Since his return to Twitter, SimGuruGrant has been quite the social butterfly! With so many different tweets and topics, we’ve decided we will round up his tweets on a weekly basis so you can read everything in one place. See here for Part 1!
It's tough as we have so much secret info on the walls that we can't make public yet.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 21, 2018
Hi Saara – We have a lot of work to do here. It's been a focus of mine lately. I cannot speak to our plans right now, but rest assured you have been heard.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 19, 2018
Things take time and we don't always move fast enough. I appreciate your patience and recognize your frustration. That isn't enough, but it's what I can discuss right now.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 21, 2018
Just changing how we do things. It'll be more clear soon.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 21, 2018
It's something we're looking into.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 21, 2018
@SimGuruGrant any chance that someday your team will add Drug Addiction in a Sims friendly way to The Sims 4? Like in anyway possible?
— Pascal F. (@pascalio5) May 20, 2018
It is incredibly difficult for us to tackle such nuanced, difficult topics like this. There are so many angles to consider: cultural norms, addiction/death, how it affects families, law enforcement, political. https://t.co/oaaKnSIgbC
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 21, 2018
Everything we do often takes a very long time, so we think far out. Stuff changes along the way, of course. But, we do think as far ahead as we can. Sometimes just as an exercise to ponder "what if" scenarios. https://t.co/VZef7aKldM
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 21, 2018
Sadly I need to quote my boss here and note that we currently have no plans to do so.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 21, 2018
Right now neither of these are priorities. The newspaper…maybe? But I think it's safe to say we'll never make a landline? But, who knows.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 21, 2018
I just checked and we translate to 18 languages. It isn't outsourced, but based in our Madrid translation studio. https://t.co/zXTShImyv0
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 21, 2018
Why does the landline has a low chance of being created? There are a TON of houses that use landlines today and another ton requesting home phones. It'll fit for elders as well as newspapers. Maybe an elder focused pack featuring those 2 features? That'd be interesting.
— ٍşĶį̐єş r̶̲̥̅ gяєу (@GreySkylarGrey) May 21, 2018
It's not that it doesn't add value, but more that we think other things will add more value for the community. https://t.co/RuGGT4EC4r
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 21, 2018
There has been an idea circulating on my mind. Why not make cell phones optional? They are tad annoying, and IRL not everybody has them. Making them optional like it was in TS2 is best IMO and will make the game more realistic. @SimGuruGrant
— ٍşĶį̐єş r̶̲̥̅ gяєу (@GreySkylarGrey) May 21, 2018
Noted 🙂 https://t.co/qRYKlmbHfx
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 21, 2018
That's not why we don't have burglars…Did somebody say that?
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 21, 2018
Right now it's been an issue of prioritizing them above other things, finding the right fit, things like that. We've also improved technology over time to make them more viable. Tech we didn't have at launch.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 21, 2018
Yeah, there was a rumour going around last year that someone within EA (but not someone at Maxis) had information that burglars aren't coming to the game because they're too triggering for this generation of players
— Julian/Iron Seagull (@Iron_Cgull) May 21, 2018
That is 100% false. While I think it is good and proper for us to consider situations that might trigger folks – seriously, I do – this isn't why burglars don't currently exist. Furthermore, we would never implement them in a way that would do so, I hope. https://t.co/Jsxj3BO3Hw
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 21, 2018
I said this the other day. I don't know why this rumor exists, but let me repeat again: This is not why burglars aren't in the game. It has nothing to do with this.
Burglars aren't in the game because we haven't made them yet. That's it. That's the reason. https://t.co/9Tma5upW1z
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 23, 2018
We've been talking about fear for a long time. Our hesitation is to add a narrow emotion that doesn't affect the game often. https://t.co/QeLRbK08tT
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 21, 2018
We basically have to add emotions to the entire game, so many interactions. They're absurdly expensive and in hindsight they weren't as fully considered as we would have liked.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 21, 2018
Open neighborhoods as you envision them is probably off the table for TS4.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 21, 2018
Not in the way you all imagine it. We'd more or less have to start over. But, you never know. Something weird might occur.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 22, 2018
As for corner sofas – I don't know! It hasn't come up. But it seems like it should, eh? https://t.co/2lua8REWpx
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 21, 2018
Why can’t pets die any other way if humans can die pets should be able to and also all life stages , yes it’s sad but it adds to the realism of the game it’s a life simulator and in life everything dies and yea
— simslover1134 (@simslover1134) May 21, 2018
I can't really explain it. Sometimes it just feels gross or sad in a way. https://t.co/0LzbrpTPkR
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 21, 2018
A different but similar point, but is this a reason that funerals aren't a thing in The Sims?
