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Re: Origin won't open Sims 4 - says I'm "in game"

SOLUTION. Instead of deleting this post, I'll post what I did in order to get it to work. It might also only be temporary because I would like to re-install my antivirus software.

First, I had to disable my antivirus software (I know, sounds sketchy already!) - then I enabled Windows Defender Virus Protection and added The Sims 4 as an exception to some controlled folder setting. Instructions below: 

  1. Uninstall or disable your antivirus software
  2. Restart your computer
  3. Hit the Windows key on your keyboard. 
  4. Type "Windows Security"
  5. Click on the app that appears
  6. Click Virus & threat protection
  7. Click "Manage Settings" under Virus & threat protection settings
  8. Make sure Real-time protection is ON
  9. Scroll down to "Controlled folder access"
  10. Click manage controlled folder access
  11. Click Allow an app through Controlled folder access
  12. Click "Yes" when the dialogue box appears to ask for your permissions (administrator permission)
  13. Click +Add an allowed app
  14. Click browse all apps
  15. Browse to where your TS4.exe file is. It's often under "C:\Program Files (x86)\Origin Games\The Sims 4\Game\Bin" OR "C:\Program Files (x86)\The Sims 4\Game\Bin"
  16. Click the TS4 "Application" and click "Open"
  17. Try to start The Sims 4!

Mine worked without a restart, but it would be best to restart your computer after doing these steps. I hope this helps someone!!! Good gravy, what a day. 

10 Replies

  • Leijs's avatar
    Leijs
    5 years ago

    This is .... interesting.

    Because I did the same thing, but directly under Sophos.

    There it will not work.

    But i'm a bit anxious uninstalling my virusscanner.

  • crinrict's avatar
    crinrict
    Hero+
    5 years ago
    @Leijs I wouldn't uninstall your virusscanner. Just find out how to add Sims 4 as an exception

    What are you using ?
  • Leijs's avatar
    Leijs
    5 years ago
    @crinrict I'm using Sophos @ Home

    I actually added the bin directory as an exception there, but that didn't do the trick unfortunately.
  • crinrict's avatar
    crinrict
    Hero+
    5 years ago
    @Leijs Don't know that at all. Is there some ransomware protection there and can you add files not folders ? Usually if it's a folder it's to exclude them from scans.
  • @Leijs I am using Sophos too. I tried initially to add it as an exception on the web portal and it didn't work. I finally found (under Help > Troubleshooting in the desktop app) the ability to add an .exe file to the local exceptions. I hope that works

  • adermc93's avatar
    adermc93
    5 years ago

    I just did all of your steps and it still doesn't work for me oh my goddddd I'm going to lose my mind!!!

  • @crinrict I don't have a software running on this laptop at this stage I believe, however the antivirus security system on this laptop is McAfee if that helps. I had a trial that ran out and I haven't re-newed it yet 

  • crinrict's avatar
    crinrict
    Hero+
    5 years ago
    @adermc93 Make sure it's not running if it's not renewed (maybe even uninstall) and use Windows Defender. Then check if it works.
  • I’ve made sure that antivirus isn’t running and have enabled Windows Defender, but it’s still not working 😒 

    I didn’t want to have to fully un-install Origin and re-install every single thing again, but I might have to... 

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