The latest update to The Sims 4 isn’t just another quick fix or minor patch—it’s a pretty substantial free update that adds a bunch of new features. Unlike the typical auto-downloads, this update requires you to start up The Sims 4 itself for the SDX (Sims Delivery Express) update to appear. Once you launch the game, the SDX update will download, and you’ll need to restart the game to fully apply the changes.
While some players are scratching their heads over the SDX system, the content added is certainly worth the minor hassle. Here’s everything you need to know about the update’s new features—from hairstyles and clothing to build mode additions.
Free New Hairstyles and Outfits
One of the standout parts of this update is the addition of new hairstyles and outfits, but there’s a bit of controversy surrounding who gets what. Female Sims get a few exciting new hair options, including some cute ponytails with added “quiff” details (not to be confused with anything else!). There are also new hairstyles with baby hairs and texture for that extra realism. However, it seems male Sims didn’t get any fresh new cuts, with a few of the female styles simply being applied to the male meshes.
In terms of clothing, there are a few new pieces, including a trendy jacket-and-shirt combo and a graphic t-shirt featuring “The Sims” in English (which one player hilariously calls out as “a boycott-worthy design”). A scarf accessory, which can also double as a necklace, is another added bonus.
The update also brings some fresh new outfits for toddlers and kids, but don’t expect anything too groundbreaking. The update’s focus is primarily on improving adult Sims’ wardrobes and adding a few more choices for children.
Exciting Build Mode Additions
If you’re someone who loves to dive into Build Mode, the free update doesn’t disappoint either. A bunch of new build items have been added, and for once, EA has actually given us some of the good stuff for free.
The big star here is a new kitchen counter set, which is being hailed as the best kitchen option in the entire game. These counters come with both modern and sleek designs, making them a must-have for any contemporary kitchen in your Sims’ homes. You’ll also find matching upper cabinets that complete the look. Gone are the days when you needed to buy an expansion or kit just for a solid kitchen upgrade.
There’s also a fresh batch of windows, including some modern, sleek options that really elevate the look of any home. One player even cheekily calls them “the nicest modern windows we’ve gotten,” although, as is often the case with EA, some bugs have appeared with the new windows—glitches like weird lines across the panes.
Doors are getting some love too, with a brand new medium-height door added. However, some players are left asking why EA didn’t include a shorter version of these doors, as the medium height doesn’t seem to fit the current trend of shorter wall heights in many builds.
Other Notable Changes: Pillars, Wallpapers, and More
Along with the windows and kitchen counters, there are a few more details worth mentioning. New base game pillars have been introduced, perfect for anyone trying to make modern, industrial-style builds. These pillars come with a new matching spandrel, giving players even more ways to create striking, symmetrical designs.
In terms of decorative updates, there are new wallpapers and flooring to experiment with. For example, you can now use new hexagonal tiles and modern wallpaper with an intriguing circular design. There’s even a fresh new light that works across all wall heights, adding some long-awaited flexibility for lighting choices in your builds.
One more fun addition is a new fireplace that matches the kitchen counter set—perfect for creating a cohesive interior design. Although the update doesn’t bring too much new furniture or play equipment for kids, it does give some small tweaks, including a new jungle gym with a duck design instead of the previous skull-themed one.
Is It Really Free?
What’s surprising about this update is that EA hasn’t locked the majority of these goodies behind a paid pack or kit. While The Sims 4 has been known for its microtransactions and paid DLC, the recent free update actually includes some solid, high-quality additions that make players feel like they’re getting more value from the base game. These updates also show that EA is continuing to fine-tune and improve the base game, which is something fans have been asking for a while.
There’s still some room for improvement, though. As one player points out, “It’s a bit strange that EA would add cool items like new kitchen counters and windows for free, but leave kids with only the same old play equipment and a few new outfits.” Many players continue to feel that children’s content is often overlooked in The Sims 4, despite the fact that older entries in the series had far more play equipment and activities for kids.
If you’re curious about the specific details of what’s included in this update, the Sims Community website has screenshots and further breakdowns of the content.
For a detailed look at everything this update brings, head over to the Sims Community for more updates.
These free updates, along with some of the fixes EA has made to The Sims 4 gameplay, show that the game still has plenty of life left. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a new player, this update has a little something for everyone.
