The Sims 4 in 2025: Is the Base Game Worth the Play?

Let's be real, a decade and 76+ add-ons later, The Sims 4 resembles a digital Frankenstein's monster—a fascinating, sprawling creation stitched together from countless expansions. But with the base game now flaunting a free-to-play price tag, is it a generous offering or a cynical gateway drug to the expansive (and expensive) world of DLC?

The base game hasn't been entirely neglected. Regular updates have sprinkled in new features (ghostly interactions, anyone?), smoothed out gameplay wrinkles, and banished the occasional game-breaking bug. Three core worlds, the fundamental life simulation mechanics, and the joy of building and storytelling remain intact. You can still nurture your Sims, construct quirky homes (within the confines of the base game's offerings), and revel in the delightful absurdity of simulated life.

The DLC Elephant in the Room: What You're Not Getting

While the base game provides a taste of the Sims experience, it's a distinctly diet version. Prepare for some serious FOMO when you realize what's locked behind those DLC paywalls.

• Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Sim: No dynamic weather, no festive holidays, no cultivating prize-winning pumpkins. Thanks to the absence of Seasons, your Sims exist in a perpetual state of pleasant, predictable weather.

• 9-to-5 Mystery: Get to Work lets you micromanage your Sims' careers, adding intrigue and control. In the base game, work remains a mysterious off-screen activity. Your Sim leaves, comes back with money, and that's about it. Thrilling, right?

• Shallow Family Ties: Parenthood and Growing Together inject much-needed depth into family dynamics. Without them, childhood and adolescence feel like rushed, underdeveloped phases.

• A Lonely Existence (Barring Roommates): Animal lovers, prepare for disappointment. No furry companions unless you shell out for Cats & Dogs or other pet-related packs.

• Crimped Creativity: Years of DLC have showered The Sims 4 with building tools, furniture, and customization options. The base game, while functional, feels like creating a masterpiece with crayons when you're used to a full artist's palette.

The base game's killer feature? The price tag (or lack thereof). It's a risk-free entry point for the Sims-curious. Plus, its modest system requirements make it accessible even on potato-powered PCs. And unlike many free-to-play traps, The Sims 4 base game avoids the worst of microtransaction hell. You can enjoy a complete (albeit limited) experience without being constantly nagged to open your wallet.

Should You Bother with the Base Game in 2025?

• Sims Virgins: If you're new to the chaotic world of simulated life, the base game is a great low-commitment starting point. You won't know what you're missing (yet).

• Casual Clickers: Want a fun, distraction-free sim experience without the DLC rabbit hole? The base game fits the bill.

• Budget-Minded Players: Free is free! Dip your toes into the Sims pool without emptying your bank account.

Veteran Simmers, however, might find the base game a frustratingly stripped-down experience.

In 2025, The Sims 4 base game is a decent appetizer, but hardly the main course. While the core gameplay loop remains engaging, the absence of DLC creates a noticeable void. Download it, give it a whirl, and experience the foundational joys of The Sims. Just be prepared for the siren song of those expansion packs. Because let’s face it, sooner or later, you'll be craving those furry friends, dramatic weather events, and endless customization options. You've been warned.