I've always considered Generations to be a beefy stuff pack in disguise. Can't say it's a favorite of mine either even if I do use some of the features. I was under the impression though that the majority loves this pack. *shrug*
If you use mods such as NRaas, NRaas: Retuner I believe has a tuning setting to turn off the royal court thingy. It can also remove the chance to receive the doll through the mail. I know you already said you found mod solutions but Retuner is a good one-stop shop for most tuning needs. It just requires different pathways depending on the desired result to tweak settings. If you're interested, I can help.
:warning:
If your sims ever get the opportunity for a 'Free Vacation', do not take it. It's been known to glitch out and the parents will not return if I remember correctly.Ambitions, Seasons, & University are all good packs. I personally find a use for all of them no matter how big or small. I recommend looking up guides/reviews if you really want to check out features first. This could have saved your purchase regret with Generations.
- Ambitions is a top favorite of mine just for self-employment alone which can also be expanded upon with the use of mods.
- Seasons is up there too because the weather really is a complete game changer.
- University I look back on fondly waiting for it to release and then exploring the pack... But I put Ambitions and then Seasons first. Keep in mind, Seasons is very demanding so make sure your computer can handle it.
Now, for those reviews/guides. :) There are others out there too... a quick Google search should pull up some.
Ambitions
Carl's Game Guide
https://youtu.be/3uyIXahNs08
Seasons
Sims VIP Game Guide
Carl's Game Guide
https://youtu.be/DPsri_-tIXk
Univeristy
Sims VIP Game Guide
Carl's Game Guide
https://youtu.be/KXZxhmbbHk4