The Sims has taken a big step forward for gender equality

Every once in a while, a video game comes along that becomes incredibly important for the generation that grow up with it.

Take The Sims. In its 16 years it's become one of the most successful franchises of all time, selling over 175 million copies, uniting the world in a collective pursuit to build the perfect home, experiment with social dynamics and... sure, occasionally trap a bunch of Sims in a swimming pool just to "see what happens".

Maxis, creators of the series, take their role of representing the interests of their community of players very seriously. They've announced a free update to The Sims 4 that will expand the Create A Sim mode, adding new gender customization options.

"For the first time, you'll be able to customize your Sims without the gender boundaries previously set in place," explains Maxis. "This means you can now create Sims with any type of physique, walk style, and tone of voice you choose – regardless of their gender."

This equates to clothing, hair, jewellery, and over 700 other visual options now becoming available for characters regardless of gender.

Just update your copy of The Sims 4 and you'll be able to start creating characters with more freedom than ever before. Good move, Maxis.