When it comes to adding modifications and custom content to The Sims 1, the actual process is relatively straightforward. However, the challenge lies in figuring out where exactly each file needs to be placed. Depending on the nature of the content you’re downloading, the files may need to be stored in different locations.
It’s crucial to know the proper placement of each file, as incorrect placement can result in the content not showing up in the game or potentially causing glitches. Take the time to research and understand where each file should go to ensure a seamless and enjoyable Sims 1 experience with your newly added content.
Locating The Sims 1 Downloads Folder
To add custom content and mods to The Sims 1, it’s essential to locate the Downloads folder within the Program Files directory, rather than the Documents folder as in later versions of the game. It’s important to exercise caution when navigating the Program Files directory, as making incorrect changes to game installation files can result in unintended consequences.
But don’t worry, with the guidance of this tutorial, modding The Sims 1 will be a breeze. For most users, the default location of The Sims 1 Downloads folder is:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Maxis\The Sims\Downloads
In the event that you have installed The Sims to a custom location on your computer and can’t recall where that was, you can simply right-click on the desktop shortcut to The Sims, navigate to Properties, and select Find Target. This will reveal the file path to the game files.
Installing Your Mods and CC
The installation process for mods and CC in The Sims 1 is relatively straightforward. The process involves placing the downloaded files into the appropriate folder.
However, the challenge arises from identifying the correct folder for the type of content you wish to install. The location of the appropriate folder can vary depending on the specific mods and CC being downloaded.
Objects
Custom objects for The Sims 1 are typically saved as either.IFF or .FAR file types. If you have downloaded files with either of these extensions, they should be placed in the following folder:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Maxis\The Sims\Downloads
It’s worth noting that you have the option of organizing your custom objects into subfolders. However, it’s recommended not to go too deep with subfolders, even if you own every expansion pack. This is because having too many subfolders can make it difficult to find the content you’re looking for, so it’s best to keep it to one or two levels deep for ease of access.
Bodies and Heads
Custom skins and faces in The Sims 1 are referred to as Bodies and Heads. These customizations typically come in the form of .BMP, .CMX, and .SKN file types. If you have downloaded custom bodies or heads with any of these file extensions, they should be placed in the following folder:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Maxis\The Sims\GameData\Skins
It’s important to note that custom bodies and heads cannot be placed in subfolders. If you place these files in a subfolder, the game will not be able to read them. Therefore, it’s essential to ensure that these files are placed directly in the Skins folder without any subfolders.
Walls
Custom walls for The Sims 1 are saved with the .WLL file extension. If you have downloaded custom walls with this file type, they should be placed in the following folder:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Maxis\The Sims\GameData\Walls
It’s worth noting that you have the option of organizing your custom walls into subfolders. However, it’s recommended not to go too deep with subfolders, even if you own every expansion pack. This is because having too many subfolders can make it difficult to find the content you’re looking for, so it’s best to keep it to one or two levels deep for ease of access.
Floors
Custom floors for The Sims 1 have the file extension .FLR. If you have downloaded custom floors with this file type, they should be placed in the following folder:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Maxis\The Sims\GameData\Floors
Similar to other types of custom content, you can organize your custom floors into subfolders. However, it’s recommended not to go too deep with subfolders to avoid making it difficult to find the content you’re looking for. Keeping it to one or two levels deep is ideal for easy access.
Roofs
When it comes to customizing roofs in The Sims 1, you’ll need to make sure you have the right file type: .BMP. Once you’ve obtained a custom roof file with this extension, it’s time to place it in the correct folder, which is located here:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Maxis\The Sims\GameData\Roofs
It’s important to keep in mind that roof files cannot be stored in subfolders. This is because the game won’t be able to read any custom roof files stored within subfolders. So, to ensure that your custom roofs are properly recognized and displayed in-game, make sure they’re directly placed within the Roofs folder.
Lots
The installation of custom lots in The Sims 1 can be slightly complicated, but it’s manageable once you’re familiar with the folder structure. The downloaded lots are usually saved as .IFF files, which must be placed in the Houses folder located within the UserData folder corresponding to the desired neighborhood.
The UserData folders are numbered and correspond to the different neighborhoods in the game, namely:
UserData – Neighborhood 1
UserData2 – Neighborhood 2
UserData3 – Neighborhood 3
UserData4 – Neighborhood 4
UserData5 – Neighborhood 5
UserData6 – Neighborhood 6
UserData7 – Neighborhood 7
UserData8 – Neighborhood 8
Thus, depending on the neighborhood to which you want to add the custom lots to, the.IFF files can go in any of the aforementioned folders:
C:\Program Files (x86)\Maxis\The Sims\UserData\Houses
C:\Program Files (x86)\Maxis\The Sims\UserData1\Houses
C:\Program Files (x86)\Maxis\The Sims\UserData2\Houses
C:\Program Files (x86)\Maxis\The Sims\UserData3\Houses
C:\Program Files (x86)\Maxis\The Sims\UserData4\Houses
C:\Program Files (x86)\Maxis\The Sims\UserData5\Houses
C:\Program Files (x86)\Maxis\The Sims\UserData6\Houses
C:\Program Files (x86)\Maxis\The Sims\UserData7\Houses
C:\Program Files (x86)\Maxis\The Sims\UserData8\Houses
It’s important to keep in mind that when you install a custom lot in one of these folders, the game may ask you if you want to overwrite an existing file in the folder. Hence, it’s always recommended to create a backup of the folders listed above by copying and pasting them into another secure location on your computer before making any changes. This way, you can always restore the original lots if necessary.
Great job! You now have a good understanding of where to place all your mods and CC for The Sims 1. In case you’re having trouble finding some good mods and CC, you can always head over to this Sims 1 Resources page for some assistance. Happy Simming!