time trying to help players out of tricky situations and give them the guidance they need to succeed. Outside of the video game world, you can find him training at the gym or doing simple improv activities.
