Tech Responders - Break Room
UPDATE - Hi all, i thought i update this first posting to encourage any person helping others here to stop by to at least say, hi. Also if you have any good insight/solution to a problem plaguing many in the community we would really appreciate a heads up! ************************************************************* Howdy, thought i make a thread for those who post answers in the tech forum. Give us a chance to say hi and perhaps talk a little shop...Or just chat about something! Like im hoping i can pick b.ob007's brain re windows 8..for starters there was a recent update and some folks are having issue now ..any ideas? also any good insight how windows 8 is different then 7 in terms of handling the game... Also noticing more and more folks installing EPs without all stuff..anyone have any theories also did anyone see the grammies..i missed it but not sure if there any good performances i should youtube126KViews1like8444Comments
The Sims 3 Master Help Thread - Updated 5/21/2018
Hi folks, Welcome to the Master Help Thread! This will be the home for common questions and will be posted here with a link. This page is divided into several sections. Press the keyboard combo Control F (CTRL-F) to use your web browser's built in search tool to locate what you need. Master Help Sections • Introduction • Registration • Game Serial Numbers • Warranty • Customer Support • EA Help Center • Online Security • Drivers & DirectX • General Maintenance • Game System Requirements • Installation • Origin • Origin Access Program • Steam • Game Updates • Startup • Uninstalling • Performance • Gameplay • The Sims 3 Store • The Sims Exchange • Game Guides • The Sims 3 Website • Macs • More Topics Introduction Where can I buy The Sims 3 games? https://help.ea.com/help/faq/where-to-buy-ea-games-v2 How can I get started with The Sims 3? http://www.thesims3.com/gettingstarted/faq https://help.ea.com/help/the-sims/the-sims-3/the-sims-3-tips-and-tricks Where can I get free stuff for The Sims 3? http://www.thesims3.com/freeStuff Who is the EA seller entity? https://help.ea.com/help/faq/who-is-the-ea-seller-entity How do Expansion Packs and Stuff Packs work in The Sims 3? https://help.ea.com/article/the-sims-3-expansion-pack-guide How do I find and manage my The Sims 3 expansions in Origin? https://help.ea.com/help/the-sims/the-sims-3/where-to-find-the-sims-3-expansions-in-origin Registration How do I register my The Sims 3 game and related content? https://answers.ea.com/t5/The-Sims-3/INFO-How-to-Register-The-Sims-3/td-p/387162 Game Serial Numbers I purchased an Origin digital download game. How can I view my serial number? https://help.ea.com/article/how-to-find-your-product-code-in-origin How can I view my The Sims 3 serial number in Windows? https://help.ea.com/article/license-limit-has-been-reached-workaround-for-the-sims-3 I cannot find my serial code for my disc version of The Sims 3 game - what can I do? https://help.ea.com/article/what-do-i-do-if-i-cant-find-my-cd-registration-key-for-the-sims-3 Warranty What is the Great Game Guarantee? https://help.ea.com/article/what-s-the-great-games-guarantee Where can I find more information on the EA Warranty Policy? https://help.ea.com/article/electronic-arts-warranty-policy Where can I find more information on Origin purchase returns and cancellations? https://help.ea.com/article/returns-and-cancellations Where can I find more information on Origin UK purchase returns and cancellations? https://help.ea.com/help/account/ea-uk-warranty-policy Where can I find more information on Origin APAC purchase returns and cancellations? https://help.ea.com/article/origin-apac-returns-and-cancellations Where can I find more information on Origin AU purchase returns and cancellations? https://help.ea.com/help/account/origin-au-returns-and-cancellations Customer Support How can I contact Customer Support? https://help.ea.com/contact-us I am having difficulty contacting Customer Support. https://answers.ea.com/t5/Technical-Issues/How-to-contact-an-Advisor-via-EA-Help/td-p/5650100 What information should I have at the ready before contacting Customer Support? https://help.ea.com/article/contact-ea-help How do I provide my Proof of Purchase information to Customer Support? https://help.ea.com/help/account/how-to-provide-proof-of-purchase How do I attach a file to my EA Help ticket? https://help.ea.com/help/faq/how-to-attach-a-file-to-your-ea-help-ticket How do I find and attach my MSInfo or DXDiag to my EA Help case? https://help.ea.com/help/pc/how-to-find-and-attach-your-msinfo https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/kb/300887 https://help.ea.com/article/how-to-gather-dxdiag-information How do I use the Origin Error Reporting tool? https://help.ea.com/article/how-to-use-origin-error-reporting How do I obtain my Mac’s system specifications information to provide to EA Help? https://help.ea.com/article/how-to-use-the-about-this-mac-feature How do I file a complaint? https://help.ea.com/help/faq/what-do-i-do-if-i-have-a-complaint EA Help Center What is the new EA Help Center? https://help.ea.com/help/faq/welcome-to-the-new-ea-help Where can I find the EA Help Center for Origin? https://help.ea.com/origin/origin Online Security How do I maintain my EA account security and safety? https://help.ea.com/help/account/how-to-maintain-account-security What is Phishing? https://help.ea.com/help/faq/phishing-what-it-is-and-how-to-avoid-it What should I do if my EA mobile game has been hacked? https://help.ea.com/help/mobile/what-to-do-if-your-mobile-game-has-been-hacked How do I contact EA Help about fraudulent charges made to my EA account? https://help.ea.com/help/account/how-to-contact-ea-help-about-fraudulent-charges What is Origin login verification? https://help.ea.com/article/origin-login-verification-information How do I change my EA Account security question and answer? https://help.ea.com/help/account/how-do-i-change-my-security-question-and-answer How do I report suspicious or abusive users in Origin? https://help.ea.com/help/faq/report-players-for-cheating-abuse-and-harassment How do I report cheat, hack or scam websites to EA? https://help.ea.com/article/how-to-report-cheat-hack-scam-websites-to-ea Drivers & DirectX How do I run a DXDiag to see if my drivers are out of date? https://help.ea.com/article/how-to-gather-dxdiag-information How do I update my Windows drivers? https://help.ea.com/article/finding-devices-and-updating-drivers Will there be Windows driver support for my NVidia legacy graphics device after 2016? http://nvidia.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/3473 Will there be 32-bit Windows driver support for my NVidia graphics device after 2017? https://nvidia.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/4604 Will there be Windows driver support for my AMD graphics device after 2016? http://support.amd.com/en-us/kb-articles/Pages/Software-Support-Legacy-Graphics.aspx How do I perform a clean installation of my graphics driver? https://help.ea.com/help/pc/how-to-perform-a-clean-installation-of-your-graphics-driver General Maintenance How do I correct errors and corrupt files with Windows System File Checker on PC? https://help.ea.com/article/how-do-i-run-the-system-file-checker How do I clear my temporary files in Windows? https://help.ea.com/article/clearing-your-temporary-files How do I clear my web browser cache? https://help.ea.com/article/clearing-your-browsers-cache I upgraded my computer operating system to Windows 10 - how do I ensure my game works properly on the new OS? https://help.ea.com/help/pc/your-games-and-the-windows-10-upgrade How do I use Decrap to fix PC issues? https://help.ea.com/help/pc/how-to-use-decrap-to-fix-pc-issues How do I use CCleaner to fix PC issues? https://help.ea.com/help/pc/how-to-use-ccleaner-to-fix-pc-issues Game System Requirements How can I check if my PC meets the minimum system requirements for The Sims 3? https://help.ea.com/article/how-to-check-if-your-pc-meets-minimum-requirements What are the minimum system requirements for The Sims 3? https://www.thesims3.com/game/systemreq I am having installation issues with my The Sims 3 game. https://help.ea.com/article/performance-and-or-installation-issues-with-the-sims-3 Installation Where can I find installation guides for The Sims 3 game and additional content? https://help.ea.com/help/the-sims/the-sims-3/where-to-find-the-sims-3-expansions-in-origin https://help.ea.com/help/the-sims/the-sims-3/the-sims-3-complete-installation-guide Why am I getting a DLC Compatibility Alert message in Origin? http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/712877 My game will not download over the internet through Origin - what can I do? https://help.ea.com/article/programs-that-may-cause-conflicts-with-origin My game will not finish downloading over the internet through Origin - what can I do? https://help.ea.com/article/clearing-your-temporary-files https://help.ea.com/article/manually-uninstalling-origin Why did my Origin download stop before completing? https://help.ea.com/help/origin/origin/origin-download-stops My game will not install through Origin. https://help.ea.com/article/my-game-downloaded-through-origin-but-will-not-install https://help.ea.com/article/programs-that-may-cause-conflicts-with-origin I am having trouble installing The Sims 3 from disc. https://help.ea.com/article/trouble-installing-the-sims-3-from-an-install-disk Origin How do I create an EA Account? https://help.ea.com/help/account/how-to-create-an-origin-account How do I get started with setting up and using my EA Account? https://help.ea.com/help/faq/are-you-ready-to-play-ea-games What rules should I be aware of when creating or using my EA account? https://help.ea.com/help/faq/play-by-the-ea-rules How do I get started with setting up and using Origin? https://help.ea.com/help/origin/origin/install-origin What operating systems does Origin support? https://help.ea.com/help/origin/origin/operating-system-not-supported-by-origin Where can I find the Origin FAQ? https://help.ea.com/article/origin-faq