An official walkthrough trailer for The Sims 4 has apparently leaked one of EA’s monetising initiatives for the title.
Joystiq reports that the 20 minute video, which can be seen below, carries an on-screen ad for The Sims 4 Premium membership.
"The Sims 4 Premium. Save on new packs with early access and exclusive items,” it says.
Become a Premium member to get early access to three new packs, with exclusive items. Your Sims can throw a spooky costume party, camp in the great outdoors, and toast to the new year in style."
Premium memberships in EA titles such as Battlefield are now commonplace but such a model would be new for The Sims.
But the reality is that as much as some fans are likely to be vocal in their opposition, it’s exactly the sort of thing that’s likely to appeal to much of The Sims’ substantial fan base and potentially make big money for EA.
Here’s the video: