Sims 3 - Tips for Crashing, Lag and Other Misc Tips

[MrsFlynn]

Launcher Crashes / Launcher has stopped Working Launcher / Not Responding

Launcher crashes (Sims 3 or Sims3Launcher has stopped Working)
http://sims3.crinrict.com/en/2014/02/launcher-crashes.html

If the launcher crashes, quits working or isn't responding, check what custom content/mods that are installed. As they may have not installed properly or have become corrupt. If that doesn't help, repair game, and try a factory reset.

If you need help with any of these, have a look at the links below.

1. Check on the 3rd Party Custom Content
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php/topic,20732.msg401824.html#msg401824

2. Check the Mods
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php/topic,20732.msg401825.html#msg401825

3. Repair Game
In Origin > Games Library, right-click on Sims 3 and select Repair.

4. Try creating a new Sims 3 folder, also known as a Sims 3 Factory Reset.

Sims 3 Factory Reset (What & Howto)
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=20732.msg401814#msg401814

If the launcher quits responding, and you've tried all the above, it may be best to do a full uninstall/reinstall of the game. - As this will help reset the launcher and fix the corrupted files.

5. Uninstall/Reinstall the game

Uninstall the game via Origin or the Control Panel

- Origin -- Go to Games Library and right-click on Sims 3, select Uninstall. This will uninstall all of Sims 3 and it's packs.
- Control Panel -- Control Panel > Uninstall a Program > Find Sims 3 and it's packs and uninstall each of them.

Install Sims 3 and expansions via Origin

1. Log into your Origin Account with the email and password you used to purchased the game with.
2. Click on the Game Library tab, right-click on the Sims 3 and select Download. This will download the base game and any expansions, and stuff packs that have been purchased. The download process includes any bonus items.

** There should be no need for the game code, as Origin already has that information. However, if you have this problem, please read the link below for more information.

This Code Has Already been Used
https://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=29314.msg431138#msg431138

It is recommended to run Ccleaner and it's registry cleaner Or a similar registry cleaner, after or before installing the game again. To help clean up files that get left behind in the registry after an uninstall.

Ccleaner, It's free
- http://www.piriform.com/ccleaner/download  -- PC
- https://www.piriform.com/ccleaner/download?mac -- Mac

How to use CCleaner to fix PC issues
http://www.wikihow.com/Use-CCleaner

[MrsFlynn]

User Interface (UI) is Missing

Regardless if traveling to/from different worlds or to/from University, you may come to find your game's user interface missing. There isn't an official fix for it. But there is a work-around and a few tips that may help with the problem.


Possible work-arounds:

1. Evict the family and placing them back into their home.
2. Switch to another household then back to yours may solve the issue.
3. If you find yourself with this bug you can then go back to a previous save.

Tip #1: Always make a backup of current game before traveling, regardless if it's to university or China, France or Egypt.

Tip#2: Clear out the family individual and family's inventories of extra items. - Always good to do this before traveling.


Troubleshooting Tips:

Missing UI
http://sims3.crinrict.com/en/2011/04/bug-missing-ui.html

Missing Sims and empty UI when arriving in vacation town
http://sims3.crinrict.com/en/2011/03/bug-missing-sims-and-empty-ui-when-arriving-in-vacation-town.html

Game Help:UI and Sim Issues
http://simswiki.info/wiki.php?title=Game_Help:UI_and_Sim_Issues

[MrsFlynn]

Restart the Computer

Playing for long periods of time (2+ hours or more), without saving will cause lag and freezing and may cause save/memory errors. Regardless of what type of computer you have.

Save often, Using Save As. and giving it a new or similar name. Get out of the game and restart the system every couple of hours will help free up memory trapped by the game. It will also help you to be sure not to loose game progress.

Using Save As every now and again and saving as nameofgame-1, nameofgame-2, etc. may help to lessen the chances of getting save/memory errors.

[MrsFlynn]

Delete and/or Backup Older Saved Games

Every so often, back up some of your older save-games. Back them up to an external drive, cd, memory key for if you want to use them later or need a backup to go back to.

Having a lot of older saved-games in your Saves folder is known to cause issues with the game.

