How to Change Your Sims 4 Installation Location
Moving your Sims 4 installation can be necessary for various reasons: freeing up space on your primary drive, improving game performance by installing to an SSD, or simply reorganizing your files. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring a smooth transition for your beloved Sims!
Before You Begin: Important Considerations
Before diving into the relocation process, there are a few crucial points to keep in mind:
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Backups: Always back up your save files! This is the most critical step. Losing your progress would be heartbreaking. Locate your save files (the location varies slightly depending on your operating system, but it's usually within Documents > Electronic Arts > The Sims 4) and copy them to a safe, external location.
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Mods and Custom Content (CC): If you use mods and CC, backing these up is equally important. They are usually located in the same Documents folder as your save files, in a subfolder named "Mods". Copy the entire Mods folder to your backup location.
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Origin Client: You'll need the Origin client installed and running to complete this process. Make sure you're logged in.
Method 1: Moving Through Origin (Recommended)
This method leverages Origin's built-in features and is generally the safest and easiest way to relocate your game.
Step 1: Uninstall the Game
Open Origin, locate The Sims 4 in your game library, right-click on it, and select "Uninstall." This completely removes the game from its current location.
Step 2: Install to a New Location
Once uninstalled, re-install The Sims 4 through Origin. During the installation process, you'll be given the option to choose a new installation directory. Select your desired location (ideally a drive with ample space).
Step 3: Restore Save Files and Mods
After the installation completes, copy your backed-up save files and mods folder back into their respective locations within your Documents folder.
Method 2: Manually Moving Files (Advanced & Not Recommended)
This method involves manually moving the game files. While possible, it's highly discouraged as it carries a greater risk of data corruption or game instability. Only attempt this if you are comfortable with advanced file manipulation.
Step 1: Locate the Game Files: Identify the directory where the Sims 4 is currently installed.
Step 2: Copy Files: Copy the entire Sims 4 game folder to the new location. This process may take a considerable amount of time, depending on the size of your game files.
Step 3: Update Shortcuts (If Applicable): If you have any desktop shortcuts or pinned taskbar entries, you will likely need to update these to point to the new installation directory.
Step 4: Run the Game: Try running the game from its new location. If problems arise, it's likely that this method has failed, and you'll need to reinstall as described in Method 1.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter any issues after moving your Sims 4 installation, try the following:
- Verify Game Files: Through Origin, you can verify the game files' integrity. This checks for any corrupted or missing files.
- Reinstall: If the problem persists, reinstalling the game might be necessary.
- Check System Requirements: Ensure your new installation location meets the minimum system requirements for The Sims 4.
By following these steps and prioritizing your backups, you can successfully change your Sims 4 installation location with minimal disruption to your gameplay. Remember, Method 1 (using Origin) is always the preferred method. It's safer, easier, and less prone to errors. Happy Simming!
