The Sims 4 on Windows: Install Guide, Tips and Features

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The Sims 4 official logoThe Sims 4 on Windows

Ready to play with life in 2025? Picture yourself crafting unique Sims and dream homes. You can download The Sims 4 base game free on your Windows 10 or 11 PC via Steam or Microsoft Store, enhanced with Patch 1.105 and tons of DLC.

Released by Maxis and EA on September 2, 2014, this life sim classic boasts ‘Very Positive’ Steam reviews by March 2025, with Patch 1.105.332 (February 25, 2025) adding fixes and polish, per Steam.

This guide covers installing The Sims 4 on Windows, its key features, and tips for PC beginners. Share your wildest Sim story in the comments, or contact us for help.

How to Install The Sims 4 on Windows 11 and 10

To play The Sims 4 on your Windows PC, download it via Steam or Microsoft Store. Follow the steps below:

  1. Method 1: Steam
    1. Visit the Steam page: Steam.
    2. Click Play Game (base game is free as of March 2025).
    3. Sign into your Steam account (or create one if needed).
    4. Click Install in your Steam Library.
    5. Wait for the download to finish (up to 26 GB, more with DLC).
    6. Launch the game from your Steam Library or desktop shortcut.
  2. Method 2: Microsoft Store
    1. Visit the Microsoft Store page: Microsoft Store.
    2. Click Get (base game is free as of March 2025) or use EA Play.
    3. Sign into your Microsoft account (or create one).
    4. Click Install via the Xbox app (download it if needed).
    5. Wait for the download to finish (up to 26 GB, more with DLC).
    6. Launch the game from the Xbox app or Start menu.

Quick Tip: 💡 Start with a small house, it’s easier to manage!

Get The Sims 4 via Steam | Get via Microsoft Store


What is The Sims 4 About?

The Sims 4, released in 2014 by Maxis and EA, is a life simulation game for Windows 10 and 11, where you shape virtual lives.

Core Gameplay: Create Sims, build homes, and guide their stories through careers, relationships, and endless customization.

Key Features

  • Sim creation
  • Home building
  • Life control
  • World exploration
  • Endless variety

Why Play The Sims 4 on Windows?

It’s your sandbox. Windows 10 and 11 users get free base gameplay, vibrant mods, and fresh updates in 2025.

Tips for PC Beginners in The Sims 4

New to The Sims 4 on PC? Here are five tips to thrive:

  1. Set Keys: Remap rotate to RMB in Options > Controls, it’s smoother.
  2. Boost FPS: Lower sim detail to Medium in Graphics, big families lag.
  3. Earn Cash: Paint early (easel > left-click), simoleons stack up.
  4. Build Easy: Use premade rooms (build mode > gallery), saves time.
  5. Stay Happy: Fulfill needs (bottom UI), moods drive everything.

The Sims 4 Gameplay Screenshots

The Sims 4 Gameplay Video

The Sims 4 PC Requirements for Windows

Minimum:

  • OS: Windows 10 64-bit (version 1909 or later)
  • CPU: Intel Core i3-3220 3.3 GHz or AMD Ryzen 3 1200
  • RAM: 4 GB
  • Storage: 26 GB free
  • GPU: NVIDIA GeForce 6600 or AMD Radeon X1300
  • VRAM: 128 MB
  • DirectX: Version 11
  • Internet: Broadband for updates

Recommended:

  • OS: Windows 11 64-bit
  • CPU: Intel Core i5 (4 cores) or AMD Ryzen 5
  • RAM: 8 GB
  • Storage: 51 GB free
  • GPU: NVIDIA GTX 650 or AMD Radeon HD 7750
  • VRAM: 1 GB
  • DirectX: Version 11

The Sims 4 on Windows FAQ

  • Is it free? Yes, the base game is free on Steam and Microsoft Store.
  • Can I play offline? Yes, after initial setup.
  • Does it run on Windows 11? Yes, fully optimized for Windows 11.
  • What’s the download size? 26 GB base, up to 51 GB with DLC.

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