How can I check out the new Origin experience? https://help.ea.com/help/origin/origin/check-out-origins-new-look I have questions about ordering and buying through Origin. https://help.ea.com/help/account/ordering-payment-information Where can I buy EA Cash Cards and how do I use them? https://help.ea.com/help/account/ea-cash-card-information How do I get started with downloading, installing and launching my EA game? https://help.ea.com/article/how-to-get-in-your-new-game How do I change my language settings in Origin? https://help.ea.com/article/how-to-change-your-language-settings-in-origin How do I use the Origin In Game feature? https://help.ea.com/help/origin/origin/how-to-use-origin-in-game Is Origin really giving away games for free?! https://www.origin.com/store/free-games/on-the-house How do I send and/or receive gifts through Origin? https://help.ea.com/help/origin/origin/send-and-receive-gifts-with-origin I am having trouble sending or receiving gifts through Origin. https://help.ea.com/help/origin/origin/origin-gifting-issues-and-workarounds Where can I find more information on the Origin Privacy Policy? https://www.origin.com/privacypolicy How do I use my Turkish credit or debit card to make an EA purchase? https://help.ea.com/help/account/online-payments-with-turkish-debit-credit-cards What payment methods are accepted in Russia to make an EA purchase? https://help.ea.com/help/account/yandex-info Where can I find more information on payment error codes from Origin? https://help.ea.com/help/origin/origin/figure-out-origin-error-codes Where can I find more information on Origin payment and coupon errors? https://help.ea.com/help/origin/origin/origin-payment-errors How do I manage my payment and shipping information in Origin? https://help.ea.com/help/account/origin-store-payment-and-shipping-method-guide How do I link or unlink my Facebook ID to my EA Account? https://help.ea.com/help/account/how-do-i-link-my-facebook-id-to-my-origin-account I am having connection and/or error issues with Origin. https://help.ea.com/article/connection-issues-with-origin I accidentally made a second EA Account, what can I do about it? https://help.ea.com/help/account/accidental-second-ea-account I have multiple EA accounts - is it possible to consolidate or merge them? https://help.ea.com/help/account/linking-accounts-and-persona-transfers How do I set up a child EA account? https://help.ea.com/help/account/how-do-i-set-up-an-origin-account-for-my-child How do I age up a child EA Account? https://help.ea.com/article/aging-up-an-origin-account-to-an-adult-account My child forgot the password to their child EA Account. https://help.ea.com/help/account/update-your-child-s-underage-account-password Can I give my child access to online features on their child EA Account? https://help.ea.com/help/account/give-your-child-access-to-games-on-their-child-account How do I change my EA Account ID and information? https://help.ea.com/help/account/how-to-change-your-origin-id How do I change my privacy settings in Origin? https://help.ea.com/article/origin-privacy-settings-guide Is it possible to link my Xbox One account to a different EA Account using Revoke Access? https://help.ea.com/help/console/can-i-use-the-revoke-access-button-to-link-my-xbox-one-to-a-different-origin-account How do I troubleshoot Origin Voice Chat and DirectSound errors? https://help.ea.com/help/origin/origin/troubleshoot-origin-voice-chat-directsound-errors I forgot my EA account. What can I do? https://help.ea.com/help/account/im-locked-out-of-my-ea-account How do I close my EA account? https://help.ea.com/article/how-to-close-your-origin-account How do I download my new game on Origin? https://help.ea.com/article/how-do-i-download-my-new-game-on-origin How do I back up and restore my Origin game? https://help.ea.com/article/backing-up-and-restoring-your-origin-games I have questions about the Origin code redemption. https://help.ea.com/article/origin-code-redemption-faq How do I view my Origin purchase history through the Origin download manager? https://help.ea.com/article/origin-order-history-and-status-guide Why do I not see my purchase in Origin? https://help.ea.com/help/origin/origin/origin-my-games-list-is-blank How can I make a change to my Origin order? https://help.ea.com/help/account/how-can-i-make-a-change-to-my-origin-order How do I manually uninstall Origin? https://help.ea.com/article/manually-uninstalling-origin What is preloading? https://help.ea.com/article/origin-pre-load-faq How do I download Origin beta updates? https://help.ea.com/help/origin/origin/how-do-i-opt-in-to-origin-beta-updates Where can I find the Origin forums? https://answers.ea.com/t5/Origin/bd-p/O-2 Origin Access Program What is Origin Access? https://help.ea.com/article/origin-access-details What is the Origin Access friend referral program? https://help.ea.com/help/console/ea-access-refer-a-friend-program What is The Vault with Origin Access? https://help.ea.com/article/discover-the-vault-with-origin-access What is the EA Access Hub app? https://help.ea.com/help/console/ea-access-the-hub-app-and-the-vault How do I troubleshoot Origin Access issues and errors? https://help.ea.com/article/troubleshoot-origin-access-issues-and-errors Where can I find help for non-EA games in The Vault? https://help.ea.com/article/help-for-non-ea-origin-access-titles How do I manage my Origin Access membership? https://help.ea.com/article/manage-your-origin-access-membership How do I try out new EA games with Origin Access Play First Trials? https://help.ea.com/article/try-new-ea-games-with-origin-access-play-first-trials I have other questions about Origin Access. https://www.origin.com/origin-access/faq Where can I find the EA community forum for Origin Access? https://answers.ea.com/t5/Origin-Access/bd-p/origin-access-en Steam Why can I not use the Create a World tool with my Steam Sims 3 game? http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/649765 Game Updates Where can I find the latest patch notes for The Sims 3? http://www.thesims3.com/game/patches I am having trouble patching The Sims 3 through the game launcher. What can I do? http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/175477 Where can I find archived manual incremental game updates? http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/188505 I get a "Forbidden 403" error message when trying to download a manual game update. http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/803317 An update for my game is available in Origin, but I am unable to download it. https://help.ea.com/article/programs-that-may-cause-conflicts-with-origin My game will not finish updating in Origin - what can I do? https://help.ea.com/article/clearing-your-temporary-files https://help.ea.com/help/origin/origin/how-do-i-opt-in-to-origin-beta-updates https://help.ea.com/article/manually-uninstalling-origin What is The Sims 3 Expansion and Stuff Pack Manager and how can I get it? https://help.ea.com/article/new-launcher-for-the-sims-3 Startup The Origin "My Games" list is blank! https://help.ea.com/article/origin-my-games-list-is-blank I am having issues connecting to Origin with The Sims 3. https://help.ea.com/article/issues-with-connecting-to-origin-with-the-sims-3 My game will not launch from Origin. https://help.ea.com/article/how-do-i-run-a-program-or-a-game-as-an-administrator My game still will not launch from Origin! https://help.ea.com/help/origin/origin/i-cannot-load-my-game-from-origin-or-i-am-having-issues-in-game Why am I being asked to verify ownership in Origin? https://help.ea.com/help/origin/origin/verifying-ownership-in-origin I'm getting a "Device 0 cannot run this title" error message. https://help.ea.com/article/unable-to-start-game-device-0-cannot-run-this-title-message-in-the-sims-3 How do I check Windows recommended compatibility? https://help.ea.com/article/how-do-i-check-windows-recommended-compatibility I am having login issues with my The Sims 3 game launcher. https://help.ea.com/article/clearing-your-browsers-cache I am still having login issues with my The Sims 3 game launcher! https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/help/17438/windows-internet-explorer-view-delete-browsing-history Uninstalling How do I de-authorize my computer from running The Sims 3 (digital download)? https://help.ea.com/article/using-the-de-authorization-tool-for-the-sims-3 How do I uninstall The Sims 3, its Expansion Packs and Stuff Packs? https://help.ea.com/help/the-sims/the-sims-3/manually-uninstalling-the-sims-3 Performance I am having performance issues with my The Sims 3 game. https://help.ea.com/article/performance-and-or-installation-issues-with-the-sims-3 The Sims 3 will not work after using Origin's repair feature! https://help.ea.com/help/the-sims/the-sims-3/having-trouble-with-the-sims-3-after-a-repair How do I troubleshoot other issues in The Sims 3 on PC? https://help.ea.com/help/the-sims/the-sims-3/troubleshoot-the-sims-3-pc How do I run The Sims 3 in windowed mode? https://help.ea.com/help/the-sims/the-sims-3/black-screens-crashing-or-freezing-in-sims-3-try-windowed-mode How do I set up a custom NVidia graphics card gaming profile? http://nvidia.