1. No! However, for some reason, I couldnt access online features with a pre 1.55.xxx patch. So just install Basegame + Seasons and patch it up to 1.55.xxx .
2. Depends what is your mind... If you strictly want the achievements, you dont need it.
3. That's exactly why I had to patch it a bit further than just the basic Seasons Patch. And, even better, if you patch it prior to installing Seasons, you get to skip that step in the install process...
4. From what I get, once you get the achievement, the game create a token in your download folder. As soon as that token is uploaded, thesims3.com will show the badge on your page. In other words, if you can earn it while being online, you'll almost instantly get it on your profile.