[MrsFlynn]

Check on the 3rd Party Custom Content

If you've got custom content, (items not made by EA aka 3rd party content) or even items from the Sims3Store or the Exchange. Try starting the game without it, by opening the launcher, click the Installed Content Tab. Check mark Run Game Without Custom Content. Then click the Play button.

Going through your custom content and mods from time to time is a good idea to make sure none of it's  corrupted or conflicting with something else. As corrupted custom content will mess up your game for whatever reason and may make it, glitchy, have graphical glitches or become unplayable.

For example, if your Sim isn't actively wearing anything that may be bad CC, go through your launcher with a fine toothcomb (if you're using it). You may have downloaded a lot or a Sim that had some bad CC attached to it. If you see something that you don't recognize downloading, delete it from the launcher.

Sims 3 - How-To: Fix Problems with Mods/CC
https://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=31759.msg506010#msg506010

[HOW TO] Find and remove bad custom content (CC)
http://answers.ea.com/t5/The-Sims-3/HOW-TO-Find-and-remove-bad-custom-content-CC/td-p/2759940

Or

Finding Problem CC
http://simswiki.info/wiki.php?title=Game_Help:TS3_Finding_Problem_Custom_Content

The links above should help track down any cc that may be causing the issue. Note that some bad CC can't be found by checking the launcher, so check all of your downloaded sims using this tutorial linked below:
http://sims3.crinrict.com/en/2011/01/custard-downloads-that-are-attached-to-sims-directly.html


HowTo: Install Sims 3 Custom Content without the Launcher
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php/topic,26167.msg437430.html#msg437430

Game Help:TS3 Custom Content
http://simswiki.info/wiki.php?title=Game_Help:TS3_Custom_Content

This is a list of known bad CC clothing -
http://sims3.crinrict.com/badcc/en/BadCC_Clothing.html

I can't see my custom content items in-game for The Sims 3
https://help.ea.com/en-au/help/the-sims/the-sims-3/i-can-t-see-my-custom-content-items-in-game-for-the-sims-3/

Check the Mods - As they may help troubled games
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=20732.msg401825#msg401825

[MrsFlynn]

Check the Mods - As they may help troubled games

If you have mods in your game. Try running the game without the mods. By moving the mods folder to your desktop or some where safe.

-- From time to time, there is some game lag when using mods due to various reasons.

If the lag/crashing is still there. Add each mod back in until you find which mod may be causing the lag. If you find the lag being caused by a mod. Leave that mod out.

When going through your mods, leave out the ones you're not sure what they are or aren't familiar with. And maybe the ones that start with numbers in their file name.

Sims 3 - How-To: Fix Problems with Mods/CC
https://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=31759.msg506010#msg506010


** Some recommended Mods to help prevent crashing and lag are:

Register - Can be used to reduce wild animal populations, which helps with lag. Also helps populate and manage shops/stalls.

Traffic - Cleans up taxis, limos, etc. Can also be used to turn on/off the ice cream and food trucks.

Overwatch - Performs game cleanup once every 24 sim hours.

Error Trap - Grabs errors, logs them and resets the sim rather than just letting the error sit there.

MasterController - Can help reset town, and has various interactions to help alter town population.

Debug Enabler - Helps "reset" bugged/glitched/invisible Sims

Saver - Fixes issues with the save system, prompts you to save every 30 mins (Save as, not just a normal save)

Traveler - Helps fix issues with going to the future, vacation, University, etc.

Go Here - Helps fix routing issues.

Mover - Less useful than the others. Mostly just helps prevent issues moving house or neighborhood.


** In case you're new to working with mods, please see the topic below on creating a mods folder and installing them.

Topic: Creating a Mods Folder/Installing Mods Step by Step Guide
http://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/forum/index.php/topic,9187.0.html

HowTo: Install Sims 3 Custom Content without the Launcher
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=26167.msg437430#msg437430


If you're having a hard time getting your mods to work, try this:

Installing Sims 3 Package Files/Setup and Files
http://modthesims.info/wiki.php?title=Game_Help:Installing_Sims_3_Package_Files/Setup_and_Files

There is a ready-made "FrameworkSetup.zip and instructions.  It provided me with the creation of the Mod folder containing the Resource.cfg, Override and Packages folders.  Then I copied my mods into the packages and voila!