— C A R 👁🗨 L I N A (@redrumprince) May 21, 2018
Uh, honestly, just haven't done them yet? We could! Would be neat I think. https://t.co/XnWBO0m03D
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 21, 2018
I'm not sure how to define it as I think it differs per person, and I'm blessed to not be affected by mental health issues. It's quick for many folks to dismiss triggering, and my belief is that if someone is having an issue, we should trust and respect that.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 21, 2018
I'm confused. Many of us worked on Sims 3. And Sims 2…and some Sims 1.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 22, 2018
@SimGuruGrant is it posible the return of the floating head in the interface for the sims 4 ?
— 🙂 (@123Asi12) May 22, 2018
It's possible. It's not a priority at this time, though. https://t.co/sDU4HMmzfu
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 22, 2018
Yeah. It's something we desperately want to improve.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 22, 2018
@SimGuruGrant good morning! 🙌
I'd like to know, is there any chance that something like system of Attraction and Chemistry from TS2 will appear in the game? Please, tell us it's possible!— SimsMix (@sims_mix) May 22, 2018
It is possible. We discuss things like this and Favorites, which I think is another, um, favorite of you guys? https://t.co/cUiGfRU1Yf
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 22, 2018
We have actually conducted many a survey good sir. I could tell you what the community actually thinks, but then I'd have to lock you away.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 22, 2018
It is on our list of things to consider.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 22, 2018
The Sims is only developed in Northern California, excepting The Sims Free Play, which is in Australia. https://t.co/EQeKsZLapU
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 22, 2018
I really, really, really want an online dating feature.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 22, 2018
Supes possible.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 22, 2018
I'd love to extend the relationship options in CAS at some point.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 23, 2018
It's something we've discussed.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 23, 2018
I'm a huge fan of the mod community and the freedom they have. There are a lot of considerations for us, like a wide range of hardware specifications, reaching a broad audience, and making sure features are compatible that sometimes slow us down in comparison.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 23, 2018
@SimGuruGrant Is there any specific reason on why there are no basset hounds in cats&dogs?
— RayneBowSimmer (@RayneBowSimmer) May 22, 2018
Shortness of legs and length of spine. https://t.co/BCTUV5t1HY
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 23, 2018
At this time we are not planning a color wheel for Build or CAS for The Sims 4.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 23, 2018
I cannot really get into it, but it's one of the few things we more or less cannot actually do.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 24, 2018
It's fair for you to be upset. Sometimes decisions are made for the right reasons, or wrong ones, that don't come out the way everyone intended. Some decisions are harder to reverse.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 24, 2018
For City Living we really tried to approach different cultures, and were inspired specifically by Tokyo, Morocco, and India for clothing, food, and people. Cities that inspired us were SF, Vancouver, Tokyo, and Shanghai. https://t.co/FeIn7NR89x
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 23, 2018
Here is how I'm using these polls: Some of these are things we have considered. Some are not. We're trying to think long term. We're trying to see if you do/don't like the things we are considering, and if you do/don't like things we aren't considering. Just research.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 23, 2018
Let's try a new poll. Let's say in the future, years out, we do a more whacky expansion. Which would you be MOST interested in? And yes, we know you want things like Seasons and stuff first. Don't worry! Now 2 days long!
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 23, 2018
Travel in Time again? We have the chance for something new, but people want travel in time theme again. Oh God 😑
Sims in space looks soo cool
— Weslley Luzzi (@MaisUmLuzzi) May 23, 2018
This is one of the key challenges working on an 18+ year game. People want what they've always had. People want new stuff. And people want a third option…which is something I don't know. It's tough. We try to balance as best we can. https://t.co/61oLKN8MIc
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 23, 2018
Back in time can mean the 1930s. It can mean cave people. Space can mean life on mars. Or in a Deep Space Nine style station. End of the World can mean global warming or zombies. None of this is locked in. You guys should vote, but also, discuss your ideas and why.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 23, 2018
Has been discussed. It's one I really want to make.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 23, 2018
so number of expansion packs will tell us when the end is near!!!! pic.twitter.com/vzaKl9pYzI
— Ziistel🌤 (@ziistel) May 23, 2018
No. Assume nothing. https://t.co/sjVOP1Z8n3
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 23, 2018
It may not seem like it, especially as things take so long, but we are constantly examining surveys and research, referencing the forums and customer service issues, talking to game changers at events. You guys affect a lot of what we do. https://t.co/CilW8ALLvF
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 23, 2018
It isn't out of the question, but it's a conversation we need to have to figure out.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 23, 2018
It's something I'd love for us to figure out how to make.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 23, 2018
I'm going to follow you. Can you send me a DM? I'd like to discuss how we can get wheelchairs in game. Is that okay?
