UPDATE: The livestream has ended! You can catch the replay down below.
The Sims Team will be doing a special livestream of The Sims 4 Snowy Escape Expansion Pack!
During the livestream we can expect that they’ll dive deep into different segments of the pack including the new World, Build, CAS and Gameplay!
The livestream is set to begin at 11AM PT / 7PM CET / 6PM BT. We’ve also included a countdown down – the livestream should begin when the countdown turns 0!
Over the past few months, some of the Simming community’s most influential Game Changers have been hinting at a secret project they’ve been working on. Now, that secret has finally been revealed! Today, James Turner, Deligracy, SimLicy, and lilsimsie have all posted videos to their YouTube channels to show off this top secret project.
EA teamed up with these Game Changers and asked them to build every lot in the world of Mt. Komorebi for the upcoming Sims 4 expansion pack, Snowy Escape. After years and years of complaints about poorly done EA builds shipping with the DLC packs, the team finally decided to hand the reins over to some of the community’s most accomplished builders. In fact, not a single lot in the world was built by anyone at EA!
Of course, James Turner, Deligracy, SimLicy, and lilsimsie all had certain restrictions and limitations they needed to comply with for this project, which they go over in more depth in each of their videos. In addition to the standard build limitations, their work was also reviewed and critiqued by EA’s cultural team to make sure that each lot was an authentic and respectful representation of both traditional and contemporary Japanese architecture.
You can check out their videos down below for all the details that went into this large scale collaboration with The Sims Team!
The Sims Team released an official blog post talking more about their BIG upcoming update for The Sims 4 which addresses Skin Tones and Makeup. Not only will we be getting more than 100 new Skin Tones to choose from but there’s now also new sliders to accompany the tones – along with new sliders for makeup as well!
Check out the preview below:
A few weeks ago, we shared some of our plans for updating skin tones and diversity options in The Sims™ 4, and it’s time for us to check in again! Our team has been hard at work on this important initiative. Find out what to expect over the next couple of months ahead.
Where We Are Now
On October 6, we launched a PC base game update* that improved issues with some of the existing darker skin tones. Specifically, we addressed the color banding that appeared on Sims’ cheeks and foreheads, which created a streaked and inconsistent appearance, and fixed discoloration along the nose tip. Doing so allowed us to create a consistent tone across the whole of the body, allowing for the shadows and details to be more visually distinct. (You can read about the specifics below to see whether the update applies on your computer.) We also tweaked the male afro and braids base game hairstyles to reflect the detail, texture, and style of their real life counterparts. Console players will notice those changes reflected in the November 10 update.
These improvements are just the first step in our plans to give you the tools you deserve to express and represent yourself.
An Important Update Hits This December
On December 8, we will be adding over 100 new skin tones to The Sims 4. Every skin tone will have a value slider to unlock thousands of more customizable options. In addition, we’ll make compression improvements to make both new and existing skin tones display better, including strengthening the quality of suntans and sunburns.
Our December update also includes the introduction of four makeup sliders to more freely complement all skin tones. The hue slider lets you control your color, while the value slider lets you adjust brightness. You’ll be able to adjust transparency with the opacity slider, and control how much color is in your makeup with the saturation slider. This will ensure your chosen makeup looks just right on your selected skin tone.
Lastly, three more base game hairstyles will see improvements in the December update. These include two children’s hairstyles—the braided ponytail with baby hairs and the braided ponytail without baby hairs—and the flat-top texture hairstyle.
More to Come
It’s our goal to ensure the representation in The Sims 4 is more inclusive. To do so, we’ve been working with consultants, including prominent community members like Game Changers Mia Zaff, EbonixSims, Rao, Xmiramira, and CatherineGames. They’ve been advising us in our endeavors to create a more inclusive game for everyone. It was their suggestion to add additional hairstyles without baby hairs in the December update, which is why there are three rather than the two we previously announced.
Going forward, we’re committed to continuing to improve The Sims 4 to give you the game you deserve. We can’t wait to see what you’ll create in the future, and we’re so grateful to have you on this journey with us.
Thank you!
We are working on this hair, too. We want to make sure we are getting it right, so we don’t have a date for when this will be updated just yet. 💚
A topic that has popped up a handful of times recently over in the Sims Community Facebook group is how are people playing The Sims 4 on their iPads, tablets, or mobile phones? Now, you might be thinking, you can only get The Sims Mobile or The Sims Freeplay on mobile devices and not The Sims 4. While yes this is correct, you are actually able to play The Sims 4 (providing you already own the game on console) by using your respective consoles remote play features.