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/2615 How do I set up a custom AMD graphics card gaming profile? http://support.amd.com/en-us/kb-articles/Pages/How-To-Create-Game-Profiles-Using-AMD-Radeon-Software.aspx My game crashes after installing Exchange/Custom Content. https://help.ea.com/article/game-crashes-after-installing-exchange-custom-content My game freezes and I am using an NVidia SLI / ATI CrossFire setup. http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/475903 My PC has an Intel Core i5/i7 processor and is randomly freezing, shutting down, or resetting while running the game. https://communities.intel.com/docs/DOC-23517 My game keeps flashing a black screen on my monitor display! http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/890267 How do I perform a clean boot on my PC? https://help.ea.com/article/how-to-clean-boot-your-pc My graphics seem blurry. http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/547342 How do I troubleshoot connection issues on my PC? https://help.ea.com/help/faq/connection-troubleshooting-basic https://help.ea.com/article/opening-tcp-or-udp-ports-for-connection-issues https://help.ea.com/article/connection-troubleshooting-advanced-pc https://help.ea.com/help/pc/how-to-flush-dns-cache-for-windows How do I troubleshoot connection issues on my console device? https://help.ea.com/help/faq/not-able-to-connect-to-online-play https://help.ea.com/help/console/connection-troubleshooting-advanced-xbox https://help.ea.com/help/console/connection-troubleshooting-advanced-playstation How do I troubleshoot connection issues on my mobile device? https://help.ea.com/help/mobile/troubleshooting-steps-for-ios-apps https://help.ea.com/help/mobile/troubleshooting-steps-for-android How can I get The Sims 3 to work on my newer computer operating system? https://help.ea.com/help/pc/getting-ea-classics-up-and-running-on-your-modern-os Why am I experiencing lag? https://help.ea.com/help/battlefield/battlefield-3/why-am-i-experiencing-lag My game keeps crashing to my Windows desktop! https://help.ea.com/help/pc/game-crashes-to-desktop-on-windows Gameplay My game is acting strange. http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/537438 https://help.ea.com/help/origin/origin/i-cannot-load-my-game-from-origin-or-i-am-having-issues-in-game My game keeps stalling when I try to export my item to the launcher! http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/750295 The Sims 3 Store How do I add purchased Store items to The Sims 3? https://help.ea.com/help/the-sims/the-sims-3/adding-purchased-items-to-the-sims-3 How do I download items from The Sims 3 Store? https://help.ea.com/help/the-sims/the-sims-3/using-the-sims-3-exchange-and-store Can I give gifts to my friends in The Sims 3? https://help.ea.com/article/give-gifts-to-friends-in-the-sims-3 How do I purchase SimPoints or Store worlds for The Sims 3 after January 6, 2016? https://help.ea.com/article/sims-3-making-purchases-through-the-origin-website I redeemed my Store item redemption code in Origin by mistake - what can I do? http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/767528 What are Featured Store Items? http://www.thesims3.com/gettingstarted/fsi What are Goodie Boxes? https://help.ea.com/article/the-sims-3-goodie-boxes How do I get my 1000 SimPoints from The Sims 3? https://help.ea.com/article/where-are-my-free-simpoints How can I earn free SimPoints? http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/673494 How do I use Shop Mode? http://www.thesims3.com/contentDetail.html?contentId=211983 How do I use the Castle Exterior Set in the game? http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/137758 I have questions about Barnacle Bay. https://help.ea.com/help/the-sims/the-sims-3/sims-3-barnacle-bay-expansion http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/350890 How do I install Hidden Springs? https://help.ea.com/article/how-to-install-the-sims-3-hidden-springs Do I need Ambitions to download the Loads of Laundry set? http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/294640 The Sims 3 Store ‘Spring Cleaning’. http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/382199 How do I get my The Sims 3 Showtime Freestyle DJ Booth registration reward? https://help.ea.com/article/the-sims-3-showtime-locating-the-freestyle-dj-booth The Sims Exchange What are the Exchange rules? http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/206 How do I upload or download items on The Sims 3 Exchange? https://help.ea.com/help/the-sims/the-sims-3/using-the-sims-3-exchange-and-store Why was my Exchange upload removed? http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/174171 Game Guides Where can I find a digital game manual for The Sims 3? https://eaassets-a.akamaihd.net/eahelp/manuals/the-sims-3-manual_PC.pdf Where can I find a digital game manual for The Sims 3 Deluxe? https://eaassets-a.akamaihd.net/eahelp/manuals/the-sims-3-deluxe-manual_PC.pdf How can I control the seasons and weather in The Sims 3 Seasons? https://help.ea.com/article/how-can-i-control-the-seasons-and-weather-in-the-new-the-sims-3-seasons-expansion How do I create a Story in The Sims 3? http://www.thesims3.com/contentDetail.html?contentId=469 How do I create a Movie in The Sims 3? http://www.thesims3.com/contentDetail.html?contentId=471 The Sims 3 Website What browser versions does The Sims 3 website support? http://www.thesims3.com/gettingstarted/browserupgrade Where can I find the Forum Rules? http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/922562 Where can I find the EA Account Suspension Policy? https://help.ea.com/article/electronic-arts-account-suspension-policy Where can I find the Electronic Arts Terms of Service? http://www.ea.com/terms-of-service Where can I find the Electronic Arts Privacy Policy? http://www.ea.com/privacy-policy Where can I find The Sims 3 Store Digital Services Agreement? http://store.thesims3.com/dsa.html Macs Is Origin available for Mac? http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/644084 How do I change the language in The Sims 3 on Mac? https://help.ea.com/help/the-sims/the-sims-3/how-to-change-your-language-in-the-sims-3-on-mac My Origin for Mac is crashing on startup! https://help.ea.com/article/how-to-reset-origin-on-mac I am having trouble patching The Sims 3 in Mac OS X. What can I do? http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/549552 When installing an expansion or stuff pack I get a "Select a volume where The Sims 3.localized/The Sims3.app is already installed" message. http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/395830 How do I perform a clean boot on a Mac? https://support.apple.com/HT201262 How do I perform a checkup of the hard drive on a Mac? https://help.ea.com/help/mac/trouble-with-mac-games-hard-drive-checkup I am having online connection issues on Mac. https://help.ea.com/article/connection-troubleshooting-advanced-mac How do I troubleshoot issues in The Sims 3 on Mac? https://help.ea.com/help/the-sims/the-sims-3/troubleshoot-the-sims-3-mac More Topics I need help and information on Java. https://help.ea.com/article/java-help-and-information I need help downloading and installing Store and Exchange content. http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/3384 How do Hairs and Clothing apply across different age groups? http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/3290 Why am I seeing a Windows SafeDisc error? https://help.ea.com/help/pc/windows-safedisc-error-when-playing-ea-games Will The Sims 3 games on mobile continue to be supported? https://help.ea.com/help/the-sims/ea-is-retiring-our-older-the-sims-games-on-mobile What are The Sims 4 Rewards and how do I get them? https://help.ea.com/article/the-sims-4-rewards97KViews1like0CommentsSims 3 and Windows 8 - An Analysis
Hey guys, I'm really curious to why some people have no issues at all and others can't even start the game. It seems, that people with the 32 bit version have no issues, 64 bit seems to be a different matter. Let us try to get to the bottom of this, so the devs can do the adjustments needed. Please answer the questions below and try to described your issue as thorough as possible. Make sure you have the newest drivers and all updates possible - What version of Windows 8 are you running ? - Do you have the 32 bit Version or the 64 bit one ? - Did you buy a new Computer and got Windows 8 on that or did you install it on your old machine ? - Which of the EPs/SPs do you have installed ? - What Patch level are you at (base game) ? - Do you have any Store content or CC/mods added ? - Did you try out any of the beta/consumer preview versions and did you have any issues with those ? - What graphic card do you have and which driver version are you running ? - What symptoms are you seeing (try to be as detailed as possible) - Anything else you like to add. Everyone with Windows 8 can post here, whether they have issues or not69KViews0likes192CommentsOSX Lion and TS3 - Patch released, fixes graphics issue, causes problems with Town Life, GURUS?
Update 04.10.11 - Please see my recent comment about compatibility: http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/list/930/413974.page#6535798 VERY IMPORTANT - Please DO NOT follow any instructions given by EA support if they advise you to do the following: - reset the SMC - reformat your hard drive - take out your graphics card - quit processes in Activity Monitor These instructions are extremely ill advised by EA. Not only will they not solve the problem, they could result in permanent damage to your Mac. UPDATE - 02.09.11: The latest patch for the Base Game, 1.25, appears to have fixed the freezing problem for users with the 9400M and 320M graphics cards. Can someone please update me with regards to the Intel 3000 card? It also appears that the patch is borked and forces users to uninstall and reinstall the base game and all EPs/SPs. Possible workarounds: - Install Snow Leopard on an external hard drive: http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/list/435/413974.page#5962866 http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/list/585/413974.page#6005687 - Install Windows in Boot Camp and play in Windows Graphics Card Problem - NVIDIA GeForce 9400, NVIDIA GeForce 320M & Intel HD Graphics 3000 These three integrated cards seem to be the main problem. It appears that if you install the base game but DO NOT UPDATE, it will work on machines running Lion with the 9400 and 320m graphics cards. For a more detailed explanation please look at Snapdragon's excellent response here: RafaGzmn - NVIDIA GeForce 9400M 256 (working because he has not updated the base game with any patches) WORKING BluebellFlora - NVIDIA GeForce 9600M GT 256 rad1 - ATI Radeon HD 5670 keyx9y - Intel GMA X3100 144 ExclamationKate - NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M 256 tomkemp4 - ATI Radeon HD 2600 