Finding Problem CC
http://simswiki.info/wiki.php?title=Game_Help:TS3_Finding_Problem_Custom_Content

[MrsFlynn]

Thumbnails Folder

It's safe to delete the files in this folder, but not the folder itself. The files will regenerate.

[MrsFlynn]

WorldCaches Folder

 ** Mac users don't delete these files!! **

Files in this folder are okay to delete. They will get recreated when you visit the worlds that use them.

--> C:\Users\<Username>\Documents\Electronic Arts\The Sims 3\WorldCaches

WorldCaches folder is created only if you have custom worlds (Barnacle Bay, Riverview, etc.), and it's only created on some computers. Yes, feel free to remove the files inside WorldCaches - deleting them won't harm your game.

Not everyone will have this folder, so if you don't have it, don't worry about it.  It just means that your computer doesn't use these caches.

[MrsFlynn]

How To: Delete and clear the FeaturedItems folder

It's safe and fairly easy to delete the contents of the Featured Items folder. they will be recreated if you don't set it to Read-Only. To keep the thumbnails from coming back. Try these steps.

01.) Go into the FeaturedItems folder, and highlight all the files and delete them.
02.) Go back to the Sims3 Folder and select the FeaturedItems folder.
03.) Right click and select properties.
04.) Select the Security tab.
05.) Click the Edit button.
06.) Under the Permissions for Authenticated Users, find the word Write, and checkmark Deny.
-- This will prevent anything from being written to this folder.
06.) Click Apply or Ok.

07.) Select General tab, under Attributes, select Read-Only and click Apply or Ok.

--- If you would like to see reference photos, please see the link below.

Preventing of Ingame-Store-Pictures
http://sims3.crinrict.com/en/2011/12/tutorial-turning-off-ingame-store-and-preventing-loading-of-pictures.html

[MrsFlynn]

Stuck Inventory Items

It's recommended to evict the family out, and then move them back in. How-To Evict Household

Read more about it in the link below.

Stuck Inventory Items
http://sims3.crinrict.com/en/2011/04/bug-stuck-inventory-items.html

If you have rewards, like the Motive Mobile, look them up in the BuyDebug menu. You can get to this menu by, Press Shift-Ctrl-C keys together to bring up cheat console and typing in BuyDebug on.

[MrsFlynn]

Relieving Freezing and Lag

Here are some tips to relieve some lag and freezing. Please note it's normal for the game and it's camera to have some stuttering when zooming in/out and scrolling around, even with having better graphics cards due to the way the game has been optimized.

QuickLinks
In-Game/Origin Tips
Tech Related Tips
Tips for General Crashing Issues


In-Game/Origin Tips

These are some in-game and in Origin troubleshooting tips to try:

1. Repair Game - In Origin > Games Library, right-click on the Sims 3 photo and select Repair.

2. Deactivate Origin in Game -- Open Origin, Select Origin > Application Settings > Origin In Game and deselect or turn Off to disable Origin In Game.

[Origin in-game is a feature that allows you to see friends online in-game as well as other game stats. However, It has been known to cause problems having this feature turned on.]

3.  Try playing the game in "Offline" mode -- In the Origin Client, go to the Origin Menu and select Go Offline. -Or- Go to the Options Menu in-game. (lower left hand corner of the main menu) and select Options and go to the Online tab and uncheck Keep Me Logged In.

4. Start the game in Windowed mode -- In the Origin Client, go to the Games Library tab, and right click on the Sims 4 Cover and select Game Properties - In the Command Line Arguments, add the following text: -w and click Okay. If this doesn't work, try: -w und

 * Or try Borderless Gaming. It allows the game to play in Fullscreen Windowed Mode.

https://github.com/Codeusa/Borderless-Gaming/releases
- BorderlessGaming9.5.6_admin_setup.exe

5.  Empty Sims personal and family inventories. Often too many items in the inventories can cause issues. - Also, playing on large lots (40x40 and above) can cause lag, having a large family and house with a lot of furniture/decor and landscaping will cause lag after awhile.

