The Sims 4: Every Game Pack, Ranked

In August 2000, The Sims franchise, which later gained critical acclaim, was released its initial Downloadable Content (DLC) for the first time.

In “The Sims: Livin’ Large,” there wasn’t a clear central theme, but it introduced items to make gameplay more diverse. The original version of The Sims had 7 expansion packs. This number increased to 8 for The Sims 2, and by the time The Sims 3 was discontinued, there were an impressive 11 expansions and 9 additional content packs available.

What about The Sims 4? There’s a trend of DLC becoming more prevalent as the mainline entries grow.

Currently, The Sims 4 boasts a total of 84 DLC offerings, including expansions, game packs, stuff packs, and kits. Among these, there are twelve game packs that may not all be equally appealing, so let me share with you my top picks and the reasons behind them.

The Score Methodology

To ensure clarity, I’d like to clarify the specific system I’ve developed for rating each pack:

“Let me explain the detailed approach I came up with for evaluating every pack, so we’re all in agreement.

• Packs gain 2 points for adding a world—worlds are judged on interactivity, design, and whether they’re vacation-only or residential.
• They gain a further 2 points for good variety and quality clothing and accessories in the CAS (Create-A-Sim) menu. These are judged on adherence to the pack’s theme as well.
• I’ll chuck another two points at a pack that serves up unique, versatile, practical, and thematically sound Build/Buy assets that allow for fully functional, cohesive builds.
• Gameplay can score a pack a further 2.5 points based on the presence of sufficient new mechanics, additional life states, fun features, and the pack’s replayability.
• Lastly, packs get 1.5 points for enhancing The Sims 4 base game without relying on other packs and integrating well with the broader Sims 4 experience.

Each pack in this game (The Sims 4) can potentially earn a maximum of 10 points, considering the standard gameplay – I’m excluding any potential issues like bugs and glitches, which are quite common in most DLC packs for The Sims 4, and unfortunately, these aren’t usually addressed by EA or Maxis.

If a game from Electronic Arts (EA) seems broken or full of bugs, it’s likely that modders have put in the effort to create solutions. Therefore, if you find a game pack problematic or nearly unplayable due to glitches, there might be a mod available to rectify the issue.

12. Star Wars: Journey to Batuu

A Mouthful And Little Else

As a lifelong Star Trek fan, I must admit that I see the hard work and dedication that went into creating this collection. However, there are a few key points you should be aware of before diving in.

If you remove the captivating features, high-quality apparel, and authentic replication of a popular universe from one series to another, all that remains is… essentially the core content or essence of each game.

A pack that, while impressive with its Star Wars collectibles and Spooky Day outfits, doesn’t significantly contribute to the functionality or development of The Sims 4 gameplay environment.

Batuu, despite its breathtaking beauty, might seem devoid of purpose in the end. However, it’s definitely worth a trip, especially if you’ve purchased the package. The main appeal is the fun and excitement it offers, along with Star Wars-inspired quests.

However, consider this: If your intentions involve constructing a vacation residence close to the renowned cantina, or establishing a life with potential Jedi offspring, reconsider; construction is not permitted in this location.

11. Outdoor Retreat

Really Good Hiking Boots

This initial expansion for The Sims 4 lacks the polish that subsequent ones have. To fully enjoy this pack, it’s recommended to also own Cottage Living, Eco Lifestyle, and Jungle Adventure, as Outdoor Retreat falls short in terms of its resources, setting, and gameplay compatibility, making the purchase questionable.

As a gamer, I often find myself struggling to create an authentic wilderness cabin experience using only the pre-set materials provided. These items just don’t seem to blend seamlessly into the rugged, untamed environment that I’m trying to build within.

As a gamer, I’ve noticed that when it comes to Outdoor Retreat, they really step up their shoe game! More so than any other clothing category. While the pack does boast some nifty traits and hairdos, nothing quite stands out as a true game-changer.

The package includes Granite Falls, a charming yet minute world ideal for vacations. Residency is not an option here without additional modifications. You may encounter Park Rangers periodically, but they’re standard NPCs with no interactive gameplay elements. Regrettably, the lake is merely decorative; it’s not possible to swim in it.

10. Dine Out

Pretty Decent With Mods & Custom Content

As a gamer, I’d say: Man, the Dine Out expansion for The Sims 4 is notoriously glitchy. It kicks off with an abundance of Create-a-Sim (CAS) options—but unfortunately, these are mostly for server, chef, and other job-related characters that my Sim can’t actually perform.

Even so, I found a charming floral dress and a cute top that are perfect for date night.

Builders are likely to favor the contemporary style of assets along with modular restaurant furniture, since this collection comes equipped with all necessary items for constructing an efficient and visually appealing eatery. However, it’s important to note that the package is limited to a single design theme.

