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Tutorial: How to Install Mods in Sims 4

Mods can enhance your Sims 4 experience by adding new content, features, and customizations. Here’s a simple guide to help you get started with installing mods.

Enable Mods in the Game

To use mods in The Sims 4, you first need to enable mod support within the game. To enable mods in The Sims 4, launch the game and go to the “Options” menu. Under “Game Options” and then “Other”, check the boxes for “Enable Custom Content and Mods” and, if needed, “Script Mods Allowed”. Apply the changes and restart the game. Your mods should now be active and available in the game.

Find and Download Mods

To enhance your The Sims 4 gameplay, it’s crucial to download mods from reputable sources. This ensures you’re getting high-quality and original content. Here’s how to find and download mods safely:

  • Visit trusted platforms like CurseForge or the official blogs and websites of mod creators to ensure you’re downloading safe and high-quality mods.
  • Avoid collector sites that steal and redistribute mods from other sources to ensure you’re obtaining authentic content.

Note: I distribute my mods exclusively on Patreon and CurseForge. Any versions found on other platforms are stolen copies, and I do not take responsibility for them. While some creators may use other platforms, I recommend sticking to Patreon and CurseForge for secure and authorized downloads.

Once you’ve downloaded the mods, use a program like WinRAR or 7-Zip to extract the files. You should end up with files that have extensions like .package or .ts4script.

Placing Mods in the Mods Folder

To ensure your mods are correctly installed in The Sims 4, follow these steps to place the files in the appropriate folder. Find the Mods Folder, typically:

Documents > Electronic Arts > The Sims 4 > Mods

Add Mod Files:

  • If the mod only contains .package files, the structure (number of subfolders and depth) doesn’t matter much. The game will recognize the content regardless of its placement within the Mods folder.
  • Mods that include .ts4script files require specific placement to function correctly. Ensure that the .ts4script file is not nested more than one subfolder deep within the Mods folder.

Ensure Proper Folder Structure:

  • If you have multiple mods, you can use subfolders within the “Mods” folder to keep everything organized. For example, you might have a folder for “Clothing Mods” and another for “Gameplay Mods.”
  • Sometimes it’s also useful to categorize mods by author. You can decide this based on your preferences.
  • However, remember to keep script mods no more than one subfolder deep within the “Mods” folder (as per the previous guideline).

Verify Installation:

  • After placing the files in the “Mods” folder, launch The Sims 4 and check if the mods are recognized by the game. You should see a notification about custom content being detected.
  • Note that you can disable this verification message, which means you might not see it even if you add new mods.

Final Tips for Installing Mods

To ensure a smooth modding experience in The Sims 4, here are some final tips to keep in mind when installing mods. Following these recommendations will help you avoid common issues and make the most out of your custom content:

  • Backup Your Saves: Always back up your game saves before adding new mods. This protects your progress in case of mod-related issues.
  • Keep Mods Updated: Regularly check for updates to ensure compatibility with the latest game patches. Outdated mods can cause bugs or crashes.
  • Read Instructions: Carefully read the mod descriptions and any accompanying instructions. Some mods may require additional steps or dependencies.

Mods Security Risks

When modding The Sims 4, it’s essential to be aware of potential risks, especially when dealing with script mods (.ts4script files). Here’s what you need to know:

  • Script Mods (.ts4script files) are executable programs written in Python. They can enhance your Sims 4 gameplay by adding new features and interactions. However, because they are executable, there is a risk of these files containing viruses or malware if downloaded from untrustworthy sources.
  • To mitigate these risks, always download script mods from reputable sources. Check the reputation of the mod author before downloading. Established creators with positive feedback are more likely to provide safe and reliable mods.
  • Unlike .ts4script files, .package files do not pose these security risks. They are safe to use and do not execute code, making them a simpler and safer option for customizing your game.

By following these guidelines, you can enjoy a secure and enjoyable modding experience in The Sims 4, exploring new content and enhancing your gameplay without compromising your system’s security. Happy modding!

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