Pro 256MB Boogieoggie12 - NVIDIA GeForce 9600M GT 512 nghtstr - ATI radeon HD 2600 Pro 256 nickali - NVIDIA GeForce GT 330M 512 Figwit - ATI Radeon HD 4850 512 NOT WORKING BluebellFlora - NVIDIA GeForce 9400M 256 christeljayne - NVIDIA GeForce 9400M 256 Pcd1love2u - NVIDIA Geforce 9400M 256 karlo_29 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 SoPrettyAshley - NVIDIA GeForce 9400M 256 Guyepst - NVIDIA GeForce 9400M 256 rad1 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400M sarahh729 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 Tailfinz - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 Krivo66 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400M 256 simssims2sims3 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 DavidJBeck - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 e01000101 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400M 256 rulerofmyheart - NVIDIA GeForce 9400M 256 oiNiallo - NVIDIA GeForce 9400M 256 classicylady87 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400M 256 mzriskalot - NVIDIA GeForce 9400M 256 Rockernat - NVIDIA GeForce 9400M 256 Srgrdst77 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400M 256 schencker - NVIDIA GeForce 9400M 256 cathycake - NVIDIA GeForce 9400M 256 Gwfct - NVIDIA GeForce 9400M 256 GuitarManiac15 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400M 256 Smurfy96 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400M 256 sarahh729 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400M 256 CJSmith241 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 Viktoreah - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 BillieChiasson - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 lafille19 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 musicnut07 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 crazy4music2006 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 Windrifter - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 lknic1 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 QueenDivetta - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 Icesplash - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 xtianne05 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 Flyinggfish - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 ivanv15 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 kquinn1990 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 kimbalena - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 okapi9 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 themostserene - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 christeljayne - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 Flattermann - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 Geoffafa - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 mmcginnis1980 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 Jarrrrod - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 MoyWilliams - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 chelinka - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 lisavk - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 chloewatson - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 dtiovene - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 girlabouttown123 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 CassadyM - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 lafille19 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 Znijnz - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 dani_8778 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 stbnchristine - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 Selene047 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 kiwicalabaza - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 5simoleans5 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 scgoan - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 objectionform - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 bijousox - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 Sashanbey - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 Amagon - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 connex22601 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 WRFTSG - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 LadyMelda - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 susabellia - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 palmtreecod - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 fencenator - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 ArchonX77 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 khimo - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 ageofquarrel - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 Derfel - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 zray1130 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 Myrsinie - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 max211 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 Bearpawd - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 cmc42 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 FROZYO - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 Sawild - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 Crazykate515 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 101HAMSTERLOVER101 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 onioni - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 amitkhanna22 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 eluve59 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 beelikethat33 - NVIDIA GeForce 9400 256 jsfst2727 - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 EryennDrakkar - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 SNCAm - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 COCOABRAVO - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 xamago - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 danieljorgensen - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 NickyDuvyrda - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 Yingerpoof - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 MunchinKayT123 - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 Zarah888 - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 ladydarby - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 Britterbean3322 - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 eclipsetrixxz - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 urbanel0quence - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 chry3 - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 chazzymc - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 918273645ams - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 Zachary3502 - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 DrCarmody - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 isk8ny - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 Loulouise955 - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 sagehayley - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 GuiSpiller - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 kinleighsage - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 LUCASLITTLEWOOD - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 Tectonical - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 tipsy318 - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 danicajane - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 kds786 - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 dotflo - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 Mari - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 lorelle - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 lbarraclough - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 k12kwd - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 waychu987 - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 Raquel2224 - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 Lexliex - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 CPTDSHACK - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 missolli3 - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 Kelad0700 - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 SoundtheDudelsack - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 khimo - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 quadACEdeux - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 scamandered - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 willynee1995 - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 DreamJob49 - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 caleb1993 - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 breezy492 - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 Tim4ever02 - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 as.hads - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 matteochirco - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 mikey85875 - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 CamMark - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 xkylaxxreneex - NVIDIA GeForce 320M 256 theanaa - Intel HD Graphics 3000 384 matheusmafra - Intel HD Graphics 3000 384 silenttoast - Intel HD Graphics 3000 384 Mythago68 - Intel HD Graphics 3000 384 KierahCampbell11 - Intel HD Graphics 3000 384 beelikethat33 - ATI Radeon H 5750 The Patch which brings the base game up to 1.24 DOES NOT fix this graphics card problem. 15" & 17" MacBook Pro users If you have one of the following MacBook Pros go to System Preferences > Energy Saver and switch to the higher performance card: 15" Late 2008, Model Identifier 5,1 17" Early & mid 2009, Model Identifier 5,2 15" Mid 2009, Model Identifier 5,3 The 2010 & 2011 models should be fine working on the integrated (better battery life) cards. If not, follow the steps above to switch cards. If you would like to post your specs here I'll happily add them to the above list.47KViews0likes685CommentsA Mac User's Best Friend!/PLEASE READ BEFORE POSTING ANY NEW PROBLEM THREADS!!!!!!