Below you will find a step by step guide on how to set up remote play features for your Xbox One or PlayStation 4.
Note: For this article, we tested out both apps on a 2017 iPad Pro. Both apps are available on Apple and Android devices. For full device compatibility, check the app for details.
First things first, you’ll need to head over to either the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and download either the Xbox App or PS Remote Play App onto your device.
Xbox One
Turn on your console like normal.
Once you have signed in to your account head over to the top right of the app and look for the icon that looks like an Xbox and tap on it.
You’ll then be presented with a small pop-up menu with several different options and you will want to select remote play on the device.
From there, follow the on-screen instructions. You’ll then be asked to select the enable option displayed on your television/monitor to allow remote play access.
You’ll need to pair your controller and to do this simply head back into your smart device settings. Go to Bluetooth and you’ll need to search for your Xbox Controller. On your controller, press the small pairing button for a few seconds until the Home button flashes. The pairing button is located to the right of the LB button.
Once you have paired your controller to your smart device, return to the Xbox App (you may have to repeat the first few steps to relaunch remote play)
You will be presented with your Xbox Dashboard and you will be ready to play and launch The Sims 4 like normal. You can turn off your television/monitor (not the console) and play on your smart device instead.
Once you have finished playing, simply hold down the Home button and select stop streaming. You can then return to using your Xbox One like normal.
Note:You may be asked to update your Xbox Controller’s firmware when you connect first set up remote play. It is very straightforward and easy to do. Simply follow these steps.
Follow the on-screen instructions.
Once you have the screen with the Xbox Controller on it, select the button with the three dots on it.
Select the Update Firmware option from the left-hand side of the screen to update your controller.
Once updated, Check your controller has paired with your Smart Device in your device’s Bluetooth settings.
Return to your Xbox Home Screen and relaunch the Xbox App on your device.
PlayStation 4
Turn on your console like normal.
Once you have signed in to your account and pair your controller following the on-screen instructions.
Once you have successfully paired your controller, you will then need to connect to your console. This should be done automatically but there is an option to do it manually if needed.
Now that you have connected to your PlayStation you should see your normal home screen on your smart device. You can turn off your television/monitor (not the console) and play on your smart device instead.
The PS Remote Play App also features an on-screen controller that you can also use when playing The Sims 4. However, if you don’t wish to use it, the controller interface will fade away after a few seconds and you can use your controller as normal.
When you have finished playing, simply leave the app or shut down your console until the next time you go to play.
Don’t forget, if you own a PS Vita you can also use the Remote Play features on there too!
Both the Xbox app and the PS Remote Play app are straightforward to set up on your smart device. While there are other ways you can mirror your displays to a smart device, using the respective app for your console for direct streaming, provides the same smooth experience as if you were playing using a television/monitor to play.
The long-awaited compatibility release of The Sims 3 for Mac OS computers is finally out now!
You can download this version of The Sims 3 on Origin if you have a Mac OS device. If you’ve already registered The Sims 3 in your Game Library then a new version should pop out with a “64bit” tag on top of the Box Art. The Base Game along with all of the Expansion Packs and Stuff Packs should be updated to work with the latest 64bit & Metal version!
Please note that currently there are some issues in the main menu that people have reported on. EA is currently working on them and we’ll keep you posted as soon as they get resolved!
Hey Simmers, today we released an update for The Sims 3 with 64-bit & metal support for macOS. It got off to a rocky start! We are currently working hard to resolve the issues. Stay informed by watching the thread below (most current status = pinned msg) https://t.co/BAU37ygI66
WOW! What a day! You remember in the before-times, this morning, when the day looked like it was just going to be a super cool? Wow. That was a lifetime ago.What has happened? Great question! We opened the flood gates! And the downloads came, and the Internet held its collective breath, and then a few minutes later people with REALLY GOOD connections started reporting that they were getting some weird “incomplete install” error and they couldn’t get any father. THEN EVERYONE ELSE started reporting this problem too! Lo, the game team collectively sucked in our breath and said “uh-oh.”
Well it’s been a super exciting six hours since then. Super. Exciting. But we know what happened and we think we know how to fix it. There’s even a good chance you won’t have to re-download things. I don’t have an ETA for this fix other than “as fast as we absolutely can.” I’ll put out more updates as soon as I can.
