You can be polyamorous in 'The Sims' now

'The Sims 4' Lovestruck Expansion Pack allows for multiple romantic relationships.
By Anna Iovine  on 
one sim romantically feeding a strawberry to another
'The Sims 4' Lovestruck Expansion Pack lets you set romantic boundaries. Credit: The Sims 4

Non-monogamy certainly existed before 2020, but since then we've been hearing a lot more about it online. People emerged from lockdown more sexually adventurous — maybe even more queer — and now they want their Sims to be, too. In The Sims 4 Lovestruck Expansion Pack, launching July 25, your Sims can finally be polyamorous.

In Ciudad Enamorada, the new Sims city of love, Sims can go on dates in locations such as a park or a nightclub, according to the blog on the Lovestruck Expansion Pack. There's a singles hangout and even a dating app, Cupid's Corner, for Sims to find potential matches.

As for gameplay, your Sims will grow and develop their Romantic Skill as they go on more dates. Sims can have turn ons and offs, and you can measure their satisfaction with their relationships. The pack has new interactions, too: a new kiss, dance, and three new WooHoo spots.

Mashable After Dark
Want more sex and dating stories in your inbox?
Sign up for Mashable's new weekly After Dark newsletter.
By signing up you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up!

There will be several different Romance Dynamics between Sims as well: Wholesome (two Sims falling in love); Steamy (focus on physical connection); Strained (still romantically involved but unhappy); and Unpredictable (going back and forth between fighting and making up). You can explore your Sims' different romantic aspirations, and they can even become a Romance Consultant and help others find love.

The Sims introduces two new traits with this pack: being reserved and a "lovebug" (much less reserved). There are also two new fears, fear of intimacy and of being alone. Just like real life!

In terms of non-monogamy, Sims will have a "Romantic Boundaries" system that's free to all players. You can customize your Sims' boundaries and approach to romantic exclusivity and jealousy. The blog post reads, "This allows for Sims to date multiple Sims without impact to other relationships." WooHoo!

The Sims has otherwise expanded Sims' gender and sexuality options in recent years. In 2022, The Sims updated its spectrum of sexual orientations, and in 2023 added top scars, binders, and other gender-affirming clothing. This latest expansion pack launches July 25.

Topics Gaming

anna iovine, a white woman with curly chin-length brown hair, smiles at the camera
Anna Iovine
Associate Editor, Features

Anna Iovine is associate editor of features at Mashable. Previously, as the sex and relationships reporter, she covered topics ranging from dating apps to pelvic pain. Before Mashable, Anna was a social editor at VICE and freelanced for publications such as Slate and the Columbia Journalism Review. Follow her on X @annaroseiovine.


Recommended For You
Men found a surprising new way to lie on dating apps
A diverse group of six people is gathered around a table, engaged in a serious discussion or planning session. The table is covered with maps, papers, and coffee cups. The background is shaded in red, giving a sense of urgency or intensity. The individuals vary in attire, from casual to formal, and display focused and contemplative expressions.


Is it ever OK to 'hookup' over LinkedIn, Strava, and other non-dating apps?
woman sitting on laptop with heart bubbles and roses around her

The 10 best dating apps for men who know what they want
By Leah Stodart
illustration of man looking at dating app screens

HP OmniBook X review: This Copilot+ PC has MacBook-destroying battery life
HP OmniBook X on a table

More in Life

Samsung Galaxy deals are plentiful ahead of Prime Day
woman using S Pen with Samsung Galaxy Tab S9

Microsoft made an AI voice so real, it's too dangerous to release
Microsoft logo on building

Apple issues yet another 'spyware' iPhone warning to users in nearly 100 countries
iPhone 15


Trending on Mashable
NYT Connections today: See hints and answers for July 11
A phone displaying the New York Times game 'Connections.'

'Wordle' today: Here's the answer hints for July 11
a phone displaying Wordle


NYT's The Mini crossword answers for July 11
Closeup view of crossword puzzle clues

Webb telescope may have just revealed an alien world with air
A super-Earth orbiting a red dwarf star
The biggest stories of the day delivered to your inbox.
This newsletter may contain advertising, deals, or affiliate links. Subscribing to a newsletter indicates your consent to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe from the newsletters at any time.
Thanks for signing up. See you at your inbox!