EA and Maxis are spotlighting the heart of West African creativity in the latest The Sims 4 update — and it’s free for all players. The new content adds beautifully designed Build/Buy and Create-a-Sim items that bring authentic West African art, fashion, and flavor to your virtual neighborhoods.
A Collaboration Rooted in Heritage
This update was developed in partnership with the Pan African Gaming Group (PAGG) and a team of Simmers connected to West African countries and the wider Black diaspora. Notably, Ghana’s own Leti Arts, one of Africa’s pioneering game studios, played a key role in planning and shaping this cultural release.Together, they ensured every detail from colors to materials reflects the region’s traditions and artistry.
“The collaboration has been seamless and deeply fulfilling, allowing us to help shape content that honors the beauty and complexity of West African culture,” said Maame Adjei and Kasyoka Mwanzia of PAGG.
Build with Meaning and Style
Bring warmth and storytelling into your Sims’ spaces with décor inspired by the artisans of West Africa. Each piece combines neutral tones with bold patterns, blending modern design and traditional craft.
Featured Build/Buy Items:
- Okuta Lamp with Woven Shade – “Okuta” means stone in Yoruba, a perfect name for this lamp’s sturdy base and woven texture.
- Ìtura Cushion – “Ìtura” means comfort, and these colorful cushions bring a sense of peace and beauty to any home.
- Visions of Home Decorative Art – A series of vibrant framed pieces capturing scenes inspired by West Africa.
- Wallu Woven Basket – Handcrafted inspiration from Senegal’s Wolof people. “Wallu” means to help out, reflecting both culture and function.
- Hiwe Area Rug – “Hiwe” means to support in Igbo, a rug that ties rooms together with earthy, woven charm.
- West African Aloe Plant – A tall, vibrant succulent with sharp leaves and fiery blooms, echoing the region’s landscapes.
Taste of Home: Jollof and More
The update also brings West African cuisine to your Sims’ kitchen. Players can now cook Jollof Rice with Chicken Drumsticks the iconic one-pot dish that unites countries like Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal. It’s flavorful, festive, and perfect for gatherings. The Real Question however is “IS IT GHANA JOLLOF OR NIGERIAN JOLLOF?”
For décor lovers, the new Trio of Flavor piece features key regional ingredients — Bambara beans, Guinea cubeb, and grains of paradise — each known for adding unique aroma and spice to African cooking.
Fashion with a Story
Fashion takes center stage in Create-a-Sim, with clothing that captures the spirit of West Africa. The collection features:
- A bold, patterned jumpsuit
- Vibrant shirts and wrap dresses
- Playful prints for toddlers and kids
- Accessories like earrings and traditional head wraps
Each design tells a story a mix of heritage patterns and modern color palettes that express individuality and pride. Whether it’s a family in matching outfits or a Sim rocking their own bold look, the collection brings true cultural flair to the game.
Celebrating Culture Through Gameplay
This update is more than just new content — it’s a love letter to West Africa’s creativity, tradition, and influence. EA says it marks another step toward expanding representation in The Sims 4, helping players tell stories that reflect their real lives and communities.
The West African Build, Buy, and Create-a-Sim Update is available now as a free download for PC, Mac, PlayStation, and Xbox.
Watch the trailer