Thanks for your patience everyone! It’s been really fantastic watching the humor and wit and enthusiasm the whole community of players has had as were worked to figure this out. You’re all just fantastic.
Frequently Asked Questions
I already own The Sims 3 on Mac, how do I get the new 64-bit version?
The Sims 3 for macOS, 64-bit will automatically be applied to your EA Account and available to install from My Library at no additional cost.
I plan to purchase The Sims 3, which versions will I get?
Purchasing The Sims 3 through Origin will provide you access to previously existing versions on Windows PC and Mac as well as the new version for macOS.
I own The Sims 3 on disc, how do I get the new version?
To get the new version of The Sims 3 for macOS, 64-bit, you will need to register your game with EA and download the 64-bit version of The Sims 3 from Origin. You can register your game and packs at www.thesims3.com by logging in with the same account you use with Origin (EA Help). For any registration or account related issues, please contact EA Support by visiting https://help.ea.com/contact-us
I already registered The Sims 3 on the website but I don’t see it in Origin, what do I do?
If you have already registered The Sims 3 and any packs on www.thesims3.com but do not see it in My Library in Origin, ensure you log in to Origin using the same email and password you use on www.thesims3.com. The same applies for using The Sims 3 website, login using the same details you use in Origin to see all of your owned content. Do not try to re-register your code in Origin or on the website as it will inform you that the code has already been redeemed since it is already applied to your EA Account. For any registration or account related issues, please contact EA Support by visiting https://help.ea.com/contact-us
Is this a Remaster or Remake of The Sims 3?
This new version is a compatibility release which adds support for 64-bit, Apple’s Metal graphics API, and makes the application a fully native macOS app. It is not a Remaster or Remake of The Sims 3.
Is changing from 32-bit to 64-bit the only thing that has changed?
No. This update of The Sims 3 also switches from OpenGL to Apple’s Metal graphics API, changes significantly how data is managed with the game service, where files are stored within the macOS file system, and has been updated to be a native macOS application.
Will the new version of The Sims 3 on Mac be delivered as an update?
No, due to the changes, The Sims 3 for macOS, 64-bit is seen as a different game by Origin. That means you will need to install rather than update.
I have Save Game files, can I continue my progress in the new version?
Your Save Game files are compatible with the new version of The Sims 3 and you will be able to continue where you left off. Before uninstalling any version of The Sims 3, we always recommend backing up your Save Game files.
Can I go back to the old version of The Sims 3?
Yes, if your macOS supports 32-bit applications (support for 32-bit was dropped by macOS in the Catalina release in 2019, but earlier versions of macOS that still support 32-bit applications might still run on your Macintosh), you can install either release of The Sims 3 from My Game Library in Origin. However, if you have macOS Catalina (10.15.x, released in 2019) or later, which only supports 64-bit applications, you will only be able to use the new release of the game.
Can I install the older macOS version and the new macOS version together?
No, you will only be able to have one version of The Sims 3 installed at a time.
I own both a new and an old Mac, can I still play on both?
Yes, in My Library you will see both the older and newer versions of The Sims 3. Simply install the version of the game which suits the Mac you are using.
I have The Sims 3 DLC and/or content from The Sims 3 Store. Do I need to re-purchase them if I use the new version?
No, all of your existing packs, Worlds and purchases from The Sims 3 Store stay with you. To install your Packs, you will need to download them once you have installed the new version of The Sims 3. You can do this by selecting The Sims 3 (64-bit & Metal) from My Game Library in Origin and selecting each Pack type and clicking the Download button. For content purchased from The Sims 3 Store, login at TheSims3.com and go to Store > My Store Account > Purchase History and you will see your purchases ready for download.
I want to use the new version of The Sims 3 on my Mac. What specs do I need?
You will need a Mac which has support for Apple’s Metal graphics API and be on macOS High Sierra (10.13.x, released in 2017) or later. For Minimum and Recommended specs, you can find them listed below and on The Sims 3 (64-bit & Metal) page on Origin.com.
MAC SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS
MINIMUM SPECS:
OS: Metal required. macOS® X 10.13 (High Sierra)
CPU: Intel Core 2 Duo 2.4GHz Processor or better
RAM: At least 4 GB RAM
HARD DRIVE: At least 15 GB of free space with at least 1 GB additional space for custom content and saved games
VIDEO: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 680, AMD Radeon RX 560, Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 or better
INPUT: Keyboard and Mouse
ONLINE REQUIREMENTS: Internet connection required for product activation.
