Celebrate West African Design in The Sims 4
The newest Sims 4 update brings something truly special: a celebration of West African creativity, culture, and storytelling. It’s more than a cosmetic drop — it’s a thoughtful collaboration between Maxis, the Pan African Gaming Group (PAGG), and Simmers with roots across West Africa and the global African diaspora.
Inspired by West Africa — For Every Sim Home
This update introduces new Build/Buy and Create-a-Sim items that draw directly from traditional crafts and design motifs found across the region. Each object carries a name and a story:
- Okuta Lamp with Woven Shade — “Okuta,” meaning “stone” in Yoruba, features a solid base and a handcrafted look inspired by Nigerian artisans.
- Ìtura Cushion — “Ìtura” means “comfort,” and these pillows bring both warmth and color, echoing the textile heritage of West Africa.
- Wallu Woven Basket — Crafted in the spirit of Senegal’s Wolof weavers, this piece honors community craftsmanship and tradition.
- Hiwe Area Rug — Named from the Igbo word for “support,” it ties your room together with a touch of history underfoot.
- Visions of Home — A collection of wall art celebrating family, memory, and the everyday beauty of West African life.
Even small additions like the West African Aloe Plant — with its vivid orange blossoms — help connect your Sim homes to real plants and colors found across the continent.
Flavors From the Continent
The update also introduces a new recipe — Jollof Rice with Chicken Drumsticks — one of West Africa’s most beloved dishes. Whether your Sims are from Senegal, Ghana, or Nigeria, this vibrant, one-pot meal adds both taste and tradition to the dinner table.
To go with it, there’s a decorative “Trio of Flavor” set — wooden bowls featuring Bambara beans, Guinea cubeb, and grains of paradise — all real ingredients deeply rooted in African cuisine.
Fashion as Storytelling
New Create-a-Sim outfits complete the update: bold patterned shirts, bright jumpsuits, head wraps, and jewelry that reflect the artistry of West African design. Each piece mixes traditional motifs with modern tailoring — perfect for everyday wear or family events.
It’s heartwarming to see The Sims team taking this approach — building culture into the core of play, not just as decoration. As Maame Adjei and Kasyoka Mwanzia from PAGG said, “This collaboration was deeply fulfilling, helping shape content that honors the beauty and complexity of West African culture.”
Available Now
This update is free for all players and part of The Sims 4 base game. It’s live on PC, Mac, PlayStation, and Xbox — no pack required.
References
- EA – “Celebrate West African Design in The Sims 4” (2025)
- Pan African Gaming Group – Cultural collaboration statement, November 2025.