Despite numerous bugs and issues – it’s important to note there are plenty – this pack doesn’t offer a satisfactory experience in Creating a Sim or Build/Buy modes. If you appreciate the concept of the gameplay, I’d recommend exploring other outstanding single-player restaurant simulation games available instead.

9. Parenthood

Who’s Your Daddy?

Instead of offering one comprehensive family-focused expansion for The Sims 3 called Generations, Electronic Arts (EA) and Maxis decided to split the original Generations content into multiple separate packs for The Sims 4, which increased the overall cost.

Parenting involves key aspects, particularly the relationships, aims, and strategies between parents.

This pack performs an about-face and earns points due to its impressively versatile Building/Buying options. With nothing but this pack, you can construct a complete, cozy, and inviting abode for your entire family.

The true brilliance of this pack lies in its gameplay; it offers a variety of subtler parenting scenarios, deeper character relationships, and greater control over shaping your child’s future as an adult.

Here, the characteristics and goals align with the overall concept, yet without the additional family units, Parenthood seems inadequate or unfulfilled.

8. Spa Day

Shavasana To A Total Warrior II

This pack has been the sole one to receive an update following years of repetition, thanks to CAS. They’ve introduced a decent selection of activewear, including my preferred joggers designed for a more masculine physique.

Additionally, we notice several extra nail care solutions, however, many of these are for use after a refresh; the initial selection was disorganized. The purpose of Spa Day is to provide all necessary items for creating your own spa, and it certainly delivers on that promise.

It came as a surprise that I could construct a contemporary, attractive dwelling using these materials as well. The game mechanics are quite robust in this instance. Here, you can rent a seat at a spa, providing massage or treatment services.

In essence, it’s likely that you’ll find yourself administering treatments to your staff members more frequently than other residents, as our spa establishments tend to be predominantly occupied by staff rather than any other group.

At a spa, you won’t be able to earn a steady income, enjoy benefits, or advance with promotions – it’s more like being a ‘rent-a-chair’ worker instead.

7. My Wedding Stories

It’s Giving Mamma Mia

As a gamer, I jump headfirst into the immersive world of virtual weddings, offering a stunning array of outfits tailored to various body types. While the collection leans more towards female characters, there’s plenty to choose from for my male counterparts as well.

The beauty here is the inclusion of so many traditional wedding garments from other cultures.

In The Sims 4, the rainbow patterns may seem a bit outdated to some, yet they’re there for those who appreciate them. If they don’t suit your preference, simply opt for something else – The Sims 4 prides itself on offering a multitude of choices to cater to diverse styles, tastes, and aspirations.

This design, inspired by Mediterranean countries such as Croatia, Italy, Spain, and Greece, offers a surprising array of elements true to its origin. Being of Greek descent myself, I’m clearly partial to this architectural fusion found within the package.

A revamp in gameplay mechanics could be advantageous. Despite that, it transforms weddings into more of a task list. In summary, this expansion pack is commendable for The Sims 4 in every aspect; simply install a few good Sims 4 mods to address any issues with glitches.

6. StrangerVille

Not Strangetown, But Just As Weird

This was the initial video game I purchased personally, marking the start of my adventure with downloadable content (DLC). It offers a distinctive Sims adventure – a captivating detective-style quest complete with intriguing alien encounters, eccentric characters, and visually appealing desert landscapes.

The very first game I splurged on myself was the one that kick-started my DLC adventure. It’s an extraordinary Sims experience – a thrilling detective quest brimming with aliens, quirky characters, and a picturesque desert setting.

This pack offers numerous design elements blending Victorian, Antebellum, and farmhouse styles. EA has enriched the selection of wooden finishes with this bundle, and the overall harmony lends a sense of balance to your construction project.

This pack truly excels during gameplay. It offers an immersive detective adventure leading to a climactic ending, complete with intriguing rewards along the way. Once completed, you’re free to revisit the town for continued enjoyment.

Its allure never fades, and your Sim will earn boasting privileges upon solving the StrangerVille enigma. (Informal, conversational tone)

5. Dream Home Decorator

HGTV The Game

You could refer to the following home renovation duos: Chip and Joanna Gaines, the Starsiak sisters (Karen and Mina), or perhaps the pair from Flip or Flop, which is Tarek and Christina El Moussa.

If you’re a fan of HGTV, chances are you have your preferred renovation crew—from now on, it will be you leading the charge! The Dream Home Decorator pack from CAS really impresses me with all the items it includes for a seamless Build/Buy project.

As a devoted enthusiast, I’d have to say that “Build/Buy” truly takes the cake! It offers not just one, but two fully-equipped kitchen setups, plus two distinctly stylish living room arrangements. To top it off, it comes with functional sectional seating that really ties the space together.