6. Reset Town, Sims or Evicting Households to help reset things sometimes helps.

Reset Town, Individual Sims and/or Evict Household
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=20732.msg401812#msg401812

7. Check your game options. Sometimes experimenting with the in-game graphics, settings and other options help.

Sims 3 Options Overview
https://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=27533.msg455148#msg455148

Lower In-game Graphics
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php/topic,20732.msg401802.html#msg401802

Turn Off Memories/In-game Store
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php/topic,20732.msg401805.html#msg401805

Turn Off Interactive Loading Screens
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php/topic,20732.msg401807.html#msg401807

8. Some towns/worlds can cause lag, depending on how large they are. Save the family/house and try a new game as a test to see if placing them to a different town might help.

How To: Save a Household
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php/topic,19060.0.html

Create a New Game
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php/topic,20732.msg401813.html#msg401813

9. Try a custom content world. Even if it's a custom world to fix the "official" ones. This may help with routing issues that cause lag and freezing.

Back to top


Tech Related Tips

1. Make sure drivers are up to date

Troubleshooting graphics on PC
https://help.ea.com/en-us/help/pc/pc-graphics-troubleshooting

If the above doesn't help, try uninstalling your graphics driver and reinstall it. -- You may need to search on the manufacturer of your video card (Nvidia or AMD) to help find your graphics drivers.
 
If you have a dual graphics card system, make sure the game runs on the card and not the chip.
https://crinrict.com/blog/2019/05/setting-up-a-gaming-profile-for-your-graphics-card.html

How do I uninstall my NVIDIA display drivers?
https://www.wikihow.com/Uninstall-Nvidia-Drivers

Uninstalling AMD drivers
https://support.amd.com/en-us/kb-articles/Pages/AMD-Clean-Uninstall-Utility.aspx

2. Check Mods and Custom Content:  Move the Mods folder to the desktop for testing purposes and try the game again. - We suggest this due to outdated/broken mods/cc being the #1 issue when it comes to games not working correctly. If you need help with these, have a look at the links below.

Sims 3 - How-To: Fix Problems with Mods/CC
https://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=31759.msg506010#msg506010

3. Check recent downloads - If the lag/freezing has just started or has been going on for a bit, check over what you've recently downloaded.

4. Move old game saves, screenshots, videos, and downloads to a folder outside of the Sims 3 folder. - These can be moved to the desktop or a USB flash drive for safe keeping.

Moving some of these files may help lag/freezing in the game.
- Moving the screenshots and video folders will not mess up the game. The folders will be regenerated. This will help lessen the load on the game due to the large size of the screenshots and/or videos.

5. Try resetting the Sims 3 folder, aka Sims 3 Factory Reset (HowTo)
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php/topic,20732.msg401814.html#msg401814

6. Delete Game Cache Files (What & Howto)
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php/topic,20732.msg401809.html#msg401809

7. It's strongly recommended to play the game on a computer that meets or exceeds the recommended specs. If your computer doesn't meet at least recommended specs, you may have problems running this game well. Meaning you will run into crashes, lag, freezing and other general headaches. - Integrated video cards lack the dedicated video memory to give allow for good gaming performance.

If none of the above tips help, please post about your issue at EA's AHQ's Sims 3 Tech Help Board:
https://answers.ea.com/t5/Technical-Issues-PC/bd-p/the-sims-3

----------
Reference Links:

Sims 3 Lags & Freezes
http://sims3.crinrict.com/en/2011/04/bug-lags-intermittent-freezes.html

Bizarre cause of lag/freeze issue - 1st post updated 8/26/13
http://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/536956

[MrsFlynn]

Sims 3 Has Stopped Working

1. Update your drivers / Troubleshoot graphics
https://help.ea.com/en-us/help/pc/pc-graphics-troubleshooting/

2. Delete the Cache Files (HowTo)
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php/topic,20732.msg401809.html#msg401809

3. Try resetting the Sims 3 folder, aka Sims 3 Factory Reset (What & Howto)
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php/topic,20732.msg401814.html#msg401814

4. Check Mods and Custom Content:  Move the Mods folder to the desktop for testing purposes and try the game again. - We suggest this due to outdated/broken mods/cc being the #1 issue when it comes to games not working correctly. If you need help with these, have a look at the links below.

