Level Up Your Sims 4: A Comprehensive Guide to Downloading Custom Content

The Sims 4 is a fantastic game, offering endless possibilities for storytelling and creative expression. But sometimes, the in-game assets just don’t cut it. That’s where custom content (CC) comes in! CC allows you to personalize your game with unique hairstyles, clothing, furniture, and even gameplay tweaks, transforming your Sims world into something truly your own. This guide will walk you through the entire process of downloading and installing custom content, ensuring you can dive in safely and easily.

Understanding Custom Content (CC)

Before we jump into the how-to, it’s crucial to understand what custom content is and the different types you might encounter:

• Mods: These are script-based files that fundamentally alter gameplay mechanics. They can add new features, tweak existing ones, or even fix bugs. Mods are powerful but require more care during installation.
• Custom Content (CC): This term generally refers to non-script-based modifications, like new hairstyles, clothing, furniture, build objects, and makeup. These are primarily cosmetic changes and usually easier to install than mods.
• .package Files: These are the most common format for CC. They contain the actual data for the custom item.
• .ts4script Files: These are the files associated with mods. They contain the script code that changes gameplay.

Important Note: While CC and mods can enhance your game, they are unofficial additions and can sometimes cause conflicts or bugs. Always download CC from reputable sources and ensure it’s compatible with your current game version.

Preparing Your Game for Custom Content

Before you start downloading anything, you need to enable custom content in your game settings. Here’s how:

1. Launch The Sims 4: Open the game.
2. Go to Options: Click on the ellipsis menu (…) in the top right corner of the screen and select “Game Options.”
3. Navigate to Other: In the Options menu, click on the “Other” tab.
4. Enable Custom Content and Mods: Check the box labeled “Enable Custom Content and Mods.”
5. Enable Script Mods: Check the box labeled “Script Mods Allowed” if you plan to install script based mods.
6. Apply Changes: Click the “Apply Changes” button.
7. Restart the Game: You’ll need to close and restart The Sims 4 for these changes to take effect.

Note: If you don’t see the “Enable Custom Content and Mods” option, it’s likely because the game is not currently running or has not been installed properly. Once you have done all these steps, proceed to finding and downloading your CC.

Finding Reputable Sources for Custom Content

The internet is teeming with websites offering Sims 4 custom content, but not all of them are safe or reliable. It’s crucial to be discerning and stick to reputable sources to avoid downloading malware or corrupted files. Here are some excellent places to begin your search:

• The Sims Resource (TSR): This is one of the largest and most established CC sites. They offer a vast library of items, and they are usually safe and reliable.
  • Pros: Huge selection, well-organized, regular updates, usually safe downloads.
  • Cons: Free downloads often have wait times and ads, requires creating a free account for some features, and the sheer size can make searching for specific items a challenge.
• Mod The Sims (MTS): Primarily known for its mods, Mod The Sims also has a good amount of high-quality CC, particularly if you are seeking specific types of items or build/buy CC. They have a thorough quality control process, but read comments to make sure files work well.
• Pros: Focuses on functionality and quality, strong community, strict content guidelines, can download several files at the same time.
• Cons: The site design is old and sometimes not user-friendly. The amount of files are less than TSR.
• Tumblr Blogs: Many talented CC creators host their content on Tumblr. Search for tags like #sims4cc, #ts4cc, #sims4downloads. Always check the reblog history to ensure that the download source is the original.
• Pros: Unique and often artistically made CC, very large source of a variety of items.
• Cons: Can be difficult to navigate, not all creators are reliable, and you need to be extra careful with links. Make sure your files are .package or .ts4script.
• Patreon Creators: Many CC creators use Patreon to offer exclusive content to their subscribers. If you find a creator you really like, supporting them can be a good way to get access to unique and high-quality items. However, always ensure they have good reviews before commiting.
• Pros: Exclusive and often very detailed content, helps support creators, frequently very unique.
• Cons: Usually requires a paid subscription, always be aware of creators history and previous work.
• Dedicated Sims 4 CC Websites and Directories: There are several other websites that curate CC, providing an alternative to the larger websites listed above. Always read reviews and ensure a website’s legitimacy before downloading.

General Safety Tips:

• Use an antivirus: Ensure your antivirus software is up-to-date and running before downloading any files.
• Be skeptical: If a website looks suspicious or promises too much, it’s best to avoid it.
• Read comments: Check comments and feedback on CC before downloading to see if anyone has encountered issues.
• Download from direct sources: Avoid using third-party download managers or file-sharing websites when possible, instead go to the original creator’s website.
• Always check the file extension: Make sure you are downloading .package files or .ts4script. Do not download .exe files or other unknown file types, and if that is the only option from a source, avoid using it.