RECOMMENDED SPECS:
OS: macOS® X 10.13 or later
PROCESSOR: Intel Core i5 or better
VIDEO CARD: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 680, AMD Radeon RX 560, Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 or better
MEMORY: 8GB RAM
HARD DRIVE: 18 GB of Hard Drive space
Apple has recently announced that the Mac platform is moving to ARM based CPUs. Is this release of The Sims 3 for macOS, 64-bit optimized for this new architecture?
This release of The Sims 3 for macOS, 64-bit is optimized for macOS running on Intel x86 CPUs. It is not optimized for the Apple ARM CPU architecture.
I don’t want to see two versions of The Sims 3 in My Game Library, what can I do?
If you want to keep your My Game Library tidy, you can hide the version of The Sims 3 which you do not use by highlighting The Sims 3 and right click and select Hide. You can view your hidden games at any time and unhide them where necessary by using the Hidden Games filter in My Game Library.
When will The Sims 3 for Windows be updated to 64-bit?
The Sims 3 for Windows PC works on both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows. We do recommend players on The Sims 3 version 1.67 or earlier update to version 1.69, which is available to download through Origin if you have registered your game and packs against your EA Account.
The Sims 3 for macOS is in my Origin library, but I can’t download it! Is something wrong?
Nope, nothing is wrong. Beginning on October 20 we began adding the entitlement for this version of the game to all Origin accounts that own any release of The Sims 3. This means that the game is showing up in your library, but that the game itself is not yet available for download. This is expected! The game will be available for download soon.
If you’re on Steam and you’ve been looking to save up on The Sims 4 Packs then The Sims Team has the perfect bundles for you!
EA has released two new Halloween Bundles exclusively on Steam that save up to 30% off on the total pack price. There are two seperate bundles: the Halloween Bundle and the Coven Bundle, each containing a somewhat different set of The Sims 4 Packs. Here’s a breakdown of each Bundle, what they include and how much you save up on the total price:
The highly anticipated gameplay trailer for The Sims 4 Snowy Escape dropped today, providing us with lots more information about all the features briefly seen in the initial reveal trailer. Below, we’ve compiled a list of some of our favourite features we spotted in the trailer, both confirmed and speculative.
Festivals
In the trailer, we can see Sims enjoying some festivities going on in Mt. Komorebi. Festivals are a confirmed new feature discussed in the official blog post. Festivals were initially introduced with City Living but many players have been asking for more variety when it comes to the festivals. The City Living festivals have become a bit repetitive over the past four years, so it will be refreshing to see some new ones.
Cave Exploration?
Cave exploration is not a confirmed feature, but in the trailer, we can definitely see some Sim-sized openings in the mountains and one Sim bravely venturing forth into one of these dark caverns. Sims Online has reported that these spots are in fact WooHoo locations, but we’d be quite surprised if that was their only purpose.
Hiking
Hiking appears to be more interactive than we previously anticipated! We can see Sims actually taking a walk in a group together in the nature of Mt. Komorebi and the narrator talks about hiking being a new activity. In the past, modders have added hiking activities to the game; however, these excursions had Sims disappear off the lot in a rabbithole for a period of time. It seems like we’ll be able to follow our Sims through these hiking trails which is great news!
New Greetings
It’s not surprising to see two Sims bowing to each other in a Japan-inspired pack. Bowing is a common greeting in Japan and is a sign of mutual respect between two people, so it’s nice to see that social custom in the game, as well. It’s both a fun and respectful new way to interact with other Sims.
Bare Feet Indoors
One feature some players noticed from the reveal trailer was Sims being in socks or bare foot indoors. The gameplay trailer features this more prominently. Most people take their shoes off when they enter someone’s home, so it always struck us as odd that our Sims were always walking around the house in their footwear to begin with, but removing one’s shoes before entering a building has even more significance in Japanese culture, so we’re happy to see this small but important detail come to the game.
New Disposal Bins
We couldn’t help but spot some new disposal bins outside a home in one shot of the trailer. Eco Lifestyle was primarily focused on living green and being more aware of how we dispose of everyday items, but these new colour-coded bins seem to hint at proper waste disposal being implemented somehow in Snowy Escape as well. It also looks like the bins are part of the editable lot and not just set dressing in the common space.