In this setting, you won’t discover a novel world, but instead, you’ll encounter an innovative career opportunity that could be one of the most immersive yet. Your role will encompass overseeing the entire renovation project, including interacting with clients to understand their preferences and dislikes, deciding on the ideal theme for the space, executing the renovation work, and capturing both the pre-renovation and post-renovation images.

Once you’ve completed your work, you’ll unveil the space to the client, observing their response, along with receiving your compensation. Despite a few bumps in the road, it has a solid foundation that I appreciate. I find this project incredibly challenging yet rewarding, as it successfully met my expectations on numerous fronts.

4. Werewolves

A-Wooo

Among all the collections, this particular one stands out distinctly due to its theme. From a distance, it appears that Creative Artistic Solutions (CAS) has gone all-in on the grunge style.

This new offering has a raw, intense quality unlike anything we’ve previously presented, featuring some fantastic items suitable for a wide range of settings and age groups. The Build/Buy series follows a narrative with far less polish and glamour than typical, instead showcasing more signs of wear and damage.

Although these components are crucial, they won’t be sufficient to construct a completely furnished home, but you certainly can put together an impressive wolf den or hideout.

In this newly created setting, influenced by Twilight, there are merely five distinct areas that blend mill ruins with forest – yet ample room is available for exploration, playfulness, and even physical confrontation. Moreover, it boasts a suitable hilltop where one can express their emotions freely by howling as much as they desire.

Regarding gameplay, there’s a blend of storyline elements from this pack and Vampires/Werewolves, with werewolves receiving significantly more focus compared to other supernatural lifestyles that have been less highlighted in the past.

This group is quite lively, each member possessing distinct qualities, talents, and a fresh set of skills that resemble those of magical beings from other realms.

3. Realm of Magic

Trinkets, Charms, and Spells

This collection of CAS items offers numerous perspectives on magic, catering to various interpretations. It provides an array of immersive outfits for your sim character, be it a Gothic witch, Sabrina Spellman, the scholarly dark academia style, or a contemporary kitchen witch.

In the Enchanted Domain, you’ll find an ample selection of eccentric, mystical furnishings suitable for constructing a unique-style dwelling. However, it falls short in comparison to the wide array of Customizable Architectural Elements (CAS) options available.

You can reach Glimmerbrook, a place granting entry to the Enchanted Land, an area far surpassing in beauty and immersion. However, it’s important to note that one cannot reside permanently within this captivating realm.

In our game, you’ll find various skill progression paths (skill trees), multiple areas of mystical learning (three distinct magical disciplines), wise teachers (sages), and an array of spells that significantly impact gameplay mechanics.

This package introduces a fresh combat mechanism specifically designed for spellcasters, spells that serve practical functions beyond influencing emotions, and effectively, it offers the exploration of two additional game worlds.

From any perspective, this is a major win for The Sims team.

2. Vampires

Stay Out Of My House Vlad

The most striking feature of this collection is introducing a novel existence – Vampires. This also entails facing the perennial, annoying Count Vladislaus Straud IV. In this update, Sims can assume both human and dark forms if they opt for the vampire lifestyle.

Vampires draw heavily on their dark Gothic literary roots, favoring an array of black, deep reds, and regal purples. Their attire is typically elaborate, adorned, and evocative of European fashion trends during the 14th and 15th centuries.

Explore and Acquire here lies all that the Goth family could need and beyond. From a traditional Gothic style to a contemporary twist, I believe the building/purchasing options provided are versatile enough for you to experiment with various designs.

In Forgotten Hollow, the atmosphere is quite dreary and lifeless, with a modest size and few activities or inhabitants to be found.

Previously mentioned, there’s a legend linking this group with werewolves, yet possessing knowledge of that connection isn’t essential to appreciate Vampires on its own merit.

1. Jungle Adventure

“Fortune And Glory Kid, Fortune And Glory”

I must admit, EA has struck a fantastic balance between the thrilling spirit of Indiana Jones and the vibrant essence of Latin America in this collection. It’s like embarking on my very own adventure!

In a lively blend of traditional attire and practical items, this collection is exceptional, boasting an abundance of pockets I’ve rarely encountered in a Sims 4 game expansion – Jungle Adventure truly shines in the Build/Buy mode department.

This assortment includes both mysterious, temple-like objects reminiscent of ancient ruins, along with items that share the same atmosphere and can seamlessly blend into architectural structures from various other realms.

In simpler terms, Selvadorada functions as a holiday destination, not a permanent residence. The pre-constructed plots in this package are notably superior to those in other sets. Moreover, considering the jungle’s significant role in this package, it effectively showcases the vastness of the jungle region, even extending beyond the boundaries of the interactive, randomly generated temple.

As a gamer, I’ve got to admit that the puzzles in this temple aren’t your typical brain-teasers you find in a conventional game. Instead, they’re more like the daily challenges that come with managing a Sims life – it’s a different kind of fun, not exactly a drawback, just a unique twist!

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2025-01-07 16:41