If you're eagerly awaiting The Sims 5, prepare for a sneak peek! A new Sims game, The Sims Labs: Town Stories, is currently in playtesting, and available now in Australia. While not the full Sims 5 experience, it offers a taste of what's to come.

This new mobile simulation game is part of EA's broader Sims Labs project, a "learning lab" designed to test new gameplay mechanics and features for the franchise. You won't find it readily available on the Google Play Store just yet; you'll need to sign up for The Sims Labs via EA's official website to participate. Currently, access is limited to Australian players.

What's Happening in The Sims Labs: Town Stories?

The game's initial reception has been mixed, with some online criticism focusing on the graphics and concerns about potential microtransactions.

Gameplay blends classic Sims elements—building and managing a neighbourhood, guiding residents through their lives, advancing careers, and uncovering neighborhood secrets within the town of Plumbrook.

Early footage suggests a familiar feel, aligning with the game's purpose as a testing ground for future Sims titles. EA is likely experimenting with concepts that may evolve significantly during further development.

Interested? Check out the Google Play Store listing and give it a try if you're in Australia! Stay tuned for our next article covering Shop Titans' Halloween event and its spooky rewards.