The best Sims 4 extensions

Over time, The Sims 4 has received numerous expansion packs. We’ve tested them all thoroughly and picked out the very best ones for you.

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No other life simulation game has likely ever been as popular as The Sims 4. Not just because of the vibrant and diverse base game, which puts your Sims in exciting – and often bizarre – situations, but also thanks to the many, many expansion packs. There are 18 in total, adding seasons, pets, new careers, and more to enrich the overall experience.

We've picked the ones that performed the best – because of their rich content, impressive changes, or simply because they make the game much more fun.

High School Years (2022)

High School Years adds an entertaining and nostalgic twist to The Sims 4, letting players relive the ups and downs of teenage life. This expansion introduces a brand-new high school world where Sims can attend classes, join clubs, go to prom, and navigate the social struggles of adolescence. It also includes gameplay features like class assignments, student gossip, and parent-teacher conferences – offering a deeper insight into teen life. If you want to experience the highs and lows of high school all over again, this is the perfect expansion for you.

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Get Together (2015)

Get Together puts a strong focus on social interaction and community by letting Sims create or join clubs based on shared interests and hobbies. It enriches the social gameplay by allowing players to host group activities and events such as dance parties, BBQs, or even secret societies. The European-inspired world of Windenburg adds even more charm, offering stunning locations for your Sims to explore. With its emphasis on group bonding and friendships, Get Together is perfect for players who love building meaningful relationships between their Sims.

Cottage Living (2021)

Cottage Living brings your Sims back to a simpler, rural lifestyle filled with farming, gardening, and cozy cottagecore vibes. Players can raise animals like chickens, cows, and rabbits, grow their own vegetables, and participate in local fairs to show off cooking and farming skills. This expansion adds nostalgic charm to The Sims 4 with lush landscapes, idyllic cottages, and a focus on self-sufficiency. If you’re looking for a peaceful, nature-connected experience, Cottage Living offers a perfect escape to the countryside.

Snowy Escape (2020)

Snowy Escape transports your Sims to the scenic mountain town of Mt. Komorebi, where they can enjoy snow, winter sports, and a unique Japan-inspired culture. This expansion introduces skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and a compelling storyline about family, work-life balance, and cultural discovery. With a new freelance career path and a strong focus on wellness, Snowy Escape offers refreshing variety for Sims who enjoy outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.

For Rent (2024)

For Rent expands The Sims 4 with new opportunities for entrepreneurship and personal passion projects. Players can now open their own businesses – from launching a boutique to running an art studio – giving Sims the chance to pursue careers that require both creativity and management skills. The expansion also introduces a wide range of hobbies from crafting to gardening, allowing Sims to express themselves and discover new pastimes. With new crafting stations and interactive objects, there are more ways than ever for personal growth and making money in-game. If you want to add a creative, entrepreneurial twist to your gameplay, this expansion is ideal.

Cats & Dogs (2017)

Cats & Dogs is one of the most beloved expansions for The Sims 4, placing pets at the heart of the game. Players can adopt cats and dogs and even run a veterinary clinic to care for animals. This pack adds new features like customizable pet traits, pet outfits, and the ability to teach pets unique skills. It’s an absolute must for animal lovers, as it brings joy and companionship to your Sims’ lives in a way only pets can. Whether you’re running a pet business or just enjoying the company of a furry friend, Cats & Dogs brings endless happiness to your game world.

City Living (2016)

City Living takes your Sims to the vibrant city of San Myshuno, where they can live in apartments, attend urban festivals, and experience the hustle and bustle of city life. This expansion brings a lively city with diverse neighborhoods, each offering unique cultural experiences. Sims can take up new careers in fields like fashion, politics, and social media, and join activities like karaoke, food festivals, and art shows. City life also introduces new challenges like noisy neighbors and cramped living spaces – adding realism to the urban experience.

Life & Death (2024)

Life & Death introduces a powerful new dimension to The Sims 4, exploring the cycle of life from birth to death. This expansion brings gameplay centered around the afterlife, allowing Sims to experience death and interact with spirits in meaningful ways. Players can guide Sims through life stages, celebrate major milestones, and uncover supernatural secrets. With features like reincarnation and ghostly encounters, this pack offers a unique perspective on mortality and adds rich, emotional depth to the game.

Seasons (2018)

Seasons is one of the most essential expansions for The Sims 4, adding realistic weather patterns and seasonal holidays. Players can enjoy the beauty of all four seasons – from snowy winters to blooming springs – and celebrate classic holidays like Christmas, Halloween, and Harvestfest. This expansion also changes gameplay by requiring Sims to adapt to different weather conditions, grow seasonal plants, and plan special events. Seasons is a must-have for anyone looking to enhance realism and depth, thanks to its detailed design and dynamic seasonal changes.

 (Image source: EA)