Life Simulator?

File: maxresdefault (1).jpg (182KB, 1280x720px) Image search: [Google]

182KB, 1280x720px

Why is it that EA gets to hold a monopoly on the Life simulation genre?

The sims 4 is such a hallow cash grab compared to the Sims 3. Sure, 3 was over ambitious but it largely built on what the Sims 2 was. 4 just seems like a slide back from 3. They gutted a bunch of features and it feels like calling 4 a Sims 2 revert is too good for it. The base game of the Sims 2 was jammed with content, 4s base game seemed empty and ultra basic, just made to be slapped with expansion packs for $40 a piece. The series seems to have slowed down as well, They do those tiny game stuff packs instead of full on expansions and all that DLC seems like it doesn't add a whole lot to the game beyond a few gimmicks that get tired quickly.

What I am wondering is why doesn't another company have a try at it? EA seems to have gotten lazy with creating their game. Minimal effort and they charge a lot for the littlest bits. And the common people who lack the knowledge to pirate have to put up with it. In my opinion I think the Sims 4 would be the only game and DLC I could Pirate and not feel bad about. Just because EA really sticks it to their fan base.

So I was thinking, If a company like Paradox could enter the city simulation market and beat the shit out of that crappy SimCity reboot, why cant they make a competing Life simulator to slap the Sims around? I think a paradox flavored Life Simulator would be an interesting experience.

Do you think there will be a Sims 5 soon?
Would it be a another low effort cash grab designed for toasters?
What would you wanna see in another companies honest effort to compete with the Sims?
Should they stay rated T, or go beyond?
What would it take to make an indie attempt?