The Sims 4, a beloved life simulation game, has evolved significantly since its launch ten years ago. Various features that players enjoy today were not available when the game first hit the shelves. Let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit ten major Sims 4 features that you probably forgot weren’t available at launch.
1. Basements
Basements provide additional space for activities and storage in Sims 4 homes. However, this feature wasn’t available until a patch released later in the game’s lifecycle, much to the delight of players seeking more spacious building options.
2. Pools
Pools were a core element in previous Sims games, so their absence in The Sims 4 at launch was surprising. They were reintroduced through an update, adding a much-requested leisure and design component back into the game.
3. Toddlers
The Sims 4 initially launched with only two life stages: babies and children, completely skipping toddlers. After ardent requests from fans, the toddler life stage was added with a free update, enriching family gameplay significantly.
4. CAS Stories
Create-A-Sim (CAS) Stories is a feature that allows players to answer questions to determine their Sims’ characteristics. This feature, which adds depth to characters’ backgrounds, was not present at launch.
5. Terrain Manipulation
The ability to manipulate terrain was another missing feature at launch. This tool allows players to sculpt the land, creating dynamic landscapes and custom lots, which became available through a later update.
6. Ladders
Ladders add vertical movement options within houses, especially useful for tiny homes and multistory builds. Surprisingly, this feature was missing at launch but was added in an update, expanding building possibilities.
7. Stair Customization
The original version of The Sims 4 did not allow customizing stairs. An update introduced the ability to tweak, rotate, and configure stairs, giving builders more creative freedom.
8. New Careers
Numerous careers have been introduced post-launch, including freelancer roles, conservationist, and education careers. Each new career has added more diversity and opportunities for Sims to pursue their ambitions.
9. Rental Lots
Initially, players couldn’t create rental properties in non-vacation worlds. This feature was later introduced, enabling vacation-like getaways in traditional worlds and enhancing gameplay variety.
10. Freelancer Career
Freelance work, allowing Sims to take on gigs in various fields such as writing, programming, and digital art, was added remotely. This career track provided flexibility and new opportunities for earning Simoleons.
Conclusion
The Sims 4 has undergone substantial growth, with many features being added long after its initial release. These enhancements have made the game richer and more engaging for the community. Revisiting these developments underscores how much the game has improved, thanks in no small part to player feedback.
