In the vast world of simulation games, The Sims 4 has garnered both praise and criticism. While many players have found enjoyment in creating and controlling their virtual lives, others have voiced concerns about the perceived emptiness and lack of content in the game. In this article, we will delve into the specific aspects that players feel are missing from The Sims 4 and the depth they desire.
One of the most common complaints revolves around the limited depth of the base game, particularly in terms of the personality system. Players have expressed a desire for more complexity and uniqueness in their sims' personalities. They long for a system that goes beyond surface-level traits, allowing for intricate relationships, marriage dynamics, and even the possibility of cheating. The inclusion of consequences and difficulties would add depth to the gameplay, creating a more immersive experience.
Another issue that has been raised is the reliance on expansion packs to enhance the overall gameplay experience. While the base game can still be enjoyed for free, players often find themselves needing to purchase additional packs to truly breathe life into their sims. Some argue that certain packs, such as Seasons or the fitness pack, should have been included in the base game rather than being sold separately. The cost of these packs can be prohibitive, making it difficult for players to fully enjoy the game without spending a significant amount of money.
Furthermore, players have highlighted missed opportunities and a lack of attention to detail in certain expansion packs. For instance, the High School Years pack introduced the concept of attending school with teenage sims, but players found the interactions and activities during school hours to be limited. They yearned for more options, such as asking questions, passing notes, or even starting food fights during lunchtime. Additionally, the game was criticized for its lack of interactivity with the wider world, with many activities being reduced to mere "rabbit holes" instead of allowing players to fully engage with them.
Lastly, the autonomy of sims in The Sims 4 has been a point of contention for players. In previous iterations of the game, sims would autonomously engage in activities based on their personalities and take care of their needs without constant direction from the player. However, in The Sims 4, players often feel the need to micromanage every action and decision, resulting in a less immersive and autonomous gameplay experience. The lack of significant consequences and reactions from other sims, particularly in situations like cheating, further contributes to this feeling of diminished autonomy.
In conclusion, while The Sims 4 has its merits, it falls short of meeting the expectations set by its predecessors in terms of depth and content. The base game is seen as limited, with the need to purchase expensive expansion packs to unlock more gameplay options. Missed opportunities, lack of attention to detail, and the absence of an intricate personality system all contribute to the feeling of emptiness in the game. Despite these criticisms, there are still players who find enjoyment in The Sims 4, but for those seeking a richer and more immersive simulation experience, it may be worth considering other options.
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