Xbox Series X Sims 4 Startup Loading Times Increasing Since July/August 2026

Hello Everyone,

I’m reaching out regarding a noticeable increase in The Sims 4 startup loading times on my Xbox Series X. I’m hoping to receive clarification on whether this is a known issue following recent updates and what can be done to improve performance.

Issue Description:

I’ve been playing The Sims 4 on Xbox Series X for quite some time and own all currently available packs. Previously, my game would take approximately 1 minute and 40 seconds to reach the main menu. However, since around the July/August 2026 updates, I’ve noticed my startup times progressively increasing.

Here are the loading times I’ve recorded:

• Originally: 1 minute, 40 seconds
• Later: 1 minute, 53 seconds
• Subsequently: Approximately 2 minutes
• More recently: 2 minutes, 49 seconds
• Previous test: 3 minutes, 10 seconds
• After restarting my Xbox Series X: 3 minutes, 5 seconds

Additional Observation:

At approximately 1 minute and 50 seconds, the loading bar appears completely full, and I hear a sound resembling the promotional notification that normally appears when reaching the main menu.

Despite this, the game continues loading for approximately another 75 seconds before I can access the main menu.

I’m wondering whether this additional delay is related to changes in game initialization, the Memory Boost update, or another startup process.

Additional Information:

• Platform: Xbox Series X
• Installed content: All currently available Sims 4 packs
• Save file: Relatively new
• My Library: Approximately 109 households and 63 lots
• Gameplay: Generally smooth, with no significant lag recently
• Traveling between lots: Loads reasonably quickly
• Game is normally fully closed after playing rather than left in Quick Resume
• Troubleshooting performed: Fully quit the game and restarted the Xbox Series X, with no meaningful improvement

Questions for EA/Maxis:

1. Is a startup time of approximately 3 minutes considered normal or expected for The Sims 4 on Xbox Series X following the 2026 updates?
2. Have other console players reported similar increases in startup loading times?
3. Is the development team aware of or investigating a possible startup performance regression?
4. Are there any recommended troubleshooting steps or upcoming improvements that could help reduce these loading times?

I enjoy The Sims 4 tremendously and have invested in the game’s content over the years. My main concern is the gradual increase in startup time, especially because the game itself generally runs smoothly once loaded.

I’d appreciate any clarification or assistance in determining whether this is expected behavior or a technical issue that needs attention.

Thank you for your time and support!