@tiffy_is_here I've merged your post with the master thread for this error. Please try the other troubleshooting steps in the first post on page one.
I'm experiencing the "Sims 4 is already running" error on my PC. I have removed all mods, uninstalled and reinstalled the game, and deleted all previous game data to ensure that the system recognizes this as the very first time the game is being run. I've followed all the steps outlined in the initial post, but I'm still encountering the same issue. I have attached my DxDiag for reference.
"I am encountering an issue where 'Sims 4 is already running' on my PC. I have followed all the steps in the thread titled 'Re: Sims 4 Unable to Start Since the October 31, 2024 Update,' but I am still receiving this error. I understand that this error indicates a problem with connecting to the Sims 4 folder in my Documents. I even completely removed the game to make it feel like a first-time installation, but it's still not working. and I stupidly didn't back up the old folder. I got a sims 4 folder from my husbands game which changed the error message to unable to start initialization error.
@Tharazaria Did you in fact create a local admin Windows account and try playing there? I want to make sure because it's easy to create an account that isn't local. The distinction is whether you tie the account to an email address.
If that doesn't or didn't help, please disable Nord VPN and restart your computer, then try again to play. EA games don't always get along with VPNs, and yours is crashing.
@Tharazaria Look in the Task Manager's Details tab. Another way to search is to click Windows key-R, enter msconfig , and look through the list there. Both should be in alphabetical order.
I suppose it's possible that another program you've installed includes some VPN-related process as well.
@tiffy_is_here What antivirus do you use? Have you installed Sims 4 through the EA App or Steam?
I have a solution if this hasn't be solved.
This can be caused if you made an mklink and the folder destination changed. It should be the folder with this symbol under it (normally white square with blue arrow)↗️.
For example if I created a mklink so the folder in my C drive would go to my D drive instead, delete the C drive folder and re-establish the link in the cmd prompt.
If this doesn't work then I'm not sure.
