The Sims 4: Best Expansions

The Sims isn’t one for skimping out on jam-packed expansions, as made clear by the series’ history of producing more content than it knows what to do with. Its fourth instalment isn’t all that different, with a plethora of its own add-ons and post-launch Stuff packs to boot. And it’s because of the sheer volume of said material that’s available, that anyone who’s never traipsed through the life simulation phenomenon will no doubt have a tough time in trying to figure out which extensions are actually worth installing. But that’s just The Sims 4, and it goes without saying that if you’re after something that boasts more cosmetics and iterations than the average IP — then you’ve come to the right place.

Anyway, with Electronic Arts prepping the red carpet for its upcoming Horse Ranch DLC, we thought we’d rustle up a list to share which of the countless add-ons are worth bolting on to your base game in 2023. Keen to learn more? Here’s what we’d suggest downloading the next time you’re in the mood to boost your Sims’ social lives.

5. Island Living

It’s all well and good being able to flesh out your home with all the bells and whistles that come tied in with any run-of-the-mill Stuff pack, but there is really only so much you can squeeze out of them before they start to decompose and linger on the tongue. Fortunately, expansions like Island Living exist, which, for what they’re worth, helps boost the overall gameplay experience by transporting existing Sims to whole other dimensions—biomes in which new career opportunities and social interactions await.

Island Living is exactly what it says it is on the tin: an expansion that lets you take your Sims to a remote island that’s rich in sun-glazed spells and nautical panoramas. As a conservationist, you will have the power to shape the economy as you see fit, either by taking on odd jobs, or branching out to become a diver, lifeguard, or merfolk translator. And yes, there are in fact a number of mermaids who occupy the shores. Question is, how will you involve them in your efforts to conserve peace and stability? In Island Living, the world is yours for the taking.

4. Discover University

If you’d much rather have the opportunity to experience good ole fashioned college life with all the loans and sachet noodles to boot, then you’d be better off installing Discover University. Like Island Living, the aforementioned expansion adds on a whole new biome for your Sims to explore and use as a general stepping stone towards a brighter future. But that’s more of an afterthought here, as the bulk of the experience in Discover University is mostly set around campus living and all the extracurricular activities that go with it. Learning how to hacky sack, being the most obvious port of call, of course.

As well as having to learn how to survive on ramen noodles and power naps, Sims will also need to attend local clubs, participate in seasonal events, and even study to master the art of their chosen profession. So, clearly a lot more than your average half-baked DLC.

3. City Living

If you’ve been dying to have that post-Urbz itch scratched since forever, then you’re sure to find comfort with City Living, an expansion that lets you take your Sims away from the suburbs and towards the glass capital. As either a social media influencer or critic, you Sims will finally have the chance to embark on a slew of new adventures from within the confines of a bustling community hub. And not just opportunities that will further advance their careers, but ones that’ll also open up new doors for lifelong friendships, seasonal excursions, and flexible tenancies.

City Living isn’t for everyone, true. That said, if you’ve grown tired of playing out the same old routines in the suburban districts, then you’ll definitely want to consider upping sticks and planting roots in an evergreen metropolis that never sleeps nor falters. There’s plenty to unpack here, and it goes without saying that, as far as fleshed out DLC goes, City Living is hands down one of the beefiest of the bunch.

2. Cottage Living

And then there’s Cottage Living, an expansion that removes the hustle and bustle of everyday city life and reverts back to the simple pleasures and pastimes. It’s a far cry from your typical Sims neighbourhood, for sure, but it’s also in receipt of one of the most idyllic areas in the entire franchise: Henford-on-Bagley, a remote village inspired by the British countryside and communal life. It’s quaint, charming, and oh so popular with those in need of respite.

Country Living includes a lot of things, though its bread and butter is undoubtedly the building features that it brings to the table. With its unique and elegantly rustic aesthetic, fans of the series can finally build the countryside getaway of their dreams. Oh, and not to mention pet the local llamas. That’s enough of an incentive to pack up and move out to Henford-on-Bagley, for sure.

1. Seasons

If you’ve grown tired of the endless summer spells that befall the neighbourhood, then perhaps it’s time to invest in Seasons, an expansion that—surprise surprise—alters the weather patterns and introduces seasonal changes. Instead of having an infinite supply of heatwaves, there are actual milestones to look forward to, which of course includes the likes of Christmas and other season-appropriate holidays. What’s more, there’s also a calendar that lets you create your own special days, which can pull the whole community together to celebrate an occasion of your design.

Seasonal events aside, the expansion also includes a whole new catalog of cosmetics for your Sims, decor for your home, and a whole variety of accessories to help boost your Sims’ moods and attributes. So, if you’re interested in switching up the day-to-day theme and incorporating a calendar year that’s both realistic and ever-changing, then be sure to bolt on Seasons the moment you build your family tree.

So, what’s your take? Will you be adding any of the above expansion packs to your Sims 4 framework this year? Let us know your thoughts over on our socials here.