Customizable Platforms
Another confirmed feature coming to the game is customizable platforms! These new platforms can be resized, stacked on top of each other, and have varying degrees of height to open up a whole new way to build! This will be useful not only for recreating integral aspects of Japanese design, but also for all kinds of advanced architectural techniques seen in many types of modern homes around the world.
Floor Seating
Some new floor seating and low dining tables are a perfect compliment to the Japanese architecture and interior design featured in this pack. This will surely make for some warm and inviting family dinners or gatherings among close friends.
Lifestyles
We catch a glimpse of one of Snowy Escape‘s most anticipated new features; Lifestyles! As our Sims embark on new adventures and take up new hobbies and activities, they have the potential to pick up a new Lifestyle surrounding their interests. This gives us all types of The Sims 2 Freetime vibes and honestly? We’re living for it!
School Uniforms
What looks to be a group of teenagers attending school in Mt. Komorebi are wearing some traditional Japanese school uniforms! Personally, the lack of school uniforms was something this author has always been bothered by. I attended a high school that had uniforms somewhat similar to the ones depicted in this trailer and have always mixed and matched different clothing pieces to recreate school uniforms for my younger Sims. It is so exciting to see proper school uniforms in the game! Could this also be a hint for more teen-focused gameplay in the future? Hmmm…
Koi Fountains
We can see koi fish swimming around in shallow waters in the gameplay trailer, which is a feature confirmed in the official blog post. We will be able to add koi fish to our decorative fountains in Snowy Escape, making our outdoor spaces feel much more alive with the beauty and grace of nature!
Zen Skill?
There has been a lot of talk about “finding your zen” in the trailers and blog post for Snowy Escape, and the narrator talks about being able to tune out distractions in order to control emotions better. We’re still not entirely sure how this zen aspect is going to function in-game, but this definitely looks like new gameplay we will be able to explore, whether through a skill or some other type of practice.
Respectful Tourism
The narrator talks a lot about being respectful towards Mt. Komorebi’s culture; keeping selfies to a minimum in order to fully experience everything the world has to offer and to be mindful of the rules in place while visiting the bath houses. It makes us wonder if our Sims will be able to go the opposite route and get up to some tourist mischief in Mt. Komorebi? Maybe we’re reaching a little too much here, so we’ll just have to wait and see.
What was your favourite part of the gameplay trailer? Let us know in the comments or come chat with us on social media!
The Sims 4 Snowy Escape comes to PC, Mac, PS4, and Xbox One on November 13th, 2020.
With the reveal of The Sims 4 Snowy Escape gameplay trailer, a whole mountain of new information has been released. In an exclusive livestream, some new information about new deaths and Woohoo locations has been shared.
The Sims 4 Snowy Escape comes with not one but two brand new deaths. One of which makes a return after being featured in earlier The Sims games!
Death by Vending Machine
When an item it stuck and you make an attempt to take it out, it can cost you your life
Death by Falling
When you fall off the cliff during rock climbing there’s a chance it’s not just an injury… Don’t go climbing in icy weather conditions.
But let’s not forget that there are also two brand new Woohoo spots for your Sims to explore! If they are up to the challenge of course.
Woohoo in Hot Springs
You can woohoo in the hot springs in the Onsen Bathhouse or place a hot spring on your lot.
Woohoo in the Ice Cave
During the moutain excursion you can come across an ice cave. It might be sealed and frozen over or it might be available to your Sims.
What do you think of the new death and Woohoo options?
The Sims Team released an interactive map of Mount Komorebi – a new world coming with The Sims 4 Snowy Escape Expansion Pack!
Within the interactive Map they’ve revealed details regarding the 3 new Neighborhoods and Lots within them. We’ve gathered all the information from the Map that you can see down below into a breakdown of all the Lots and Information for each new Neighborhood. Check it out!
Wakaba Neighborhood
Like its namesake, Wakaba is young, new, and bright as the leaves of a tree in early springtime. This small town is up-and-coming in the region, home to beautiful, sleek new homes and an attractive town center featuring Mt. Komorebi’s official mascot: Yamachan. Tourists of all ages can enjoy the Festival of Youth, or simply take in the neighborhood’s natural beauty.
2-5-1 WAKABAMORI
2-4-3 WAKABAMORI
2-4-1 WAKABAMORI
2-4-2 WAKABAMORI (Rental)
HAZAKURA LOUNGE
A swanky hotspot for both locals and tourists, Hazakura Lounge is the perfect place to grab a drink, meet locals, and watch local musicians take the stage.
