EA has released a brand new free patch update for The Sims 4 and it’s more than just routine maintenance. The update, now live for PC and Mac (with console support delayed), sets the stage for an upcoming in-game event and brings noticeable performance upgrades to the base game. With smoother gameplay, quicker loading times and a sneak peek at Nature’s Calling, this is a must-know update for any Sims fan.
The Sims 4 Nature’s Calling event details revealed
Following a recent laundry list post, many players predicted a patch would arrive within days. EA didn’t disappoint. But beyond bug fixes and performance boosts, the real highlight is the announcement of Nature’s Calling, a new limited-time event starting on June 24 at 9 a.m. PT and running through August 5.
To participate, just load into live mode once the event begins. Your Sim will hear “whispers in the wind” to trigger the event. It plays out across four weeks of content, each offering two quests. Players who join late get an extra two weeks to catch up.
As with previous Sims 4 events, you’ll earn event points for completing tasks, which can then be exchanged for exclusive new items. Here’s a breakdown of rewards by week:
- Week 1: Reclaimed woodworking table, Odinata glasses, reclaimed wood wall, Touchgrass Weekly issue #1
- Week 2: Reclaimed wood dining chair, flowing fonds swimwear, foraged feast food recipe, Touchgrass Weekly issue #2
- Week 3: Nature soundscapes radio station, reclaimed wood dining table, rings of growth tattoo, Touchgrass Weekly issue #3
- Week 4: The Wooden Throne, Outouse Cove stones, decorative rocks, trail sandals, Touchgrass Weekly issue #4
Each magazine issue is part of a collectible nature series, perfect for Sims who want a greener lifestyle vibe.
Optional expansion pack goals for extra rewards
If you own expansion packs like Cats and Dogs, Snowy Escape, Horse Ranch or Lovestruck, you’ll unlock optional goals during the event. These offer bonus points and consumable items like Simoleons and potions. Be sure to complete them before the main quest they’re linked to or they’ll disappear permanently.
EA included a full FAQ in their official blog post with additional details about how the system works, how event points are calculated and what happens if you join late.
Patch notes bring real performance gains and bug fixes
The patch also includes several highly-requested quality-of-life improvements, especially for players struggling with game performance. EA claims this update improves loading times by up to 10 percent, increases frame rates by as much as 22 FPS in laptop mode and reduces memory usage by 18 MB.
Some additional changes include:
- Improved game processing and threaded rendering
- Smoother visuals and fewer graphical bugs
- Streamlined UI for goals and events
- On-screen help guide available via Emily’s guidance panel
These optimizations aren’t just fluff. Players on Reddit and Twitter are already reporting improved gameplay, particularly on older PCs and budget laptops.
Base game and kit fixes you should know about
The update also fixes various bugs, including:
- Kleptomaniac Sims can no longer steal high-value items unless their mischief skill is high enough
- A routing error for fishing spots in Sulani (from Island Living) has finally been resolved
- The incorrect version of the Orphe Noah song has been replaced with the final one
Fixes were also rolled out for the Sleek Bathroom and Sweet Allure kits, such as:
- The Toilet backplate now hides correctly when placed against a wall
- Fingernails no longer clip into fingers with layered sweaters
- Visual glitches on legs and armpits fixed when using specific clothing
- Tights color stays consistent across different skin tones
Unfortunately, the patch does not appear to address the save file corruption that many players feared might be game-breaking. Though this was rumored to be included based on the last laundry list, no such fix appears in the current notes. That omission has raised some eyebrows among longtime players.
Console players left waiting
While the PC and Mac version of the update is available now, EA confirmed that the PlayStation and Xbox release was delayed during final testing. Console Simmers will need to wait a bit longer for access. On the bright side, they won’t need to worry about mods breaking while they wait.
Back up your mods now
If you use mods in your game, back up your Mods, Saves and Tray folders before updating. EA and modding communities strongly recommend removing all mods, updating the game, then gradually re-adding updated versions. Just one outdated script mod can crash your game or cause visual bugs, which players often mistake as problems with the patch itself.
FAQ about the Sims 4 Nature’s Calling event and patch
What is the Nature’s Calling event in The Sims 4?
A free limited-time event running from June 24 to August 5 with weekly quests and collectible rewards.
Do I need expansions to complete the event?
No, but owning some expansions unlocks bonus goals and extra rewards.
When is the patch coming to consoles?
No specific date yet. EA says it’s delayed due to last-minute testing issues.
Should I remove mods before updating The Sims 4?
Yes. Always remove mods before updating, then add back compatible versions after.
This patch and event combo delivers real improvements and brings some excitement back to The Sims 4 after months of minimal updates. Whether you’re just here for performance gains or excited about new fairy-core furniture, this one’s worth your attention.
