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mpgore2004's avatar
6 years ago

The Sims 4: Legacy Edition Explained

Hi guys.

I just posted this on The Sims 4 Facebook group and though it might be useful here:

Going to give a quick overview of the Legacy Edition issue because some Simmers out there don't fully understand what is going on.

First of all, don't feel silly because it is a complex issue, especially for people who aren't computer or technically savvy.

What the Legacy Edition Is:

The Sims 4 Legacy Edition is a version of The Sims 4 that is available for players with a 32-bit Operating System. That means Windows for example.

Without getting technical, 32 bit is an older technique if calculating data and 64 bit is a newer way and can utilize multiple cores on a processor.

Also, 32 bit CPUs will not use more than 3.5GB of RAM in Windows.

The reason:

The Sims 4 is getting more and more complex now and requires more power from a machine, especially if you have all EPs, GPs and SPs.

The Sims 4 base game has also been updated to 64 bit only. Previously there was a choice, but that is no longer the case.

However, Legacy Edition is available for people to purchase should they want to play The Sims 4 but don't have a 64 bit OS.

Moving forward, all official content for the Sims 4 will require a 64 bit OS, so that means if you do not have a 64 bit OS then you will not be able use any new Expansions etc.

Windows:

You will pretty much only need to check your bit version if you have Windows 7 since Windows XP 64-bit will be known to you and is notorious for its incompatibility and Windows 10 is 64 bit anyway. There are no 64 bit Windows before XP.

To check your bit version, right-click "My Computer" and select "Properties" from the drop-down menu.

The information will tell you whether you have a 32/64 bit OS and/or CPU.

Where people are getting confused is between OS and CPU.

A computer with a 64-bit processor can have a 64-bit or 32-bit version of an operating system installed. However, with a 32-bit operating system, the 64-bit processor would not run at its full capability.

On a computer with a 64-bit processor and OS, many 32-bit programs will work but some older 32-bit programs may not function properly, or at all, due to limited or no compatibility.

Sorry if that post turned out a little longer than expected but hopefully it has cleared up some things for you guys.

Happy Simming,
Michael.
  • I have a 64-bit OS, and still tells me to download legacy edition?! Please help what should i do??
  • The legacy edition is for people with older Macs, often those (like mine) that can run 64 bit windows. There are a LOT of Mac users affected.
  • Lonewolf1044's avatar
    Lonewolf1044
    Seasoned Spectator
    "Twistaloca;c-17337538" wrote:
    I have a 64-bit OS, and still tells me to download legacy edition?! Please help what should i do??


    I get that too but just ignore it, the app EA/Maxis may be using may have an hard time telling what are one's exact specs and needs to be tweaked Imho. If you you know your system specs and you are comfortable in knowing it meets the standards to run 64 bit, do not downgrade to the legacy edition as I heard it is difficult and harsh to get back to 64 bit.
  • Does anyone have any links for mods that support legacy edition. Specifically basemental/drugs mod and extreme violence mod. Would be very much appreciated