Downloading and Installing Custom Content (Step-by-Step)

Once you’ve found some custom content you’d like to try, here’s how to download and install it:

1. Locate the Download Link: On the CC page, you’ll usually find a download button or link. Click on this to start the download. Sometimes it will show a wait time, especially if the site is free like TSR. Wait patiently and do not close the window while waiting to download.
2. Choose the Download Method: Some sites offer multiple download options; choose the most appropriate one for your current need. Most files are usually hosted on the websites themselves, but some creators use file hosting services.
3. Save the File: Save the file to a location that you can easily find, like your desktop or downloads folder.
4. Locate Your Sims 4 Mods Folder: The Mods folder is located within your Sims 4 user data directory. The path to find it is different in each Operating System.
   • Windows: Documents\Electronic Arts\The Sims 4\Mods
   • macOS: /Users/[YourUsername]/Documents/Electronic Arts/The Sims 4/Mods
   • Note: If a “Mods” folder doesn’t exist, you can create one, ensure it’s named correctly and in the right place, inside the “The Sims 4” folder.
5. Move the .package or .ts4script Files: Drag or copy the downloaded .package or .ts4script files (not the zip files or folders they might be in) directly into the “Mods” folder. Do not make subfolders unless that is explicitly specified by the creators.
6. Make Sure the Folder is Not Too Deep: It is important that you don’t put your files in multiple subfolders, otherwise the game will have difficulty finding them and they won’t show up in-game.
7. Start The Sims 4: Launch The Sims 4. If you did everything correctly, when loading the game you will see a window pop-up that lists the custom content you’ve added to your game. This shows which files you have downloaded and if they have been properly installed.
8. Check if the CC is Working: Go to Create-a-Sim (CAS) or Build/Buy mode to see your new CC. Items will usually be located in the sections they are supposed to be in, i.e. hair in the hairstyle section, clothes in the clothing section and build/buy items in the build/buy catalog. Make sure you’re checking the right categories.

Troubleshooting Common CC Issues

Sometimes, things don’t go smoothly. Here are some common problems you might encounter and how to solve them:

• CC Not Showing Up:
  • Check if CC is enabled: Go back to Game Options to make sure CC is enabled.
  • Ensure files are in the correct folder: Double-check the path to your Mods folder and make sure the .package and .ts4script files are inside.
  • Make sure the files are not in subfolders: Avoid having multiple subfolders within your “Mods” folder. If files are in multiple subfolders, the game might not be able to locate them.
  • Game Version Issues: Sometimes, CC might be outdated and no longer compatible with the latest version of The Sims 4, if a new update came out, check that your CC is compatible with the new version. The author will usually write if the item needs to be updated.
  • Too Much CC: Having a huge amount of CC can sometimes cause issues with loading and game instability. Try removing some CC to see if that fixes the problem.
  • Corrupted File: If a file is corrupted, it can cause problems with the game. Redownload the file and remove the older one.
• Game Crashes or Errors:
  • Remove Recently Added CC: If your game starts crashing after you add new CC, try removing the newly added files and see if it fixes the issue.
  • Use the 50/50 Method: If you have a lot of CC, remove half of it. If the game works, the problem is in the other half. Repeat this process with the half that isn’t working until you find the problem file.
  • Check for Mod Conflicts: If you have mods in your folder, sometimes they might conflict with each other. Remove all of your mods and add them one by one to see which one is causing the issue.
  • Outdated Mods: Make sure all of your mods are updated to the latest game version.
• CC Is Visibly Glitched:
  • Outdated CC: Some outdated CC may not work properly in newer versions of the game.
  • Conflicting CC: Two or more CC files might conflict with each other, resulting in glitches. Remove recently added files and add them one by one.
  • Mesh Issues: Some CC may have mesh or texture errors.
• Unwanted CC:
  • Remove files from Mods folder: Go to your “Mods” folder and remove the unwanted files. If you don’t know which files are which, make sure to check by file name.
  • Clean game cache: Delete cache files in the “The Sims 4” folder located in your documents. Look for files with “cache” in the name and delete them. They will be created again when you launch the game.

Organizing and Managing Your Custom Content

As you collect more CC, it can become challenging to keep track of everything. Here are a few tips for organizing and managing your custom content:

• Create Folders: While it is generally recommended that you do not use subfolders, you can create an exception for mods. Keep .package files directly in your main “Mods” folder but, you can create subfolders for specific mods or categories such as hair, makeup or furniture, as long as the script file (.ts4script) are outside of them.
• Use a Spreadsheet: Create a spreadsheet to keep a record of the names of the CC that you have, the type of item it is, and where you downloaded it from. This helps keep track of everything.
• Back Up Your Mods Folder: Regularly back up your Mods folder in case something goes wrong or you need to reinstall the game.
• Test CC Periodically: Test your CC from time to time to see if any of the old files are creating glitches in the game. Make sure to test your files after each update.
• CC Manager Tools: There are third party programs that allow you to quickly search and find CC that you would like to add or delete. Always do research to make sure these tools are safe to use.

The Importance of Ethical CC Usage

While downloading CC can be fun, it’s important to be ethical and respectful of the creators:

• Don’t re-upload CC: It is bad practice to re-upload another person’s content and claim it as your own. Always give credit to the original creator.
• Support the Creators: If you can, support the creators whose work you enjoy. This could be through Patreon or direct donations.
• Read terms of use: Many creators specify how their creations can or cannot be used. Always respect their terms of use.

Conclusion

Downloading and installing custom content can transform your Sims 4 experience, allowing you to create a more personalized and unique world. By following this guide and taking the necessary precautions, you can enjoy a richer and more exciting game. Remember to always download from trusted sources, respect the creators of the CC, and keep your game updated. Happy Simming!