Using Sims 4 Mods

With the addition of Twisted Mexi, TM to the Sims Resource, a lot of Simmers are rushing to download ALL of TM’s Mods.  This is absolutely awesome as this allows for so a lot of new possibilities in our games! However, there are some things you need to know about Sims 4 Mods.  Don’t worry I am here to help.  This guide is going to be for basic mods users and we are going to start nice and slow.

What is a Mod?

So we are going to set definitions right here… Mods are modifications of a game, essentially changing how a game or item behaves.  Custom Content is a mesh or skin of how something looks or texture. (hair, clothes, makeup, shoes, objects, etc).

Atlantis Pose pack by Beto_ae0

Using Mods – the Basics

1. Start Small – don’t go download everything all at once.  Download a couple mods, then install them and load up your Sims.  Make sure everything works before installing more.  If there are issues you will have a better idea of where to start.
2. Read the Mods’ Instructions – this may sound completely obvious, but I can’t tell you the number of times people ask how to install a mod. The artists take a great time in developing guides.  TM has both written instructions and video instructions for his mods. and you can find them HERE.
3. Check for Game & Mod Updates – every modders favorite day… PATCH DAY! Will today be the day to break all their mods? Well… maybe. Each time there is an update to the game modders may have to make fixes to their mods.  Sometimes these are easy quick fixes, and other times not.  It is best to just bookmark the creators’ mods and check for updates.  Of course, if you are a VIP TSR member this becomes much easier!
4. Organize your Mods – This helps with troubleshooting and is important for identifying CC for crediting as well.  TM has a really nice organizing video that you can find HERE.  Sadly, I am not following my own advice my folders need some work…

Installing Mods

Each mod will have specific instructions to install the mod.  Sometimes mods will have a feature that will place the mod in the proper folder.  If this is not the case just review the instructions.  Basically, you want the mod in script or package file in the Mods folder of Sims 4 folder.  This folder is usually in Documents>Electronic Arts>The Sims 4>Mods.  If you do not have a Mods folder you will need to make one as the game reads the mods in this location.  Before you can use mods in the game they must be enabled in the Game Options of your Sims 4 game.  The mod settings can be found in the Other section of the Game Options menu.  All you do is check the box that says Enable Custom Content and Mods and Script Mods Allowed (if you download script mods).  Click Apply to change the settings and then restart the game.

Functional Objects

There are several objects available on The Sims Resource that have functional uses other than basic item use. For example, RAVASHEEN’s Scent to be Oil diffuser is not just a decorative item.  This item allows for your Sims to pick a fragrance and will give your Sim a moodlet buff based on the selected fragrance of the oils.  There are of course many more items of this type of mod available at The Sims Resource.  To find more all you have to do is check under the Mod category on the main download page.

Object Script mod by RAVASHEEN

The OG Bunk Beds

Long before the update of EA bunk beds, there was a creator named RAVASHEEN who published on February 12, 2020, a functional bunk bed series here at The Sims Resource.  This bunk bed series comes with multiple items that can be mixed and matched together.  Also before the EA release of bunk beds, a creator named PandaSamaCC created more bunk beds and uploaded them onto The Sims Resource on January 1, 2021, and a toddler bunk bed on February 10, 2021.

Toddler Bunkbed Object Script mod by PandaSamaCC

The T.O.O.L. Mod by Twisted Mexi

Ever wonder how builders get everything to fit together so perfectly?  Well, they are most likely using the T.O.O.L. Mod by TM. T.O.O.L. stands for Takes Objects Off Lot.  This mod allows players to build in the non-buildable portions of the world and sooo much more.  Not only does the T.O.O.L. mod allow you to build in the non-buildable areas but it also allows you to manipulate objects.  This manipulation includes height, location, rotation, and general placement of the items.  You want to have an upside-down house? with the T.O.O.L mod, you can!  You want a toilet bowl themed garden… you can have that too! (I am really 100% serious) The T.O.O.L. mod does have a learning curve but you can find a tutorial HERE from Twisted Mexi.

Other Mods at The Sims Resource

The Sims Resource has loads more Sims 4 Mods available and we will highlight more another time.  Other mods include The CAS Background changer, poses, loading screens, traits, CAS presets, and more script mods.  There is quite a variety here.

Pose set by Couquett

Summary

As a Simmer who uses many mods, mods are a very needed component of my game.  Without mods, it would be very difficult for me to capture images and review CC as efficiently.  For those who remember Sims 3 before poses became a thing know exactly the struggle, I am referring to.  Mods definitely speed up my process and make my gameplay more enjoyable.  I hope you find this information on the basics of using Sim 4 mods to be helpful and informative and do not worry will cover more about mods at a later time!  Happy Simming!