The Sims 3 received an unexpected update this week, nearly 16 years after its initial release and a decade after its last official patch. The update, issued by Electronic Arts (EA), addresses a critical compatibility issue that has plagued players using newer 12th-generation Intel processors, which caused the game to crash on launch.
The patch, which updates the game to version 1.69 for Windows users via the EA App launcher, doesn’t introduce new content or gameplay changes. Instead, it provides an official fix for a problem that had previously been solved unofficially by modder LazyDuchess in 2022 through a community patch. Unfortunately, players using Steam have not yet received this update, leaving them reliant on third-party fixes.
While the update is welcomed by many, it has sparked concerns among the dedicated Sims 3 community. Over the years, players have amassed an extensive collection of mods and custom scripts, many of which are integral to the game’s experience. Some worry that the patch might inadvertently disrupt these modifications. Reddit user CowardlyCandy reassured fans that mods appear to remain unaffected, and a detailed guide has been shared to help players avoid the update if they wish to preserve their setup.
The decision to update a game as old as The Sims 3 has left some fans speculating about EA’s motivations. While The Sims 4 remains a juggernaut in the life simulation genre with over 30,000 concurrent players on Steam, The Sims 3 still retains a loyal fanbase. On Steam alone, it boasts a steady 1,000 to 2,000 concurrent players, with likely more on the EA App. Its longevity is a testament to the game’s enduring appeal, despite its age and technical challenges.
This patch highlights EA’s recognition of The Sims 3 community’s ongoing support and the importance of maintaining compatibility for legacy games. With such a robust fanbase keeping the game alive, this small update is a reminder of the game’s impact and the community’s resilience.