Sims 3 - How-To: Fix Problems with Mods/CC
https://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=31759.msg506010#msg506010

5. It has been reported that screen capture/recorders and instant messengers/video chat programs may cause issues with Sims 4 and may need to be turned off or uninstalled if issues are severe.

6. Run Ccleaner or another registry cleaner.  -- This helps clean up temporary files, internet cache files and other files that are left behind that are no longer being used. * While this won't help stop the crashing, it's a good idea to clean up the registry from time to time. As it helps the computer run smoother overall.

Run Ccleaner and it's registry cleaner:  (Standard Edition is Free)
https://www.piriform.com/ccleaner/download  -- PC
https://www.piriform.com/ccleaner/download?mac -- Mac

How to use CCleaner to fix PC issues
http://help.ea.com/en/article/how-to-use-ccleaner-to-fix-pc-issues/
-
http://www.wikihow.com/Use-CCleaner

   ✽✽  If the computer doesn't recognize that Sims 3 is installed, the game needs to be reinstalled, as something in the registry has gotten corrupted.

Information on a manual removal is here at the official EA site
http://help.ea.com/en/article/manually-uninstalling-the-sims-3/


The tip below will only work for those who have the disc or Steam version.

7. *If you've got the disc version of Sims 3 and expansions* (Does not work with Origin's digital download) Try running the game by by-passing the launcher, and use the TS3.exe file to run the game.

Go to ---> C:\Program Files (x86)\TheSims3\Game\Bin\TS3W.exe - and click on the file TS3W.exe to launch the game.

8. Add Sims 3 and Expansions to the Data Execution Prevention (DEP)
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=20732.msg447430#msg447430
Or
http://simswiki.info/wiki.php?title=Game_Help:Data_Execution_Prevention/TS3W

Restart the computer. Specially if you've just come from playing hours of another game. Or doing something that was as graphic intense for the computer. - This helps refresh It's memory, and gives it a fresh start.

----------
Reference Links:
Game Crashes (Sims 3 has stopped working)
http://sims3.crinrict.com/en/2011/01/error-game-crashes-ctd.html

Sims 3 Game Problems
http://simswiki.info/wiki.php?title=Game_Help:Sims_3_Game_Problem

Sims 3 Crashing Checklist
http://simswiki.info/wiki.php?title=Game_Help:Sims_3_Crashing_Checklist

Windows 10 Help Thread
https://answers.ea.com/t5/Technical-Issues-PC/READ-FIRST-POST-HERE-Windows-10-Help-Thread/td-p/4703142

[MrsFlynn]

Tips for Launcher Script Errors / Clear IE's or Edge's Browser Cache

These are fairly common. You may get several different script errors. Some are left over from when EA was doing promotional things in the launcher.

The few that were/are left over were once fixed with a patch, but have since been broken. These errors can be safely ignored. The game can still be played and the launcher can still be used as normal and won't cause harm.

If you aren't able to exit out of the launcher due to the error, use Task Manager to close out.

Open Task manager (Ctrl-Shift-Esc) search for a file called Sims3Launcher (32 bit) Right click on it and select End Task.

Other errors may popup from time to time. Something to try is to clear IE's or Edge browser cache. Steps for that are below.

Clear Internet Explorer Cache and Reset IE

The launcher still uses parts of Internet Explorer to start up. Clearing out IE's cache and cookies may help it work better.

To Clear IE's Cache:

1. Open Internet Explorer.
2. Go to the Tools menu. (Gear icon) on the right of the screen. Click it and choose Internet Options.
3. On the General tab under Browsing history click Delete.
4. Un-check the Preserve Favorites website data box.
5. Check the Temporary Internet files, Cookies and History boxes.
6. Click Delete and Okay.

----------
To Reset IE back to factory default.

1. Open IE and go to Tools --> Internet Options --> Advanced --> Reset.
2. Check the box that says Delete Personal Settings.
3. Restart your computer

** Please note Internet Explorer is different from Microsoft Edge.  We are not talking about Microsoft Edge or whatever browser you may be using to browse the internet with.  We're talking specifically about Internet Explorer, it has ties into Sims 3's launcher and may need it's cache cleared or fully reset to help the launcher work again.

