The Sims Team released a significant update for The Sims 4 on Xbox One and PlayStation 4 on July 16, 2019 (v1.16). This patch brought exciting new features, additional content, and a long list of fixes, making it one of the most impactful updates for console players ahead of Island Living.
New Console Features
- Mouse & Keyboard Enhancements: Players can now bypass the “Press START” screen with a keyboard and mouse, making it possible to start and finish a session without using a controller.
- First Person Camera Options: A new setting in Game Camera allows players to disable head bob in first-person view, offering smoother gameplay for those prone to motion sickness.
- Paused Cheat Input: Entering cheats now pauses the game, giving players time to type without losing progress in their Sims’ daily lives.
Create-a-Sim Updates
A Randomize Traits button has been added to Create-a-Sim. This feature is perfect for players looking for a challenge or inspiration, allowing the game to automatically assign unexpected personality traits.
Free Lounge Chair
A portable lounge chair was added to the game, free for all players. It can be placed anywhere, making it easier for Sims to relax by the pool without needing to rush for a spot.
Pride Content
In collaboration with the It Gets Better Project, this update introduced Pride-themed items and inclusivity improvements:
- New Pride-inspired clothing, including rainbow leggings, bodysuits, and t-shirts.
- Decorative Pride flags for homes.
- Gender-neutral bathroom doors with a variety of color swatches.
Build Mode Improvements
- Stilt Foundations: Players can now build houses on stilts, perfect for tropical-inspired builds or creative lot designs.
- Extended Eaves: Roof customization was improved, allowing eaves to be extended further for greater flexibility.
Freelancer Career and Furniture
The new Freelancer Career allows Sims to become writers, artists, or programmers, working flexible gigs through agencies. Unlike traditional careers, Freelancers can set their own schedules and complete tasks from anywhere.
This update also introduced a free furniture set designed for home offices, including:
- Ladder-style bookcase
- Modern desk and chair
- FreeRoam laptop
- Decorative items such as a pen holder, robot model, and award plaques
New Clothing and Swatches
Sims received additional outfits, from layered sweaters and cardigans to flats and drawstring pants. On top of that, over 350 new color swatches were added across existing doors, giving builders more creative freedom.
New Lot Traits
- Clothing Optional: A venue-only trait where Sims are encouraged to go nude.
- Off-The-Grid: Removes access to power and running water, allowing Sims to live a low-cost, eco-friendly lifestyle.
Toddler and Swimming Additions
- New toddler swim diapers were added, designed for use with kiddie pools.
- Sims in pools can now use the Back Float interaction.
- Swimming now boosts Fitness skill faster and may come with fun surprises such as cramps.
Fishing Overhaul
Fishing received a complete system update, including:
- Joinable fishing and new social interactions.
- Notebook details with bait preferences.
- Rare fish catch improvements with the “Angle for Big Catch” ability.
- Ability to mentor other Sims in fishing.
- More fishing spots and unique world-based fish tuning.
Ceiling Fan Updates
- Ceiling fans now cool rooms if you own Seasons.
- Fans can also dry off damp Sims and be switched on or off.
- A new Ceiling Objects category was added in Build Mode for easier access.
Part-Time Jobs Expansion
Part-time jobs are no longer exclusive to teens. Sims of all ages, including young adults and elders, can now work part-time. Players can also assign two part-time jobs at once and select shifts to fit their schedules.
Bug Fixes and Adjustments
- This update resolved dozens of issues across the base game and various expansions. Some highlights include:
- Sims no longer remain stuck with an “at work” status when they are at home.
- Random late-night phone calls no longer disrupt Sims’ sleep.
- Easel, Sketchpad, and Lin-Z Smart Speaker bugs were fixed.
- Build Mode improvements include resizing rooms, drag-and-drop objects, and better camera controls with Mouse & Keyboard.
- Expansion-specific fixes addressed issues in Get to Work, City Living, Cats & Dogs, Seasons, Get Famous, StrangerVille, and more.
Final Thoughts
The Sims 4 Console Update (v1.16) released on July 16, 2019, was a landmark patch for Xbox One and PS4 players. With new features such as the Freelancer career, Pride content, stilt foundations, and an improved fishing system, alongside crucial bug fixes, it delivered both creativity and stability.
This update ensured that console players could enjoy a smoother, more inclusive, and feature-rich Sims experience.
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