First of all, I'd really like to thank BlueBellFlora for all the work, time and patience that she has put into researching and putting together many tips and tricks for the Mac users. This is a Mac user's Best Friend. Read this thread before posting any problems and I'm sure you'll find an answer to your question or concern. Caspinwall, itsaprilXD and tamalinn also have contributed to this thread and many guides other as well. http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/658546/latest-mac-help-threads-guides-please-start-here-before-posting-a-problem-updated-27-07-14/p1 The next thread is from caspinwall and details problems and solutions with using Origin. Yes, Origin does work on the Mac side. Yes, it is your best friend if you lose your disk and have registered your game. If there is a problem with a game not showing up in your Origin account and you have registered it, you will need to contact EA support. http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/727857/collecting-information-about-origin-on-mac/p1 And lastly not to toot my own horn, here is a thread about how to patch your game correctly and safely. I am patched to the current patch 1.67 and run all of the EP's and SP's as well as a lot of Store items and sets. My game is stable and runs fine. I haven't tried to run it on high graphics settings lately, but I'm sure it will run fine. http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/740366/how-to-update-your-game-when-a-new-patch-is-released#latest We have another thread here that may help with the Disk Authentication Errors that several folks have had. It leads to the EA Help Forums. http://answers.ea.com/t5/The-Sims-3/MAC-Disk-Verification-Error/m-p/3106024#M163986 If you are trying to play Sims 3 on a newer Macbook, here is a list of the new Macs which have the Iris Intel Graphics cards. Please be advised that Sims 3 does NOT recognize this brand of graphics card and you may experience weird graphics or the game may not start at all. There is a workaround since Sims 3 will never be updated again. http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/840249/macs-that-have-intel-iris-graphics#latest So Mac users, join me in thanking these wonderful people who have researched and tested these solutions. I know I really appreciate all their hard work and time to write these guides. :D EDIT as of April 2018: Newer MacBooks have a hard time running this game with all the EPs/SPs. You can maybe run with the Base Game and a couple of EPs installed. Be warned that Seasons and Pets are usually the two that will give you the most trouble due to the intense graphics these EPs offer. Since the release of El Capitan (Mac OS version), physical disks will no longer be recognized. You will have to play the digital version of the game through Origin. If you are the original owner of the disk, you can register the CD key at Origin for free and your digital copy will appear in your library. No need to repurchase the game. If you find that the game does not run as you hoped on the Mac OS, try Bootcamping your Mac and running it through the Windows OS.43KViews1like344Comments[Error Analysis] Sim can't return home
I tried out some games and it comes all down to game corruption. Multiple things can happen, leaving the game corrupted. There's a few things one can try like swapping out the Uni files but the best option is to use mods. Traveler, Overwatch and ErrorTrap are your best friends. I won't be looking into this any further. It's not my job and if EA doesn't decided to fix this or at least address this issue, there's nothing I can do about it. You're still welcome to post here of course and maybe this thread IS monitored by the gurus but my work is done here. I've updated my blog but that is all I can do. I now officially give up. http://www.abload.de/img/blue2-rule-04l-whitevxcj.gif A common issue seems to be that Sims either can't go to the graduation in properly in the first place or that they don't return home afterwards and don't get their extra trait either Symptoms - Sim can't invite friends/family to the party --> Jumping issue - Sims don't make it inside the building cause of the queue there - Something else is screwing up the process and Sims just stay in the Uni world without an option to go back home I don't think this issue is mod related. Sounds more like corruption. Because of this issue, I recommend saving your game under a different name before your Sims graduate. If the Sim can't go home, no use in trying to play that game. Precautions for University Life I'm doing this thread together with ceejay402 and we're going to update the first two posts whenever one of us has the time. It's easier this way. Questions - Are you using mods or did you do so before installing UL ? - Are you playing a game you started before UL or did you start a new one ? - Are you playing with a fresh Sim or did you import one from the library ? - Were you able to go to graduation or did all go wrong before ? - Are you able to invite friend/family ? - Did Sims you invite attend the graduation ? - Do you have any duplicate Sims in your relationship bar ? - For how many terms did your sim go to Uni ? 1 or 2 ? - Try to describe as detailed as possible what happens http://www.abload.de/img/blue2-rule-04l-whitevxcj.gif Clarification You need to have 48 credits to finish your degree and get a graduation. You don't get one after every semester but only after doing all credits. What we know so far - Inviting Sims can seriously screw up the game. Sometimes the Sims will duplicate in your relationship panel causing the Sim and the phone to become non-clickable. For the moment, don't invite anyone. - You can try the Dropping out option to see if that helps your Sim get home if he was left behind (thanks stormwench) - It's probably not caused by mods but I think it's one of this issue where this isn't a bug as such but the symptom of one. Many things can probably trigger it, even a mod - There's a mixture of issue. Some don't get their degrees cause of the queues, some have Sims screwing up (double relationship issue) and for some the graduation goes fine but they can't get home. http://www.abload.de/img/blue2-rule-04l-whitevxcj.gif That's all for the moment. Your DxDiag is not needed. This is not a computer issue. Solutions welcome of course.43KViews0likes142CommentsMac help threads & guides - PLEASE START HERE BEFORE POSTING A PROBLEM - *updated 05.06.15*
These threads and guides are not definitive nor exhaustive but they have proved extremely popular on my website and do seem to have helped frustrated Simmers along the way. The locked 'help' thread on here by simguruhydra has not been updated in over 4 years. Unfortunately us Mac Simmers have to help each other as EA do not offer much support for OS X, if any. If you receive advice from Customer Support to quit Processes on your Mac PLEASE ignore it. For a detailed explanation please read this. If you are not familiar with Macs or need a little help with how they work, please read Apple's support pages. This is a good place to start: https://www.apple.com/uk/support/macbasics/ This is a forum for The Sims 3, not how to use a Mac :) You may also find Crinrict's blog helpful. She has provided amazing technical support for The Sims 3 and her blog pretty much covers every known issue with the game. It is primarily a blog for Windows users but her work arounds and tips, where possible in OS X, can be invaluable. You can find her blog here: http://sims3.crinrict.com/en/ http://bluebellflora.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/seperator.jpg Whenever you play the game you should play in windowed mode: To do this hold down CMD and press Return when the main game window launches. In the highly likely event of your game freezing/hanging you can then click anywhere on the desktop and go to the Apple logo, top left, and select Force Quit. This will save you having to power off your Mac using the power switch (which can damage the HD). Tabbing between apps you have open doesn't always work when you have the game running, hence the need to play in windowed mode. http://bluebellflora.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/seperator.jpg Saving and Quitting: ALWAYS pause your game and then Save. DO NOT Save & Quit. It is also a good idea to purge your RAM before you attempt to save. If your game is hanging or crashing whilst saving, and you have saved as recommended, then try your game without any CC/Mods. There is no magical perfect solution for the Save problems - please don't expect one! http://bluebellflora.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/seperator.jpg Patching - VERY IMPORTANT: If you play with Mods, these must be moved out prior to patching. You should then update your Mods accordingly. Tremayne4260 has written a fantastic guide on patching and the safest way to update your game here: How to Update your game when a New Patch is Released EA's links to manual superpatches (cumulative manual updates) is here. It's worth noting that the superpatches can become corrupted so if at first it doesn't work, redownload and try again (delete all remnants of the previous download and failed installation) - don't just give up after the first try! http://bluebellflora.