However, it has been shared that clearing cache in Edge helps get the launcher to work again.

wikiHow to Clear Microsoft Edge Browser's Cache
http://www.wikihow.com/Clear-Your-Browser%27s-Cache#Microsoft_Edge_sub


If you're running the Origin version and patch 1.69, the tip below won't work due to the way Origin works and the way they've patched the game.

If you are running on patch 1.67 it is recommended to bypass the launcher, when you're not installing custom content or other game files like Sims, Lots, etc that you've created.

Go to ---> C:\Program Files (x86)\TheSims3\Game\Bin\TS3W.exe - and click on the file TS3W.exe to launch the game.

It does sometimes help to run the Superpatcher, especially if you've recently installed or reinstalled Sims 3. [Error: Expected Identifier, String or Number]

Super Patch (1.67) [The SuperPatcher is meant for 1.67 and below installs only.]
http://answers.ea.com/t5/The-Sims-3/FAQ-Current-Patch-1-67-Manual-links-and-more/td-p/67858

*!*!* If you've installed Sims 3 via Steam. You may need to search on how to get it patched up, as Steam has it's own patching system and may not be able to use the super patch.

----------
Reference Link:

Script Error when opening launcher
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php/topic,11569.0.html

Script Errors on the Launcher
http://answers.ea.com/t5/The-Sims-3/Info-Script-Errors-on-the-Launcher/td-p/2216747

Sims 3 Launcher Running in Tray While Playing
https://answers.ea.com/t5/The-Sims-3/Sims-3-launcher-running-in-tray-while-playing/td-p/6993691

[MrsFlynn]

Tips for General Crashing Issues

We're sorry for this exhaustive tips list. But something from this list is sure to help fix the issue.

Updated: May 2022

Quick Links:
In-Game/Origin Tips
Tech Related Tips
Tips to Relieve Lag and Freezing
Tips for Sims 3 Has Stopped Working


In-Game/Origin Tips

1. Repair Game - In Origin > Games Library, right-click on the Sims 3 photo and select Repair.

2. Deactivate Origin in Game -- Open Origin, Select Origin > Application Settings > Origin In Game and deselect or turn Off to disable Origin In Game.

   Origin in-game is a feature that allows you to see friends online in-game as well as other game stats. However, It has been known to cause problems having this feature turned on.

3. Try playing the game in "Offline" mode:
-- In the Origin Client, go to the Origin Menu and select Go Offline.

4. Start the game in Windowed mode:
-- In the Origin Client, go to the Game Library tab, and right click on the Sims 3 and select Game Properties - In the Command Line Arguments, add the following text: -w and click Okay. If this doesn't work, try: -w und

 * Or try Borderless Gaming. It allows the game to play in Fullscreen Windowed Mode.

https://github.com/Codeusa/Borderless-Gaming/releases
- BorderlessGaming9.5.6_admin_setup.exe

5. Try running Origin As Administrator - Right-click on the Origin icon on the desktop and select Run as Administrator.

6. Try experimenting with in-game graphics, resolution and settings:
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=20732.msg401802#msg401802

7. Sims 3 Stopped working -- If you have more than one Origin account. Make sure your logged into the account that you purchased or registered Sims 3 with. 

8. Log out of Origin. -- *If exiting Origin isn't working, open Task manager (Ctrl-Shift-Esc) search for a file called TS3W.exe. Click on it and select end process.

9. Make sure that Origin does not automatically open when starting Windows.
In Origin - Application Settings - Start-up options - turn this off. It's on by default and can cause issues, if you have multiple Windows user accounts.

Origin Startup Options
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=21898.msg483788#msg483788

Back to top


Tech Related Tips

1. Make sure drivers are up to date

Troubleshooting graphics on PC
https://help.ea.com/en-us/help/pc/pc-graphics-troubleshooting

If the above doesn't help, try uninstalling your graphics driver and reinstall it. -- You may need to search on the manufacturer of your video card (Nvidia or AMD) to help find your graphics drivers.

