The Sims 1 + EPs Comprehensive Installation Guide
Last Updated: January 19, 2025
Source: The Sims Depot – Install Order of The Sims 1 + EPs
This guide consolidates every valuable piece of information, links, and references from the original tutorial to ensure you install The Sims 1 and its expansion packs (EPs) correctly.
General Guidelines
- Installation Order is Critical: Always follow the specified sequence to avoid glitches.
- Launching the Game: After installing, run the game using the disk of the last EP installed—not the base game disk—to ensure the latest content is active.
- Versions Matter: Different base game editions require different installation orders.
- Troubleshooting: Refer to the troubleshooting section below if you encounter issues during installation.
Installation Orders by Base Game Version
1. Original Sims 1.0 Disk
-
Order:
- The Sims (Base Game)
- Livin’ Large
- House Party
- Hot Date
- Vacation
- Unleashed
- Superstar
- Makin’ Magic
-
Note: Launch using the disk of the final EP installed.
2. Deluxe Version (The Sims Deluxe)
Includes the base game plus Livin’ Large.
-
Order:
- The Sims Deluxe (Base Game + Livin’ Large)
- House Party
- Hot Date
- Vacation
- Unleashed
- Superstar
- Makin’ Magic
-
Note:
- Use the Deluxe disk to launch up through Unleashed.
- For Superstar and Makin’ Magic, launch using their respective EP disks.
3. Double Deluxe Version
-
Order:
- The Sims Double Deluxe
- Hot Date
- Vacation
- Unleashed
- Superstar
- Makin’ Magic
-
Note: Follow this sequence to properly integrate all EPs.
4. Mega Deluxe Version
-
Order:
- The Sims Mega Deluxe
- Vacation
- Unleashed
- Superstar
- Makin’ Magic
-
Note: Begin with the Mega Deluxe disk, then install the remaining EPs as listed.
Additional Resources & References
Sim Eraser Tool by Maxis
Maxis released the Sim Eraser Tool as an official utility to clean up old registry entries related to The Sims 1 installations.
- Purpose:
- Registry Cleanup: Removes outdated registry data from previous installations and expansions.
- Installation Fixes: Helps resolve issues caused by incomplete uninstalls or reinstallations.
- Usage Tips:
- Recommended after uninstalling The Sims 1 or its expansions to prevent installation conflicts.
- Does not delete in-game Sims or affect save files.
- Use cautiously and always back up your system registry before running.
For more details and downloads, visit: The Sims Eraser Tool on Internet Archive.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
-
Installation Failures:
- Verify each EP is fully installed before proceeding to the next.
- Ensure you have administrative privileges during installation.
- Reinstall problematic EPs if errors occur.
-
Disk Errors:
- Confirm you’re launching the game with the correct disk.
- Clean the disks if there are scratches or smudges.
-
Compatibility Issues:
- Run the game in compatibility mode on modern operating systems.
- Check community forums for patches or mods addressing compatibility concerns.
FAQs
-
What if I installed an EP out of order?
Reinstall the affected EPs in the correct sequence to resolve glitches. -
How do I know which disk to launch?
Always launch using the disk corresponding to the last EP installed in your sequence. -
Can I mix base game versions?
No, each base game version (Original, Deluxe, Double Deluxe, Mega Deluxe) requires its specific installation order. -
Where can I find more help?
Visit the related tutorials and community forums on The Sims Depot for further assistance. -
How does the Sim Eraser Tool help me?
It allows you to safely clean old registry entries of any Sims 1 related expansions and or installations. Fixing some installation sequence problems
Changelog
- January 19, 2025:
- Released comprehensive guide including installation orders, additional resources, troubleshooting, FAQs, and changelog.
- Added a section on the Sim Eraser Tool by Maxis, detailing its purpose and usage.