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 23, 2018
Small thing: So thankful @xoTaeLuna tweeted to me today to advocate for getting wheelchair bound Sims in the game. She just shared the most brilliant idea with me. So thankful for you advocating for your stories and experiences.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 23, 2018
I learned so much in my small role there. So thankful for those who shared their experience.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 23, 2018
We would need to do a lot of new animations, and then some clever solutions (like one from Tae!) that could help us solve some things. The reality is the game wasn't built for it to start, so like in real life, we need to adjust!
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 23, 2018
My grandparents had a horse growing up on their ranch. I HATED IT. Such a jerk. Then later I worked in a vet clinic with jerk horses. Me and horses DO NOT GET ALONG. But, yes, we know you guys love horses. Thanks for the passion. https://t.co/ytjayuHrl0
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 23, 2018
@SimGuruGrant @TheSims How come The Sims Freeplay has ceiling fans but The Sims 4 doesn’t?🤔#TheSims#Summer#Hot#CeilingFans
— Chris Grimwood (@TheRainbowWild) May 24, 2018
It's a different game on a different engine made by a different team in a different country…so there will be differences. BUT. It's something we know you guys want. https://t.co/97qE15u0GC
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 24, 2018
Harry: I've followed you. Can you DM me and tell me what YOU'd expect to see/experience with a Deaf Sim? I'd love to know what it should be like and how it should work.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 24, 2018
Spooky Stuff for us was more about creating a costume party or providing outfits for movie makers than making a terrifying pack. Vampires was going more for the "dark" vibe. https://t.co/K5x9kgQMqM
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 24, 2018
Just talked to @SimGuruGrant about including Similish Sign Language and having deaf, hard of hearing, wearing cochlear implants or hearing aids in The Sims, I’m actually really excited to see this happen in the future! This would be so cool 🙂 #TheSims #TheSims4
— Harry ✨ (@sparklingpxlsYT) May 24, 2018
I'm writing a document based on our conversation right now. Thank you Harry. 😀 https://t.co/LtPC1hBujW
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 24, 2018
When we implemented the ability to define your gender, we spoke to transgender people first, then GLAAD, to try to get it right. I'm glad we did. It just requires a lot of questions, listening, learning.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 24, 2018
SimsFan, I'm not here baiting people. I'm asking because it's possible.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 24, 2018
We've been providing free updates since after the game launched, starting with ghosts in Oct 2014. It's fundamental to how we approach TS4. We want you guys to stick with us and keep playing our game. https://t.co/kZPb49uF4v
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 24, 2018
It's more about having a discussion, incorporating your feedback sooner, working with you to validate or change our plans, and ensuring that you are happier with the games we make. https://t.co/nvPWiBPeKB
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 24, 2018
Soccer is the world's #1 sport, so adding some form of it would be good at some point. I can't say when.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 24, 2018
More and more, we're working to be more open with the community. There are actually laws that prevent us from talking about stuff too soon. I am totally not joking! Accountants *shakes fist at sky* But, this is a HUGE priority for me. https://t.co/fQsCFnEAi4
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 26, 2018
We haven't done the lounge chair yet. We know it's on your list of things to make. 🙂 https://t.co/lrbf6hPyhY
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 26, 2018
Uh…we are not currently making Werewolves in any way.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 26, 2018
We have not added additional functionality to elevators. In talking to some wheelchair bound simmers the other day, it struck me that, if we can do an update for Sims in wheelchairs, enhancing elevators there makes so much sense. https://t.co/FQyunPOmoZ
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 26, 2018
It actually isn't an NDA thing, though I am bound by an NDA…I think. *checks employment agreement* There are things in regards to when we announce stuff, when we can "recognize revenue," and so forth. It's actually something EA overall is trying to adjust! https://t.co/HeshQ0yH4O
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 26, 2018
Actual federal US Government laws. I'm not joking.
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 26, 2018
One day we'd like to do more for elders. But, we'll most likely improve the other age groups further first. I first typed first as furst and almost left it because it made me smile. https://t.co/dmx3MfW36m
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 26, 2018
Stair lifts would be great for wheelchair-bound Sims, though I can see why that would be difficult.
— Let's Go! Samurott (@onesketchyboi) May 26, 2018
So, my current thinking:
1. Elevators
2. "magical" stairs become ramps, in case you visit a home that doesn't have them. https://t.co/OJxbwKhFVc— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 26, 2018
But lotto was in TS3. Have the rules changed since Into The Future?
— Josh Middleton (@MiddletonPlays) May 26, 2018
Not saying it can't happen! But, this stuff changes all the time. https://t.co/o9TUzGB6pL
— Grant Rodiek (@SimGuruGrant) May 26, 2018