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/seperator.jpg CC & Mods: I don't use any CC and only use Nraas ErrorTrap but here's a super duper guide on where to install CC and Mods to, courtesy of @itsaprilXD. http://bluebellflora.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/seperator.jpg Primary things to try first (especially if your Launcher doesn't open or your game will not load): - The first step to trying to figure out how to get your game working again is to try a new game, without any CC, mods, saves etc. This will help figure out if your install is dodgy or you have corrupted data. Doing this is simple, open your Documents folder then open the Electronic Arts folder. You will see one folder in there called The Sims 3. Drag this to the desktop DO NOT DELETE IT. This folder holds all your game data like downloaded content, saves and everything precious to your game. - Now, fire up your game (it regenerates the folder you just moved) and see if you can play with a new Sim in a new world. Make sure you open CAS and make sure you try out Build/Buy mode. Try playing for at least an hour or so. If that works then the installed game and EPs/SPs is fairly stable so the issue lies somewhere within the folder you moved out. The difficult part is figuring out where the problem is within the data. You will need to move back your CC/Saves/Downloads/Mods etc. bit by bit from the folder you moved out to the newly generated folder to work out where the problem lies. - To put your game back to how it was (not working presumably if you had to just do that step!), navigate through to the Electronic Arts folder again and trash the Sims 3 folder the game just recreated. Put your old folder, the one you moved to the desktop, back in it's place. Navigate to the Electronic Arts folder again, this time opening The Sims 3 folder. Trash the following files: CASPartCache.package compositorCache.package scriptCache.package simCompositorCache.package socialCache.package Now try loading your game again. These files are regenerated. If you want to know more about your game's user folder have a look here on the Sims Wiki page. All the individual files and folders are explained. Tremayne4260 has posted some great tips on trying to get your game going in this post. http://bluebellflora.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/seperator.jpg Constant crashing: If your game is constantly crashing you're probably running out of RAM during gameplay. This is due to Cider not being able to access more than 2Gb RAM. You need to manually free up your Mac's RAM so the game always has access to more memory. You can download various Apps to do this or you can do it yourself VERY easily using Terminal which is already built into OS X. Links provided below under Resetting RAM. http://bluebellflora.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/seperator.jpg Downloaded content not showing up: If your Store downloads aren't showing up in game try deleting the missingdeps.idx file (thanks to Crinrict), the game will regenerate a new one: Finder > Documents > Electronic Arts > The Sim 3 > DCCache > missingdeps.idx This isn't a sure fire fix as Origin seems to be causing a lot of issues with the Launcher but it's worth a try. For more info read Crinrict's blog post here. You must always make sure your Launcher is open before downloading Store content. http://bluebellflora.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/seperator.jpg Bypassing the Launcher: Bypassing the Launcher can sometimes resolve issues of, amongst other things, the game hanging on startup, crashing during the intro and the base game icon bouncing up and down in your Dock but nothing else happening. @Ashpeef has written great instructions on how to bypass here. http://bluebellflora.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/seperator.jpg Not able to login to the Launcher: This problem is REALLY irritating if you want to upload stuff to the Exchange and I am now experiencing it frequently since updating to patch 1.67. Logging in via the Main Menu screen or going through Options is an option that appears to work but it doesn't seem to carry through to the Launcher. Some suggestions from others have been to clear your internet cache and cookies. All I can recommend is to just keep trying and eventually, after several attempts, you will be logged in. http://bluebellflora.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/seperator.jpg My guides: How to do a clean uninstall and reinstall on a Mac Checking which patch version you're running Finding your serial key using Terminal Resetting RAM & How to monitor your RAM usage during gameplay Saving Origin digital downloads Disc Authorization Failure/No Disc errors Successfully installing Store content on a Mac http://bluebellflora.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/seperator.jpg Unfortunately, because the game is not natively written for OS X, it is not the most stable of programs to run on your Mac. To understand it a bit better have a look here: Understanding how The Sims 3 runs on a Mac http://bluebellflora.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/seperator.jpg For general maintenance you could try these steps: Get rid of MacKeeper if you have it, and some useful maintenance tips. You could also try resetting the PRAM and SMC settings on your Mac if you're experiencing odd issues like continuous, heavy fan activity, power management issues, resolution issues etc. Please make sure you read the following links before attempting a reset (instructions on how to reset are also in the links): PRAM reset - http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1379 SMC reset - http://support.apple.com/kb/HT3964 http://bluebellflora.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/seperator.jpg The only solution for a proper Simming experience on your Mac is to play it in Windows, the OS which the game was written for. For detailed instructions on how to install Windows on your Mac please read this thread: How to install Windows using Boot Camp http://bluebellflora.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/seperator.jpg Checking Exchange items and downloads for nasties (dodgy CC) - Julia526's Mono tutorial: How to use Delphys Dashboard and CUSTARD on Mac tutorial You can also analyse your crash logs using Mono and the MTS Crash Log Analyser @queueing's guide to using s3mpi and s3pe (also has a tutorial for mono and Delphys Dashboard): http://tencentsims.tumblr.com/post/94131114859/tutorial-for-mac-users-how-to-use-sims-3-dashboard And @tamalinn's excellent guide to using s3pe in Mavericks 10.9: http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/comment/13332347/#Comment_13332347 http://bluebellflora.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/seperator.jpg There are numerous errors Simmers encounter whilst playing. And unfortunately there is no common denominator as to why some can play and some can't. Two of us could have the exact same spec. Mac yet one can play and one can't. The most important thing to bear in mind is that 99% of the time it is not because there is a problem with your Mac, it is Cider. http://bluebellflora.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/seperator.jpg Common error threads on this forum: Error 65538: 15000 (Unable to download from Origin) - thanks to @katoo4 for posting the link to a solution. My game keeps freezing Error Code 12 Custom Content not showing up in game Disc Authorisation Failure & here Exception Raised Error Blacked out CAS Can't start game process Ghosting images then crash to desktop Thumbnail images showing red lines in Build/Buy mode, CAS, Main Menu http://bluebellflora.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/seperator.jpg Known graphics issues: Intel Iris & Intel Iris Pro Graphics issues - tmethei has come up with a possible solution/workaround for this issue, see page 2 of the thread - A fix has now been found for the game not launching on Macs with Intel Iris, Intel Iris Pro, Intel HD 6000 and AMD Radeon R9 graphics cards. Please read my guide and select your Mac for further instructions. Graphics Glitches - NVIDIA GeForce GT cards identified - This issue has now been fixed with patch 1.63 - http://bluebellflora.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/seperator.jpg Error Code 12 Fix (takes you to external site - The Ever So Woderful Life of Zac M) How To overcome Save Error code 12 on The Sims 3 http://bluebellflora.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/seperator.jpg Installation freezing at a certain file number For those suffering from a frozen installer, please post on this thread so we can try, once and for all, to fix it. make sure all Preference files have been deleted from a previous install before attempting a new install. http://bluebellflora.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/seperator.jpg Origin issues Caspinwall and Tremayne have a great thread going about issues to do with Origin. Please post in it whether you're having problems or you know of any fixes to problems you've had: http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/727857.page http://bluebellflora.files.wordpress.com/2013/03/seperator.jpg OS X Yosemite (OS 10.10) Please see this dedicated thread for TS3 and Yosemite.42KViews1like308CommentsLags & Invisible, Frozen & Stuck Sims --> Post here if you have the issue.