How do I uninstall my NVIDIA display drivers?
https://www.wikihow.com/Uninstall-Nvidia-Drivers

Uninstalling AMD drivers
https://support.amd.com/en-us/kb-articles/Pages/AMD-Clean-Uninstall-Utility.aspx

If you have a dual graphics card system, make sure the game runs on the card and not the chip.
https://crinrict.com/blog/2019/05/setting-up-a-gaming-profile-for-your-graphics-card.html

How-To: Get Sims 3 to Recognize a New Graphics Card
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=26753.msg446248#msg446248

2. Check Mods and Custom Content:  Move the Mods folder to the desktop for testing purposes and try the game again. - We suggest this due to outdated/broken mods/cc being the #1 issue when it comes to games not working correctly. If you need help with these, have a look at the links below.

Sims 3 - How-To: Fix Problems with Mods/CC
https://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=31759.msg506010#msg506010

3. Delete both game cache and Origin cache files:

-- Delete Game Cache
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php/topic,20732.msg401809.html#msg401809

-- Delete Origin Cache
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=29289.msg401663#msg401663

4. Try Resetting Your Sims 3 User Folder. Aka Sims 3 Factory Reset. -- HowTo:
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=20732.msg401814#msg401814

5. A hard drive that is low on space may cause the game crash/not load. It's best to move extra files such as game videos, game saves, screenshots to an external drive or usb drive if you're running low on hard drive space.

6. It has been reported that screen capture/recorders and instant messengers/video chat programs may cause issues with Sims 3 and may need to be turned off or uninstalled if issues are severe.

7. The crashing could be a potential power supply or overheating issue. Try cleaning out your computer, if that doesn't help. You may need to either have a friend help clean it out or take it to a repair shop to get it cleaned out. You may also want to have them test the power supply to rule out issues with that.

8. If you've got a new PC you may need to install Direct X9 and check that your CPU isn't what's causing it to crash.

Some players with new computers are having a hard time getting Sims 3 to run on their computers. It's my understanding it may be due to Sims 3 needing DirectX9 and Windows 10 not having it.

So you may want to try reinstalling DirectX 9. Read more in the post linked below.

Sims 3 Game Won't Launch - Windows 10
https://answers.ea.com/t5/Technical-Issues-PC/SIMS-3-GAME-WON-T-LAUNCH-WINDOWS-10/m-p/10711778#M247861

If that doesn't help, you may need to look into seeing if it's CPU related, as some newer CPUs are having a problem with older games.

The Alder Lake processors have issues running some games by incorrectly triggering the DRM.  While a number of games have been fixed, it's possible Sims 3 is not one of those games.  A possible workaround (if your motherboard supports it) is to go into the system BIOS and enable Legacy Game Mode.  You will need to Google whether your board supports this mode and what the instructions are for your particular board as every BIOS is different.

The thread linked below mentions some troubleshooting tips and that EA is looking into the issue. This may be an incompatibility between the computer's processor and Sims 3. If this is the case, you'll need to wait for a fix from any of the companies involved.

Sims 3 won't open: Alder Lake (Intel 12th-gen) CPU
https://answers.ea.com/t5/Technical-Issues-PC/Sims-3-won-t-open-Alder-Lake-Intel-12th-gen-CPU/td-p/11057820

9. Check that you do not have any programs running that my cause conflict with Origin.
https://help.ea.com/en-us/help/origin/origin/programs-that-may-cause-conflicts-with-origin/

10. Ensure that Antivirus or security software is not blocking the launch of the game. You may want to white list Origin and/or Sims 3. With there being several different antivirus programs you may need to search on how to white list Sims 3 in your specific antivirus program.

11. Try running a Clean Boot as this will help with stopping any other programs from interfering.
http://help.ea.com/en/article/how-to-clean-boot-your-pc/

12. Restart computer if you haven't in awhile. This helps to refresh the computer's memory.

13. Run Ccleaner or another registry cleaner.  -- This helps clean up temporary files, internet cache files and other files that are left behind that are no longer being used. * While this won't help stop the crashing, it's a good idea to clean up the registry from time to time. As it helps the computer run smoother overall.