Festival of Youth
Each neighborhood hosts its own festival! In Wakaba, enjoy the Festival of Youth, where children can join Yamachan on a Voidcritter Hunt. The Festival of Lights in Senbamachi honors the dead with dazzling displays and wishes for the living, while the Festival of Snow in Yukimatsu stuns with snow sculptures and games. Check out festival-exclusive outfits and collectibles from the vending machines.
Senbamachi Neighborhood
Senbamachi, the town of a thousand leaves, is the oldest in the region. Many locals enjoy the town’s connection to nature, especially with the bamboo forests surrounding the town and unique spritely creatures that make a home in their leaves. It’s said that if you walk the local trails long enough, you’re bound to meet the guardians of the trees who reward those who love and respect their dwelling.
6-4-1 HANAMIGAWA
5-3-1 SHINRINYOKU
5-6-1 SHINRINYOKU
IZAKAYA IPPAI Bar
Izakaya Ippai is the perfect place to meet up with friends, play a game of cards, or chat with the locals of Senbamachi.
HANAMIGAWA KOEN Park
Hanamigawa Koen is a beautiful natural space that belongs to everyone! The land was donated to the town by families who wanted to preserve a little bit of the sweeping, surrounding natural beauty in the heart of Senbamachi.
Graveyard
Many Sims pause to mourn or offer a gift in the graveyard while on a hike. And sometimes, just sometimes, Sims might encounter spirits like kodama or other forest spirits! (Just try not to get cursed.)
MOUNTAIN TEMPLE
This beautiful temple inspires many Sims to stop and reflect in its shadow. Swing by on a hike to take a selfie with this landmark or make a wish at the ema board.
BAMBOO FOREST
The bamboo forest is an incredibly scenic destination for Sims on a hike. Listen to the sound of the trees rustling together, and keep an eye out for wildlife like bats, Japanese hornets, and denkimushi. (Make sure to carry spray repellents just in case!)
CLIMBING WALLS
Many Sims start building their mountain climbing skills at the easiest rock wall in Yukimatsu, then visit the course in Senbamachi to continue improving. Good climbers often venture out on a mountain climbing excursion to the peak once they’re comfortable clinging to these cliffsides.
YUKIMATSU Neighborhood
The true beauty of the countryside can be seen from Yukimatsu, named for its snow-covered pines. Located on the slopes of Mt. Komorebi, this area offers gorgeous vacation rentals, a variety of snow sports, untamed wilderness, and a peaceful Onsen Bathhouse getaway. Whether it’s relaxation in a hot spring, seeing the sights of the Snow Festival, or an exhilarating climb to Mt. Komorebi’s highest peak, this year-round snowy wonderland has something for everyone.
5-1-1 KIYOMATSU (Rental)
5-1-2 KIYOMATSU (Rental)
SUTEFANI ONSEN BATHHOUSE
The Sutefani Onsen Bathhouse is the perfect place to unwind after an exciting day on the mountain. The natural hot springs have rejuvenating properties that will get any weary (or bruised!) adventurer back into the action in no time.
GONDOLA
Take this up to the top to reach the trails and start a mountain-climbing excursion to the peak of Mt. Komorebi! It’s much easier than trudging uphill through the snow.
SNOW SLOPES
The snowy slopes at the base of the mountain offer plenty of fun. Stick to the bunny slope for sledding, or choose one of the four different trails at the top of the gondola for skiing and snowboarding. (Most beginners stick to the bunny slope as well while they learn to stay on their feet.)
HIKING TRAILS
Venture out onto the hiking trails in Senbamachi and Yukimatsu to see all the natural beauty that surrounds the town itself. Stop at any of the points of interest or merely take it all in on a mindful walk or energetic stroll.
ScreenRant has revealed some more information about the next update for The Sims 4!
In an exclusive preview The Sims Team confirmed to ScreenRant that the next update for The Sims 4 will allow you to send your Sims to vacation in ANY World. This feature will be functional thanks to the Rental Lots being unlocked for any World now, not just Vacation Worlds.
Mount Komorebi is both a vacation destination world and a residential world. When players take a vacation there, as in other vacation worlds, they will need to stay in a rental property. As part of the free base-game update that comes with this pack, players can now take a vacation to any world, not just the vacation worlds, though rental properties will not be available for families vacationing in the residential worlds right now.
