How Much Space Do You Really Need for The Sims 4 and All Those Packs?

The Sims 4, in its base form, is a relatively modest game when it comes to storage. However, once you start adding Expansion Packs, Game Packs, Stuff Packs, and Kits, the storage footprint grows significantly. The short answer? You should realistically aim for at least 100GB of free space to comfortably house The Sims 4 and a reasonable collection of its downloadable content (DLC), including space for custom content (CC) and saved games. However, if you plan on owning everything, you’ll want closer to 150-200GB or more depending on the amount of CC you use. This guide will break down why, and give you all the information you need to ensure a smooth Simming experience.

Understanding The Base Game’s Requirements

The official minimum requirements for The Sims 4 state a paltry 25GB of free space. While technically true for just the base game, this is a highly misleading figure in today’s gaming landscape. This number doesn’t account for updates, let alone any extra content. The reality is that the base game itself now occupies closer to 15-20GB after updates.

The Expanding Universe of Expansion Packs and DLC

This is where things get interesting, and where the storage requirements really start to climb. Each Expansion Pack, Game Pack, Stuff Pack, and Kit adds new content, features, and assets to the game, all of which require storage space.

• Expansion Packs: These are the largest content drops, adding significant new gameplay mechanics, worlds, and items. Each typically adds 5-10GB to the game’s total size.
• Game Packs: Smaller in scope than Expansion Packs, Game Packs introduce new themes and gameplay features, usually adding 2-5GB each.
• Stuff Packs: These packs focus on adding new clothing, furniture, and decor items. They’re the smallest of the major DLC types, generally adding 1-2GB each.
• Kits: The latest addition to the Sims 4 DLC family. These add new fashion, build items, and CAS content. These generally add less than 1GB each.

When you add all these up, owning all available DLC can easily double or triple the base game’s storage footprint.

The Custom Content Factor

Custom Content (CC) is user-created content that enhances the Sims 4 experience. It can range from new hairstyles and clothing to furniture, build mode objects, and even entire custom worlds. The impact of CC on storage space is entirely dependent on how much you download and install. It’s very easy to download several GBs worth of CC in a small amount of time. Be aware that CC can significantly increase the overall storage demands of your game.

Beyond Storage: RAM and Performance

While this article focuses on storage, it’s crucial to remember that RAM (Random Access Memory) is equally important for smooth gameplay. The minimum requirement for The Sims 4 is 4GB of RAM, but 8GB is highly recommended, and 16GB is ideal, especially if you plan on running multiple packs and CC. Insufficient RAM can lead to lag, stuttering, and even crashes.

Solid State Drives (SSDs) vs. Hard Disk Drives (HDDs)

While storage space is the primary focus, the type of storage also matters. Solid State Drives (SSDs) offer significantly faster loading times and overall performance compared to traditional Hard Disk Drives (HDDs). Installing The Sims 4 on an SSD is highly recommended for a smoother and more responsive gaming experience. If you’re serious about enjoying The Sims 4, invest in an SSD, even if it’s just for the game and your operating system.

Putting it All Together

So, how much space do you need? Let’s break it down:

• Bare Minimum (Base Game Only): 25GB (though realistically, expect closer to 20GB for the current updated base game)
• Base Game + a Few Packs: 50-75GB
• Base Game + Most Packs + Some CC: 100-150GB
• Base Game + All Packs + Significant CC: 150-250GB+

These are just estimates, of course. Your actual storage requirements may vary depending on the specific packs you own and the amount of CC you install. It’s always better to overestimate than underestimate, especially when dealing with digital downloads.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is 128GB Enough for Sims 4?

A 128GB drive is tight, but technically possible for the base game and maybe a few smaller packs. However, it won’t leave much room for anything else, including other games, programs, or your operating system. This amount of storage is also very limiting regarding custom content.

2. Is 256GB Enough for Sims 4 With All Expansions?

A 256GB drive is a much more comfortable option, especially if you’re selective about the packs you install and don’t use excessive amounts of CC. It should be enough to house the game and all expansions, but manage your storage carefully.

3. Is 500GB Enough for Sims 4?

Yes, a 500GB drive is generally considered sufficient for The Sims 4 and all its expansions, with room to spare for other games and programs. This is a good middle-ground for most players.

4. Is 1TB Enough for Sims 4?

Absolutely! A 1TB drive provides ample storage space for The Sims 4, all its expansions, a large collection of custom content, and plenty of other games and programs. You shouldn’t run into space issues anytime soon.

5. How Much RAM Do I Need for Sims 4?

The minimum RAM requirement is 4GB, but 8GB is highly recommended for smoother gameplay. For the best experience, especially with multiple packs and CC, 16GB is ideal.

6. Will an SSD Improve Sims 4 Performance?

Yes, definitely. Installing The Sims 4 on an SSD will significantly improve loading times, reduce stuttering, and provide a more responsive gaming experience.

7. How Big is the Base Game of Sims 4 in 2024?

The base game of The Sims 4 currently takes up about 15-20GB of storage space.

8. How Much Does Sims 4 Cost With All Expansion Packs?

Purchasing all The Sims 4 DLC can cost several hundred dollars (USD), often exceeding the price of the base game by a significant margin. Sales and bundles can help reduce the overall cost. To see how games influence learning and society, check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org.

9. Why Does Sims 4 Take Up So Much Space?

The Sims 4 has a large amount of assets, with many packs installed the game is huge. It’s normal for the game to need a lot of space.

10. How Much Storage Do I Need to Update Sims 4?

The Sims 4 update is variable, it can be 20 GB, but other times more.

11. Is 64GB Enough for Sims?

The most pressing issue is the storage: 64 GB wouldn’t even be enough for all of Sims 4 and Windows, let alone anything else you might want to install (or your saves and other game-related files, for that matter).

12. Is 512 GB good for Sims 4?

@simkreator A 512 GB SSD is more than enough for Sims 4 and all the custom content you could ever use.

13. Is 1tb a lot of storage for Sims 4?

You should be totally fine. I had up to 6gb of cc with a 16 ram and 1tb. By no means I encourage you to have 6gb of cc, the game does get a little bit slower but not less that 60fps.

14. Can my laptop run Sims 4?

It’s a similar trend for the required CPU – only a Core 2 Duo E4300 or Athlon 64 X2 4000+ is needed to pass the minimum CPU test. This means that pretty much any modern desktop or laptop can get The Sims 4 up and running if you’re willing to turn down some graphics settings.

15. How big is Sims 4 storage?

Storage: 26 GB available space.

Conclusion

In summary, while the base game of The Sims 4 may seem manageable in terms of storage, the addition of expansion packs, game packs, stuff packs, kits, and custom content can quickly balloon the game’s overall size. Aim for at least 100GB of free space, preferably on an SSD, and ensure you have sufficient RAM (8GB or more) for optimal performance. Happy Simming!