Testers for new update to prevent breaks?

I want to start off by saying this account isn’t my main account tied to the game. Not because I’m worried about posting, but because I don’t plan on coming back to this account unless someone directly replies to me.

That being said, here are some issues that I think need to be addressed.

First, I appreciate The Sims/EA team for working on fixes and stating that issues have been resolved on their end. However, from my experience, the problems are still ongoing.

I was able to install the update following the previous patch that introduced the Marketplace, but it didn’t help much. I’m currently having to go through every folder, mod manager, and third-party tool to figure out which mods might be interfering with the game—even though all of my CC/mods were updated for the previous patch (not the Marketplace one).

This process is taking a long time and will likely take several days. I’ve already:

• Cleared and deleted cache files (both in-game and on my computer)
• Removed and re-added mods
• Tried loading the game multiple times
• Repairing the game

• Uninstalling and reinstalling

Forced Updates & Lack of Player Choice

Currently, players are not allowed to play the game without updating, which takes away personal choice.

Some concerns:

• Players cannot launch the game without updating
• The game may auto-update even when auto-updates are turned off
• Waiting too long forces the update anyway

A better system could include:

• Separating bug fix patches from feature updates (like the Marketplace)
• Allowing players to choose whether or not to update immediately
• Letting players launch the game without being forced to update

I understand this may require more work, but other games have systems like this.

Example: Blender allows users to use other updated versions of the software/app; mine is considered old but I still have access to the app/software and any feautres/kits.

Mods & Custom Content (CC)

I understand that not all games support mods/CC, but for many players, it’s a major part of the experience.

Many of us have:

• Spent money on content
• Invested time into customizing our game
• Built our gameplay around mods/CC

Being forced into updates that break these setups is frustrating.

I did see acknowledgment (from either a user or possibly someone from EA) that mods/CC are important, which I appreciate.

Gallery Issues

I was able to access the Gallery, but it was not functioning properly.

When filtering for items that include CC, nothing would show up unless I manually searched. Only base game content appeared by default, which makes it difficult to find specific items when you don’t remember their names.

Marketplace Feedback

I don’t know much about the Marketplace, and I don’t personally have much interest in using it right now. I do think it’s a cool and unique addition, but it doesn’t add much to my gameplay.

I also wish there was an option to revert/change to the previous version of the game before the Marketplace update, but that’s not currently possible.

Current Game Issues

After repeatedly removing and adding mods back in, my game will sometimes:

• Attempt to load
• Show the loading screen
• Then go to a black screen

This happens even after multiple attempts (30+ times).

I understand that some mods may be conflicting, but this issue did not exist before the Marketplace update, which is why it’s concerning.

I also understand that some players choose to play without mods/CC—but that’s not my playstyle.

Opinion on the Marketplace Implementation

In my opinion, the Marketplace should have been released through the EA app, rather than being included in a mandatory update. 

Even after removing mods, I’ve experienced issues with the Marketplace not loading at all, which suggests the problem may not be entirely mod-related.

I also saw reports of users purchasing content through the Marketplace and not receiving it, which is concerning if accurate.

Missed Opportunity

When I first heard about the Marketplace, I thought it would introduce in-game experiences like:

• Farmers markets
• Seasonal markets
• World-based shopping systems

This could have added realism and gameplay depth.

Instead, it seems focused on in-game purchasing, which feels different from what many players expected.

Problems Still Existing After the “Fix”

• Mods/CC still not fully working
• Certain mods appear to be blocked or not functioning properly
• Inability to load or access:
  • The Sims 4
  • The Gallery
  • The Marketplace

• Black screen issues (during loading or at the main menu)

In-game playing (no mods after reinstalling)

• Toddlers are walking weird (stiff, robotic-like)
• Nannies are not caring for babies, infants, and toddlers.
• Sims not performing certain actions like cleaning (no surprise there), taking care of children, and etc...)
• Needs going down within seconds after fulfilling them. 
• Game suddenly freezes giving a black transparent screen.

Informing About Updates

The Sims currently communicates updates—such as reminders to remove mods/CC—primarily through X (Twitter). However, a large portion of the community, including myself, does not use this platform. Important updates and warnings should be shared across multiple channels to ensure all players are properly informed.

If this information is already being posted elsewhere, it isn’t widely visible. For example, I use Instagram and did not see any updates there. I only became aware of the situation after someone directed me to X (Twitter).

Notifications should also be delivered through additional channels, such as email or other account-linked alerts. Relying on a single platform like X (Twitter) is not an effective way to reach the entire player base. Announcements should also be made directly within the EA app through its notification or messaging features.

Final Thoughts

I’m not trying to hate on the Marketplace—I think it’s a unique idea. However, the way it was implemented has caused significant issues.

At the very least, players should have:

• More control over updates
• The ability to play without being forced to update
• Better stability when new features are introduced

Right now, the experience is more frustrating than enjoyable. I want to clarify that these are not expectations—just recommendations and feedback based on ongoing issues.