Hi guys, A few links on the issue BUG: Frozen & Stuck Sims BUG: Invisible Sims BUG: Lags & Intermittent Freezes BUG: Crowd gatherings on community lots BUG: Crowds in front of the school Some more info can be found here: Late Night Bugs - Compiled List in first two posts There's also threads about this at MTS Game Help:UI and Sim Issues Missing Sims and/or User Interface Data collection and analysis: Intermittent Freezes and Lags Pics by AndreeAndree: http://www.flickr.com/photos/96179754@N00 If you have any problems regarding Sim Corruption, please post here: Blank or Missing Sim Icons, Missing UIs, Missing Interactions and Clones How to post your info in this thread Reading through your posts I decided it's probably best if everyone just writes down what ever they think important. There is a few info, that you should include though: 1. Basic System info (no DxDiag unless you are asked this info by a guru, they just make it hard to read through everything) - Processor - RAM - Graphic Card - OS 2. What Add-Ons do you have 3. Are you using Mods/CC - If you are using mods, please post the bigger ones (no need to list every single one) - If you have cc, how much do you have (little, moderate, a lot) 4. Do you have any other significant problems like crashing/save errors Also, if I ask you a question back and you answer, it would be great if you could quote the question. It's sometimes hard to keep track on who I asked what.35KViews0likes517Comments
bizarre cause of lag/freeze issue - 1st post updated 8/26/13
EDITED to add summary and note about greenhouse trellis spawners -- original post is below summary list and re-edited to add two more items to the list, plus CAW caution. PLEASE read the entire thread for very important details, including how to fix or avoid problems. Summary list of issues discussed in this thread, so far: Causes of Lag or Freezes 1. objects blocking driveways, like trees or shrubs 2. critters or sims spawned inside small fenced/bordered/enclosed areas (avoid "one space" enclosed gardens next to buildings and avoid "one space" gates or openings) 3. critters caught between the "V" at the base of two palm trees 4. horses that do not have two spaces of width to maneuver in or out of any area (including between palm trees, trees and buildings, anything enclosed, junk piles, etc) 5. critters who cannot maneuver off raised platforms, because they cannot back away far enough to turn around and get down 6. baby pets who cannot maneuver stairs 7. critters from spawners, who spawn under buildings, large rocks, etc 8. using "reset sim" without manually deleting abandoned cars (the reset sim gets a big lemon or jalopy car in their inventory, and their real car is left abandoned in the game) -- using "reset sim" at 3:00 am may reduce the problem of abandoned cars 9. too many spawners on a lot, no matter who made the lot (even EA lots have this problem) -- be sure to make a one tile basement, to check below ground for hidden spawners (for detailed information, see this thread: http://forum.thesims3.com/jforum/posts/list/523406.page) 10. spiral staircases placed before the Pets expansion, that have not been turned or replaced since then 11. fancy method of making an entrance with archways (this makes the actual front door and "inside door" which means sims cannot ring the doorbell, and it will cause other routing issues, as well) 12. too many memories accumulated in older games 13. an old hood, that has accumulated too many errors, even just as a result of normal game play 14. added by Sincerbox: Avoid using the "Take Photo with Friend" interaction. I am sure everyone knows it was broken with a patch and that sims will just stand and stare at one another. But the problem is that it leaves an invisible rug behind that blocks those tiles the sims were standing on in the game. 15. Using the World Editor to add empty lots where no lot ever existed before or using the World Editor to remove trees/rocks/signs and etc, from non-lot areas of a world will punch a hole in the world layer, causing routing issues, which can cause lag. 16. anything that causes game corruption (see list below) Causes of Game Corruption 1. deleting ANY sim that EA put in the game, whether dead or alive, ghost or urn or tomb, pet or simmie (these sims are coded directly into world layers, and deleting them "shatters/fragments" their coding, leading to game corruption, at its most basic levels) EA sims are NOT regular sims/ghosts/critters/ghost critters -- they are coded into the game layers and have back-stories that keep calling on deep game coding--removing them is NOT an option 2. deleting a lot that has an occupied urn or tomb on it (some are even hidden in attics) 3. deleting EA graveyards (graveyard ghosts are NOT regular ghosts -- they are coded into the game layers and have back-stories that keep calling on deep game coding--removing them is NOT an option) 4. placing too many lots with the in-game world editor tool (it breaks a key component used in world creation, that can only be fixed in CAW, which means a saved game is broken beyond repair) -- an increasingly worsening problem with every expansion since LN) 5. using "moveobjects on" for any object that has a sim interaction, like chairs, beds, bookshelves, tables, etc (plants, rugs, or things that can be placed on end tables are still safe, as of ST, but who knows if later expansions will further break the cheat) 6. trying to mix an old and "not patched up to date" game, with newer CC designed for up to date games 7. games without the latest update to Origin, Adobe flash player, Adobe air and/or games with old video card drivers 8. using awesome mod to "destroyallhumans" IF the mod is subsequently removed from the game (it apparently works fine if you continue to use awesome mod with that saved game, to the best of our knowledge, as of today) 9. moving sims with "moveobjects on" (resetting the Sim usually solves the issue -- corruption does not spread) 10. editing an in-game sim in CAS by using the testingcheatsenabled menu, if you try to change traits, favorites, skin tone or body sliders and possibly even star sign (modifying/editing anything on the sim's head is safe, as is changing clothes/makeup/hair/accessories) 11. adding corrupted lots or sims to new games 12. adding lots with corrupted CC to new games 13. reported by Writin_Reg: leaving testingcheats enabled true and buydebug on running all the time will corrupt the game, ever since the IP patch or IP game was installed -- once the world is corrupt, not even lots in that world can be reused in other worlds without causing further corruption to spread Other Issues 1. clock stopping issue (the clock does not update) that is usually caused by an 'alarm' not being able to fire properly (not really a lag, since everything else still continues) 2. stuck baby/missing sim issue (to fix, go to edit town and move the entire household to the clipboard by evicting just the family, then move them back into their house which will reset the whole house and will not cause anyone to disappear -- make sure when you can get out of game after fixing them, you delete the 4 caches that like to hold corruption in your game, so that instance is gone permanently from your game and can't corrupt your saves) Note to CAW users: 1. added by Writin_Reg: If you change a lot from residential to community and there does happen to be a grave on the lot - it will not hurt anything if you don't move the grave out as EA has the ghost okay on both residential and community lots. It is also safe to load these lots to your library and use them else where as long as you never use these lots when building a world in CAW because of the ghost which will corrupt a world in CAW. You can instead offer the lot as a separate download for people to add to a world. EDIT: I just want to add a quick note about a certain type of spawner that you will definitely run across if you download lots using the garden trellis that came with the greenhouse venue (the one that auto-waters your garden, with