Electronic Arts announced that The Sims Mobile will permanently shut down on January 20, 2026, after seven years and over 50 updates. The free-to-play mobile spin-off, which launched in 2018 and generated $25 million in its first six months, will become completely unplayable once servers close. With no offline mode available, this marks the definitive end for a game that captivated millions of mobile gamers worldwide.
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EA Shutting Down The Sims Mobile
The final update went live on October 20, 2025, removing all microtransactions and granting unlimited energy to players. The game was delisted from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store on October 21 at 1:30 PM UTC, meaning new downloads are no longer possible. However, players who previously installed the game can continue playing and re-download it from their app library until the January shutdown date.
| Sims Mobile Shutdown Timeline | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Update | October 20, 2025 |
| Store Delisting | October 21, 2025 (1:30 PM UTC) |
| Server Shutdown | January 20, 2026 (1:59 PM UTC) |
| Microtransactions Disabled | October 20, 2025 |
| All Content Unlocked | January 6, 2026 |
| Launch Year | 2018 |
| Total Updates | 50+ |
What Players Get Before Shutdown
EA implemented several farewell features to give players a proper send-off. The October 20 update provided unlimited energy, making it easier to complete projects without waiting. On January 6, 2026, all Build Mode and Create A Sim items will unlock for free, allowing players to experience everything the game offers during its final two weeks. Events will continue running normally until shutdown, enabling players to earn Simoleons and items throughout this period.
Despite these gestures, EA confirmed that leftover in-game currency will not be eligible for refunds after the servers close. Any purchases made before October 20 remain functional until January 20, but once that date arrives, the game becomes permanently unplayable with all saved data lost.
Community Backlash and Industry Context
The announcement sparked significant backlash from longtime players who invested years and money into the game. Many fans expressed frustration on Reddit and Twitter, feeling betrayed that EA continued accepting payments while the game operated in “zombie mode” after announcing no new content updates in 2024. Players are particularly upset about the lack of an offline mode that could preserve their creations and progress.
The shutdown comes shortly after EA’s $55 billion buyout by an investor consortium including Saudi Arabia, leading to speculation about cost-cutting measures and resource reallocation. Industry observers note that EA is likely redirecting resources toward Project Rene, the next-generation Sims title slated for cross-platform release in 2026, and potentially a new mobile game codenamed “Project Stories.”
The Bigger Picture
The Sims Mobile’s closure highlights the precarious nature of live-service games that depend entirely on online servers. Once EA pulls the plug, years of player creativity, stories, and virtual homes vanish permanently. Interestingly, The Sims FreePlay—an older mobile title released before The Sims Mobile—continues operating, adding salt to the wound for fans who preferred Mobile’s superior graphics and gameplay.
This shutdown reflects broader industry trends where publishers sunset older titles to focus on newer, potentially more profitable ventures. For players, the lesson is clear: digital investments in always-online games carry inherent risks with no guarantees of longevity. Learn more about The Sims franchise at EA’s official Sims website and explore additional gaming news on Technosports.
FAQs
Will I get refunds for my Sims Mobile purchases?
No, EA confirmed that leftover in-game currency and purchases are not eligible for refunds after the shutdown.
Can I play The Sims Mobile offline after servers close?
No, the game requires online servers and will be completely unplayable once they shut down on January 20, 2026.
