Installing Sims 2 Custom Content

This tutorial is to teach the absolute beginner to Sims how to download custom content and make it appear in their game. Although we will make this as non-technical as possible, you will still need some very basic computer knowledge. If you don’t know how to create a new folder or cut and paste items, please learn how before you start downloading - it will save you a few headaches!

These instructions are for a computer running the Windows XP operating system. All screen captures are from IE version 7. Click on any thumbnail to view a larger image.

The step by step walkthrough will take you through preparations, downloading, installation and finding the creations in the game. Follow it closely, and you shouldn’t have any problem. If, however, you follow it word-for-word and things don’t quite work out, there’s also a troubleshooting section to refer to.

Quick Checklist

Before you dig too far into this guide, take a brief moment and make sure you have not done any of those common mistakes first.

• Not putting the downloaded creations in the correct folder(s)
  Unless you place your downloads in the Downloads folder (or the appropriate folder inside the Sims2 folder) they will NOT show up in your game (see part 2).
• Incorrect spelling of the Downloads folder
  The Downloads folder must be spelled with a capital D and the rest in small letters. No other variation will work in your game (see part 1).
• Wrong location for the Downloads folder
  The Downloads folder must be at "C:\Documents and Settings\-your name-\My Documents\EA Games\The Sims 2", nowhere else will it work (see part 1).
• Did you download any necessary meshes?
  If an item was created that requires a custom mesh, you must have that mesh in your game before the recolors for that item will show and be playable (see part 2).
• Missing the required expansion pack(s)?
  Make sure you have the expansion pack(s) required for the file, they are listed in the item description on the site.
• Are you looking in the right place in-game?
  Make sure you read the artist's description about the creation. Sometimes it is not located in the obvious category in-game (see part 4).