The Sims 4: Cottage Living is a delightful expansion pack that invites players to take a step back from the modern hustle and embrace the serene countryside life. Released on July 22, 2021, it brings a range of exciting features, from raising farm animals to participating in local countryside fairs. Whether you’re a seasoned Simmer or new to the game, Cottage Living offers something for everyone, blending nostalgia with refreshing gameplay elements. Dive into pastoral perfection as Sims build their dream cottage life, grow oversized crops, engage with quirky villagers, and care for various charming animals.
Henford-on-Bagley – The New Countryside World
One of the key highlights of Cottage Living is the introduction of Henford-on-Bagley, a scenic rural world that perfectly captures the essence of a tranquil countryside. This world isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a living, breathing environment where Sims can grow closer to nature, meet locals, and participate in vibrant traditions.
- Neighborhoods: Henford-on-Bagley features three neighborhoods: Finchwick, Old New Henford, and The Bramblewood. Each area offers unique landscapes and properties that exude cottage-core vibes.
- Weekly Events: Don’t miss the Finchwick Fair, a weekly destination where Sims can showcase oversized crops, farm animals, and more. Compete for prizes and build relationships with villagers.
- The Bramblewood: This lush woodland area is home to Sophie the Snail, scenic ruins, and plenty of opportunities for foraging mushrooms and interacting with wild animals.
Community Connections
Villagers in Henford-on-Bagley add warmth and charm to the gameplay. Players can run errands for these lovable characters and learn their stories. Helping them can also yield rewards, such as rare items or useful gifts.
Wildlife and Nature Exploration
If you enjoy connecting with nature, Henford-on-Bagley is the perfect setting. Sims can take swims in rivers, explore hidden pathways, and discover the joy of rural simplicity.
Farm Animals and Wildlife – A Charming Addition
Cottage Living’s most talked-about feature is the inclusion of various farm animals and adorable wildlife. Whether you’re gathering fresh eggs or enjoying the company of rabbits, animals take center stage in this expansion pack.
- Chickens: Raise chickens on your lot, collect eggs, and even hatch chicks. Beware of foxes, though—they might try to snatch your precious eggs!
- Cows and Llamas: These larger animals are not just for show. Milk cows for fresh dairy products and shear llamas for high-quality wool to use or sell.
- Wild Rabbits and Birds: Befriend wild rabbits and birds to receive useful gardening assistance. However, players must build trust to unlock these benefits.
- Foxes: These mischievous yet lovable animals can either be a nuisance or an advantage, depending on how you interact with them.
Interacting with Animals
Each animal comes with unique traits and requires daily care. Use treats to enhance their production—like making your cow produce chocolate milk or your chickens lay golden eggs.
New Traits and Aspirations – Customize Your Sims
Cottage Living introduces new traits that make rural gameplay more immersive. These traits and aspirations let you craft Sims that truly fit the countryside lifestyle.
- Animal Enthusiast: Sims with this trait are naturally skilled at interacting with animals. They’ll form close relationships with cows, llamas, and chickens more quickly.
- Lactose Intolerant: This trait adds challenge and realism as affected Sims must avoid dairy products to prevent discomfort.
Country Caretaker Aspiration
The new aspiration revolves around perfecting the countryside way of life. Sims will aim to befriend animals, grow oversized crops, and participate in local events like the Finchwick Fair along their journey to becoming the ultimate caretaker.
Gardening and Farming Updates – Oversized Crops and More
Gardening gets a big boost in Cottage Living. Grow towering pumpkins, massive watermelons, and more, and compete for prizes during fairs. The farming mechanics add a delightful layer of strategy and fun.
- Oversized Crops: Use special fertilizers and techniques to grow enormous crops. Perfect for recipes, competitions, or simply bragging rights.
- Simple Living Lot Challenge: This challenge is a game-changer for cooking enthusiasts. With this lot trait enabled, Sims can only prepare meals using ingredients found, grown, or purchased locally. Say goodbye to running the fridge on auto!
Foraging in The Bramblewood
Beyond crops, players can forage for wild mushrooms, berries, and herbs. These items are integral to unique recipes, errands, and creating connections with nature.
New Skills and Activities – From Cross-Stitching to Foraging
Cottage Living encourages creativity and exploration with its range of countryside-themed skills and activities.
Cross-Stitching
Sims can now take up cross-stitching as a new creative outlet. Much like the painting skill, cross-stitching allows players to craft beautiful patterns, decorate their homes, or gift intricate designs to others.