This means that Mount Komorebi won’t be the only exotic place for your Sims to Vacation in. If, for example, you have The Sims 4 Island Living Expansion Pack installed you’ll be able to create your own Rental Lot and send your Sims to vacation in the world of Sulani!
However, the next update won’t let you turn Vacation Worlds like Granite Falls (from Outdoor Retreat) and Selvadorada (from Jungle Adventure) into Residental Worlds.
Sul sul, Simmers! Welcome to Mt. Komorebi! I’m your local guide, and today, we’re going a bit deeper into the world I love so much. You might have seen it on a map or in a video like the one below, but that stuff just scratches the surface, and I can tell you a lot more!
If you’re moving in or on your way for vacation, I’ve got the perfect plan for you.
Wakaba
You’ll get your first view of Mt. Komorebi itself from Wakaba, the neighborhood at the base of the mountain. It’s a beautiful residential area with plenty to do. If it’s your first day in town, it’s good to take it slow and start here. Set the mood with a stroll through the gardens or go for a swim near the waterfall. Remember to return respectful greetings when you receive them, and pay attention to shoe removal signs in genkan entryways.
If you’re traveling with kids, make sure to hit up the Festival of Youth in the main plaza. Kids will love meeting Yamachan, the town mascot, and joining the Voidcritter Hunt. While they’re off doing that, you can check out the vending machine collectibles or try the festival-exclusive character crepes, too!
Oh, and speaking of food… you simply have to try hot pot. Sukiyaki is my favorite, but mostly I enjoy it because it’s perfect for a nice meal together. You can cook it right at the kotatsu table where you’re warm and comfy. Plus, seconds are encouraged! And thirds! Try to stop me from having more than one bowl, I dare you.
Komorebi Fact: Lots of folks like to use chopsticks when they’re eating, but your utensil choice is ultimately up to you. (I just think it just makes picking up maki rolls easier.) And some foods, like yummy taiyaki, you can hold in your hands!
Senbamachi
Once you’ve gotten acclimated, head up the mountain a bit to Senbamachi, meaning Thousand Leaves Town. This more traditional area is set right into nature. It’s idyllic, scenic, and serene. Most of the folks here have learned to live in the moment and take life as it comes. It really encourages people to settle into their emotions and find balance.
My favorite thing to do is gather some friends and take a hike. The sign at the trailhead lays out all the different places you can visit, and there’s so much to see along the way. Once you’ve chosen a destination, take it easy and relax into the moment with each other. The best part about hiking is being together with friends and family. Whether you’re stopping for a photo on the bridge or listening to your voices echo back at you from the cave, it just feels good to bond over the natural wonders around you.
Of course, everyone has different experiences and different Sentiments about things. On the last hike I led, my friend and I were enjoying ourselves before we ran into denkimushi aka electric bugs. She forgot her spray, so she kinda… got zapped. She’s still a bit mad at me for leading her through that area unprepared, but she’ll come around. Probably.
When you finish your hike, whether it’s meditative or energetic, pause for a moment at the Festival of Lights to admire the beauty around you. This tradition helps us remember the dead and celebrate the light. In the evening, there are fireworks, and you can watch the lanterns float along the river. Remember to make a wish for the future at the tanabata tree.
Komorebi Fact: Being aware of yourself and the present moment is super important here. Some people like mindful walks, while others prefer relaxing to traditional Japanese folk music. Find whatever works for you to center yourself.
Yukimatsu
Lots of people come to vacation in Yukimatsu especially. (That’s where all the snow is!) There are a few swanky rentals for out-of-towners since it’s right next to all the action, but that doesn’t mean you won’t find locals here too. Who could stay away from the onsen bathhouse and the snow sports?
I grew up learning to snowboard on the bunny slope here. Of course, I spent a lot of time wiping out at first, but now you can find me up on the mountain for at least a few hours a day! It just became part of my Lifestyle as I made it a habit over time. Now, I can’t imagine a day where I’m not strapped onto my board.
But don’t be intimidated! Skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels are welcome, whether you’re on the bunny slope or one of the four bigger trails. And if that scares you, no problem! Try sledding, too. You can go alone or pair up with another Sim to catch a little air. My mom used to take me when I was a toddler, and it’s one of my fondest memories.