the composter on the one side). The garden trellis has a seed spawner attached to it, under the composter, on the one side. That spawner has a "Do Not Use" (or something very similar to that -- I don't have my game open to check the exact wording) notation. It is a spawner, and so it multiplies like any other spawner. But it also has one other attribute: the special spawner regenerates where ever the garden trellis is located. So, for instance, if you try to delete the garden trellis "Do Not Use" spawner that is under the composter in the garden trellis it seems to delete like normal -- but, the trellis will automatically regenerate the spawner in that same location, the next time you open your lot. What this means is that it is impossible to remove that particular spawner before uploading a lot to the exchange. It will always regenerate when the lot using the garden trellis is installed in the game. And it will always multiply if the lot is rotated. Even the greenhouse venue downloaded from the store has the problem. In fact, that lot is loaded with extra spawners, because someone on the store team forgot to remove the extras before uploading it. It should only have ONE of those spwaners right under the composter. All the extras should have been deleted before the lot was uploaded by the store team. So, from the standpoint of the user, you should definitely delete any of these "Do Not Use" type spawners from any lot EXCEPT for the one spawner under the composter. There should be ONE of those. But lift it up to see if several of them are nested one on top of the other. Delete any extras. You only need one. All of which means that anytime you see a garden trellis from the greenhouse venue on any lot you download, do a testingcheatsenabled true and buydebug on so you can locate and delete any extra garden trellis spawners from that lot. The creator of the lot is not responsible for those extra spawners, because the creator cannot delete them prior to uploading. It will be up to the user to make sure only one exists on the lot, after placement. Original post below: I just discovered a bizarre cause for lag/freeze issues. It is hard to believe .... I was merrily testing one set in my test home (in my no mod, no other CC, vanilla game), while making a collection folder. All was normal. I filled a room with the Club Casual set. Then I took out all the objects for the new Prius free set and the Prius archive set, which I had just downloaded and installed along with the Club Casual set, placing the eco objects on the grass. I plopped down a couple driveways and compared the regular Prius to the electric Prius (they look almost identical). I deleted the two cars. I deleted the windmill and a couple other largish objects that were in the way. I went back inside the house to finish testing the first set, and noticed my sim was freezing every couple minutes. Some lags/freezes were fairly prolonged. My heart sank. What in the set was causing this? I thought back to what I had done, just prior to noticing the problem. Taking out Prius objects and then deleting them should not have caused a problem. It must be an object from Club Casual, but I had never noticed a problem prior to this, and I've used many objects from the set, before. I quit the game, and restarted it. Still lagging/freezing. I deleted the rest of the Prius sets. No change. I saved, and quit the game. I removed the DCCache and the DCBackup. Everything I had installed was now out of the game, both the original set I was testing and the two Prius sets that I had just downloaded and installed. My game was vanilla, with all the expansions and stuff packs. No mods, no cheats, no CC at all. I opened the game and got the "missing objects" notice. I deleted all the objects that had replaced the previous set objects. The upper floor of the test home was empty. The game still lagged/froze. I was stymied. Was the lot corrupt? I zoomed out -- and then I saw it. One of the driveways I had so quickly plopped down, to compare the two car versions, had a tree in the middle of it. I had not seen the tree when I placed the driveways, because I had been zoomed in far enough that the tree "disappeared." I removed the driveways. No more lag. No more freezes. The game played perfectly. I find this unbelievable. How could a tree in the middle of a driveway cause such a horrendous problem? What about that situation would cause a game to freeze like that, repeatedly? Oh, and before you assume that it was a routing issue for my sim, she was just trying to play her guitar, fix a meal, read a book, sit on a couch. Nothing to do with cars or driveways. No sims visited during the time I experienced the issue. No cars tried to park in the driveways. I didn't even notice a sim running on the sidewalk in front of the lot. I do not claim to have any idea what was happening, or why. But as long as the tree remained in the middle of the driveway, I had the problems, and when I deleted the driveways, the problem was gone. A very probable case of cause and effect, because if it wasn't that, then just the placement of a driveway caused the issue, and I very much doubt merely having a driveway on the lot would be the cause. I thought maybe some of you people with lags/freezes might want to know that the cause may be something as off the wall as what just happened to me. Maybe a tree or bush is too close to your driveway. This game is so touchy ....28KViews1like399Comments
CAP Demo - ♦ Issues & Solutions Here ♦ - New CAP Demo Available - See First Post
:!: Update 9/27/11 - SimGuruGraham has confirmed that there is a new Demo available for download which fixed the Store Content uninstalling issue. More info and solutions available on Crinrict's Blog Post here. If you have lost your Sims 3 Store Content, see this thread: Uninstalled Custom/Store Content after installing Create-a-Pet Demo -- An Analysis MOD Users! Twallan has posted the following message. Please note that MODs are not compatible with the Pets DEMO My mods are *NOT* compatible with the Create-A-Pet Demo, and I do not intend to do any work to make them so (I will be waiting until the full Expansion is released). In order to get the application to work on my setup, it was necessary to rename the "The Sims 3" folder in your "My Documents" to "The Sims 3.old". At the minimum though, you *must* rename the "Mods" folder to "Mods.old" to hide them while you are running Create-A-Pet. Change the folder name back when you intend to play the full game. ---- WARNING: Due to issues with uninstalling the Demo product, it is advised that you back-up your content folders prior to running Create-A-Pet for the first time. Renaming the entire "The Sims 3" My Documents folder (as mentioned above) should stop any badness from occurring. ♦ First and foremost please understand that this CAP demo is inter-connected with your existing Sims 3 Game. If you are installing it n a computer with current Sims Games please BACK UP & SAVE your current games & Store Content. ♦ Second, you need to treat this Demo as a patch, all MODS and CC need to be removed from your game. The Demo is part patch and has installed new folders in the game file. Two new game files have been created with this Demo. Collections and SavedOutfits ♦ If you are going to install this Demo, please install it on a separate computer (without your games) until more info about the issues is tested and reported back. ♦ You will now have TWO Launchers One for the CAP Demo and one for your game. Please report the following info. 1- Issue(s) you are having/noticing since installing the Demo 2- Windows or MAC & which Operating System 3- Do you have any new Game Folders in your Game File? Documents > Electronic Arts > The Sims 3 Specifically these two: Collections and SavedOutfits or any others? 4- Do you have MODS? 5- What language is your Sims 3 game? 6- What language is your CAP Demo? 7- Are your games Digital or Physical Discs? ♦ Please see the 3rd post of this thread for solutions to help your game.24KViews0likes295Comments