Foraging and Exploring
Take your Sims into the great outdoors to forage mushrooms and search for collectibles. Discover mysteries in the ruins and stumble upon Sophie the Snail in the picturesque Bramblewood.
CAS and Build/Buy Items – Cottage-Core Galore
No Sims expansion is complete without new customization options, and Cottage Living doesn’t disappoint. It delivers a bundle of Create-a-Sim (CAS) and Build/Buy items to amplify the rustic charm.
CAS Items
From breezy floral dresses to practical farmhand outfits, the new clothing options reflect the cottage-core aesthetic. Hairstyles are equally fitting, offering casual yet elegant looks perfect for pastoral life.
Build/Buy Items
Decorating your dream cottage has never been easier. Add farmhouse-style furniture, rustic kitchen appliances, and quaint accessories like tea sets and decorative clocks. Create cozy outdoor spaces with picnic tables and garden decorations.
Lot Challenges – Add Complexity to Your Gameplay
Lot challenges introduced in this expansion enrich gameplay by emphasizing resource management and environmental interaction.
- Simple Living: Focus on growing and sourcing ingredients for meals instead of relying on instant purchases from the fridge. This lot challenge rewards players who plan ahead and embrace farming.
- Wild Foxes: This challenge introduces foxes who roam your property. Tame them for rewards or find ways to secure your farm against their mischievous antics.
How to Make the Most of Cottage Living
- Select the Perfect Lot: Choose a lot in Henford-on-Bagley that fits your preferred playstyle. For example, a larger lot is ideal for animals, while a cozy one might suit gardening enthusiasts.
- Create a Cottage-Core Sim: Customize your Sims with the new traits, clothing, and goals that align with a rural lifestyle.
- Start Small: Focus on raising a few animals and growing crops. As you gain confidence, expand your farm.
- Participate in Fairs: Compete in the Finchwick Fair to show off your prized crops and animals. Building relationships with villagers can provide tips and encouragement.
- Explore: Take time to explore The Bramblewood, interact with wildlife, and complete errands for villagers.
FAQs – Common Questions About The Sims 4: Cottage Living
What is The Sims 4: Cottage Living about?
The Sims 4: Cottage Living is an expansion pack that focuses on rural life, including farming, caring for animals, growing oversized crops, and participating in countryside traditions.
Can I raise farm animals in Cottage Living?
Yes, you can raise cows, llamas, and chickens, and also interact with wild rabbits and birds. These animals require daily care and provide unique benefits, like eggs, milk, and wool.
What is the Simple Living Lot Challenge?
The Simple Living Lot Challenge requires players to cook using only ingredients they’ve sourced, grown, or purchased locally, adding a level of realism and strategy to gameplay.
Is Henford-on-Bagley a large world?
Henford-on-Bagley contains three distinct neighborhoods, each with unique features and lots. While not the largest world, it’s rich in interactive elements and scenic beauty.
Are the oversized crops just for looks?
No, oversized crops can be used in meals, sold for profit, or entered into competitions at the Finchwick Fair, where they might win prizes.
What kind of new skills does Cottage Living offer?
The expansion introduces cross-stitching, a creative skill that allows Sims to craft decorative items. It also emphasizes foraging and farming-related activities.
Can wild animals be pets?
While you can’t adopt wild animals like rabbits or birds as traditional pets, you can befriend them to receive unique benefits, such as gardening assistance.
What types of CAS items are included?
Cottage Living offers countryside-themed clothing, accessories, and hairstyles that cater to the pastoral aesthetic, perfect for creating characters that match the rural setting.
Can I live off the grid in Cottage Living?
Yes, the expansion works well with the existing Off-the-Grid Lot Challenge, allowing players to fully immerse themselves in a self-sufficient lifestyle.
Do I need other packs to enjoy Cottage Living?
No, Cottage Living is a standalone expansion, though its features can integrate seamlessly with other packs like Eco Lifestyle or Seasons for expanded gameplay.
Conclusion
The Sims 4: Cottage Living is a must-have expansion for anyone yearning for a charming rural escape. It blends engaging gameplay mechanics with stunning visuals and heartfelt interactions, making every moment in Henford-on-Bagley special. Whether you’re tending to your animals, growing prize-winning crops, or simply relaxing in the serene countryside, Cottage Living offers endless opportunities to create lasting memories with your Sims. So, pack your bags, and get ready to embrace the simple joys of farm life!
