Can You Bundle High School Years in The Sims 4? A Comprehensive Guide
The short answer is no, you cannot currently bundle the High School Years expansion pack in The Sims 4. This is a common question among Simmers looking to maximize their savings when expanding their gameplay experience. Let’s delve into why this is the case and explore other bundling options, along with a plethora of information about Sims 4 packs and bundling in general.
Understanding Sims 4 Bundling
What is Bundling in The Sims 4?
Bundling in The Sims 4 allows players to purchase multiple Downloadable Content (DLC) packs – specifically an Expansion Pack, a Game Pack, and a Stuff Pack – together at a discounted price. This is a great way to enhance your game without breaking the bank. The bundling system is designed to give players flexibility in choosing the content that best suits their playstyle.
Why Can’t I Bundle High School Years?
The Sims 4 has a general rule regarding bundling: the newest Expansion Packs are typically not immediately available for bundling. This is a common practice by EA to maintain the initial sales value of newly released content. The timeframe for when a pack becomes available for bundling can vary, but it’s usually several months after its initial release.
What Packs Can I Bundle?
Typically, you can bundle packs that have been out for a while. The bundling system lets you pick one item from each category:
- Expansion Packs: These are the largest additions to the game, adding significant new features, worlds, and gameplay mechanics. Think of packs like “Seasons,” “Cats & Dogs,” or “City Living.”
- Game Packs: Game Packs offer substantial new gameplay themes and experiences, often focusing on specific activities or storylines. Examples include “Parenthood,” “Spa Day,” and “Outdoor Retreat.”
- Stuff Packs: Stuff Packs primarily add new items, clothing, and build/buy objects to enhance your Sims’ lifestyles and homes. Examples include “Tiny Living,” “Laundry Day,” and “Movie Hangout.”
Tips for Maximizing Your Sims 4 Purchases
Keep an Eye on Sales
EA frequently runs sales on The Sims 4 packs across various platforms like Origin (EA app), Steam, PlayStation Store, and Xbox Marketplace. Waiting for a sale can significantly reduce the cost of individual packs or even bundles, even though the newest packs are unlikely to be included.
EA Play Subscription
Consider subscribing to EA Play. This service often gives you access to a selection of Sims 4 packs, including some Expansion Packs, at no additional cost beyond the subscription fee. It’s a great way to try out different packs before committing to a full purchase. Additionally, EA Play members often receive a discount on Sims 4 content.
Check Third-Party Retailers
Sometimes, third-party retailers offer deals on Sims 4 packs that may not be available directly through EA. Always ensure that the retailer is legitimate before making a purchase.
Understanding the Value of High School Years
What Does High School Years Offer?
Despite not being bundle-able (yet!), the High School Years Expansion Pack brings a lot to the table. It allows your teen Sims to experience high school life, complete with attending classes, joining extracurricular activities like cheerleading and football, forming friendships, and navigating the drama of teenage relationships. The pack also introduces a new world, Copperdale, which includes the high school, a boba tea shop, and a thrift store.
Is High School Years Worth It?
Many players find the High School Years pack to be a worthwhile addition, citing the engaging gameplay, new customization options, and the nostalgia factor of reliving high school. However, it’s important to consider whether the themes and activities align with your preferred playstyle. If you enjoy storytelling and focusing on the lives of your teen Sims, this pack is likely to be a great fit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Sims 4 High School Years an expansion pack?
Yes, The Sims 4: High School Years is the twelfth Expansion Pack released for The Sims 4 franchise.
2. When was The Sims 4: High School Years released?
It was released on July 28, 2022.
3. Can you still build a bundle in Sims 4?
Yes, you can create a bundle that includes one Expansion Pack, one Game Pack, and one Stuff Pack, as long as you don’t already own all eligible packs of any one type.
4. Why can’t I bundle packs in Sims 4?
You might not see the “Bundle & Save” option if you already own all the available packs of one type (Expansion, Game, or Stuff). Also, the newest packs (like High School Years and often the most recent Game Pack) are typically not available for bundling immediately.
5. How do I enroll in High School in The Sims 4?
With the High School Years expansion pack installed, teen Sims are automatically enrolled in High School. Unlike University, you don’t need to manually enroll them.
6. Can Sims get expelled in Sims 4 High School Years?
Yes, Sims can get expelled from high school if they accumulate 3 strikes (a negative score of -3) due to misbehavior. Re-enrolling doesn’t reset this tracker, which can lead to immediate expulsion.
7. What is better, High School Years or Growing Together?
“Better” is subjective and depends on your playstyle. High School Years focuses on teen gameplay and high school experiences, while Growing Together adds depth to family dynamics and relationships across all ages. Many players enjoy both.
8. Why can’t I bundle and save on Sims 4?
Check your game library to see if you own all eligible packs of a specific type. If so, the bundling option won’t appear. Also, remember the newest expansions and sometimes game packs are usually excluded from bundling for a period after release.
9. Can my Sim have twins in Sims 4?
Yes, Sims can have twins or triplets. The base chance of having twins is around 10%, and triplets are around 1%. Certain gameplay methods, like consuming fertility treatments or having the lot trait “On a Ley Line,” can increase these odds.
10. Are Sims 4 bundles free?
Bundles are not typically free. However, they are offered at a discounted price compared to purchasing the packs individually. Occasionally, limited-time promotions might offer free bundles.
11. Do Sims 4 packs expire?
No, once you purchase and download a Sims 4 pack, it is permanently added to your account and does not expire. The only exception might be if you had access through a subscription that has lapsed.
12. How much does it cost to own every pack in Sims 4?
As of 2023, owning every Sims 4 pack could cost around $995 USD. This includes all Expansion Packs, Game Packs, Stuff Packs, and Kits.
13. Is High School Years still buggy?
While there were some bugs initially after the High School Years release, EA has released patches to address many of them. However, it’s always wise to check community forums for the latest information on any persistent issues.
14. Why are my Sims not trying for a baby in Sims 4?
Several factors can prevent Sims from trying for a baby: one or both Sims being already pregnant, a full household (8 Sims), age restrictions (Teens cannot “Try for Baby” without mods, though they can become pregnant through gameplay bugs or mods), or conflicting sexual orientations set in the game.
15. Can you get pregnant in Sims 4 High School Years?
In the base game, only Young Adults and Adults can “Try for Baby.” However, teen pregnancy is possible through gameplay glitches or by using mods like Wicked Whims, which are not officially supported by EA.
The Sims 4 is a game of endless possibilities, and understanding how to optimize your purchases is key to getting the most out of your experience. While you might have to wait a bit longer to bundle High School Years, there are still plenty of ways to expand your game and save money. And remember, learning more about the game can be just as rewarding as playing it. Explore resources like the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org to delve deeper into the educational aspects of gaming and game design.