So take some time to have a little fun here. Learn how to start rock climbing at the beginner’s climbing route, or explore a cave on a snowy hike. And once you’re done, and probably chilled to the bone, head over to the onsen for the most relaxing experience in the world. I’m not exaggerating. Plan to spend a few hours here at least. Once you slip into that water, everything kind of… floats away. All your stresses, your fears, your injuries… none of it matters as much in the soothing heat.
Komorebi Fact: We all have our own Lifestyle, and Mt. Komorebi offers something for everyone. Even just looking around in Yukimatsu, you can see Outdoorsy Sims enjoying a hike, Workaholic salarymen glued to their computers, Junk Food Fiends grabbing snacks from vending machines, and Energetic Sims (like me!) flying down the mountain. That which makes you happiest may be just around the corner.
The Summit
I hope you took a moment to check out that beginner’s climbing course in Yukimatsu! If you want to head up to the peak of Mt. Komorebi, you’re going to need those skills. Group excursions usually start at the onsen, but once you get out of that water, you’re in for the trip of a lifetime. Dress warmly and bring a few snacks to tide you over.
Take the gondola up to the top of the ski slopes, where you’ll find the first climbing obstacle. After that, there’s a series of challenges awaiting you. If you’re new to the sport, take the opportunity to rest at the base camps along the way, but if you’ve got the experience, try to explore a little! There are caves and other surprises on the way up. (For instance, you might find a secluded little spot for a quick Woo-Hoo up there—something about life-and-death danger really gets some Sims going. 😉)
Don’t undertake this excursion lightly, though! The weather gets worse the higher you climb, and you may end up caught in a thundersnow storm. Yes, you read that right. They’re intense blizzards that take place in the middle of a thunderstorm. And with the lightning and the booming and the wind… it gets really dangerous while you’re clinging to the side of a cliff for dear life. And if you fall from these heights… it doesn’t bear thinking about. Just be careful.
Finally, once you reach the top, everything seems to stop. I can tell you from experience that standing on that peak, staring out at the other mountains and a sky full of clouds below me, everything makes sense. The people with you make sense. Your journey makes sense. And this town, this world, with its beauty and excitement and peace, makes the most sense of all.
When can I expect you?
The Sims™ 4 Snowy Escape Expansion Pack* arrives on November 13, 2020, at midnight in your region on Origin (for Mac and PC) and at 10 a.m. PT for Steam, Xbox One, and PlayStation®4! Preorders are open now.
Will you be following the itinerary above or making you own? Check out our interactive map of Mt. Komorebi and take the quiz to perfect your plans!
Connect with your fellow players on The Sims Forums; catch up with us on Twitter and Instagram; like us on Facebook; and subscribe to our YouTube channel. You can also sign up for The Sims 4 newsletter to get all the news as soon as it’s announced. We have a lot planned in the next few weeks as the launch date nears, and we want you to join us for all of it!
*REQUIRES THE SIMS 4 (SOLD SEPARATELY) AND ALL GAME UPDATES. FOR PC, SEE MINIMUM SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PACK.
With the announcement of The Sims 4 Snowy Escape Expansion Pack The Sims Team also revealed that the pack will be bringing a new feature to the table called Lifestyles.
They’ve briefly explained what the feature will offer, saying:
The Sims 4 Snowy Escape also introduces Lifestyles and Sentiments features, adding more depth to Sims’ personalities and relationships. For the first time, up to 16 Lifestyles will manifest in response to a Sim’s actions and habits, changing their behaviors significantly more than Create a Sim traits as they reflect a Sim’s lived experiences. Lifestyles manifest in response to your Sim’s actions and habits, changing their behaviors appropriately.
The Lifestyles Feature has been described as being more significant than the CAS traits considering that they reflect something that your Sims have already lived through.
In the latest gameplay trailer they’ve given a first look at the Lifestyles Feature and what some of the Lifestyles will be. Keep in mind that there are 16 Lifestyles total and that not all of them will be visible to you right away (hidden).
Some of the revealed lifestyles include: Sedentary, Energetic, Close Knit, People Person, Indoorsy, Outdoorsy, Junk Food Fiend, Health Food Fiend.
The official blog post has revealed an additional Lifestyle that wasn’t shown in the trailer: Workaholic.
The Sims Team released a brand new Gameplay Trailer for The Sims 4 Snowy Escape Expansion Pack. Within the trailer there were plenty of awesome frames shown of the new world, gameplay and items included that you might’ve missed.
We’ve taken all the important frames and put them in the gallery down below for you to check out. Simply click on the screens of your choice to zoom in and spot all the details!
The Summit