Run Ccleaner and it's registry cleaner:  (Standard Edition is Free)
https://www.piriform.com/ccleaner/download  -- PC
https://www.piriform.com/ccleaner/download?mac -- Mac

How to use CCleaner to fix PC issues
http://help.ea.com/en/article/how-to-use-ccleaner-to-fix-pc-issues/
-
http://www.wikihow.com/Use-CCleaner

14. Try turning off the Game DVR and Game Bar, as it's known to be causing issues.

Turn off or disable Game bar in Windows 10
https://www.howtogeek.com/273180/how-to-disable-windows-10s-game-dvr-and-game-bar/

15. Check to make sure your computer meets the minimum, or better yet recommended requirements for both Origin and the game. As trying to run Origin and/or the game on an older/lower end computer will cause both not to work at anytime.

16. It's strongly recommended to play the game on a computer that meets or exceeds the recommended specs. If your computer doesn't meet these the recommended specs, you may have problems running this game well. Meaning you will run into crashes, lag, freezing and other general headaches. - Integrated video cards lack the dedicated video memory to allow for good gaming performance.

If none of the above tips help, please post about your issue at EA's AHQ's Sims 3 Tech Help Board:
https://answers.ea.com/t5/Technical-Issues-PC/bd-p/the-sims-3

Sign in with your EA account, click the New Topic button, up near the top of the board, to make a new post.


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Reference Links:

SimsWiki: Sims 3 Crashing Checklist
http://simswiki.info/wiki.php?title=Game_Help:Sims_3_Crashing_Checklist

Game won't load - stuck on black screen
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=20732.msg427342#msg427342

Sims 3 Has Stopped Working
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=20732.msg425117#msg425117

[MrsFlynn]

How To: Sims 3 - Install and/or Uninstall/Reinstall

Quick Links

Install and/or Uninstall Sims 3, Expansions and Stuff packs

Redeem your serial key or product code in Origin

Bought Used Copy of Game

Install Sims 3 and expansions via Origin

Redeem Bonus Content

Install Sims 3 via Disc

How-To: Backup and Restore The Sims 3 From Origin

How to Play/Start the game?

How to Play/Start the game without internet?

The Expansions Aren't Loading?!

Sims 3 Expansion Packs Disappeared From Launcher

My Origin Games Are Missing

HowTo: Install Sims 3 Custom Content without the Launcher

How To: Download Store Content

How-To: Backup and Restore Store Content

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Please note: If you have problems with your game code such as it comes up invalid, missing or aren't able to use it for whatever reason, you need to contact EA's Customer Service / Use EA Help (How-To)  As we cannot help with game code and/or Origin Account problems. EA's CS can help better with that. As long as you can verify your account and show proof of purchase. [Only EA customer service can access user accounts.]

How To: Contact EA's Customer Service / Use EA Help
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php/topic,21898.msg401708.html#msg401708

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How to Install and/or Uninstall Sims 3, Expansions and Stuff packs

There's two ways to uninstall Sims 3, via the Control Panel or Origin

Via Origin

Install and/or Uninstall Sims 3 and expansions and stuff packs via Origin
https://help.ea.com/en-us/help/the-sims/the-sims-3/the-sims-3-complete-installation-guide/

It is still recommended to run Ccleaner and it's registry cleaner after or before installing the game again. To help clean up files that get left behind in the registry after an uninstall.

Run Ccleaner and it's registry cleaner. Or a similar registry cleaner.

Ccleaner, It's free
- http://www.piriform.com/ccleaner/download  -- PC
- https://www.piriform.com/ccleaner/download?mac -- Mac

How to use CCleaner to fix PC issues
http://www.wikihow.com/Use-CCleaner

==========

Uninstall via the Control Panel

Uninstall the game and all expansions/stuff packs by going to Uninstall a Program in Control Panel. (Control Panel\Programs\Programs and Features)

Look for the Sims 3 expansions/stuff packs you want to uninstall and click on them and select Uninstall for each expansion/stuff pack you want to uninstall.

Run Ccleaner and it's registry cleaner. Or a similar registry cleaner. - Links above.

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Install Sims 3 and expansions via Origin

1. Log into your Origin Account with the email and password you used to purchased the game with.
2. Click on the Game Library tab, right-click on the Sims 3 and select Download. This will download the base game and any expansions, and stuff packs that have been purchased. The download process includes any bonus items.

** There should be no need for the game code, as Origin already has that information. However, if you have this problem, please read the link below for more information.

This Code Has Already been Used?

My Origin Games Are Missing

Note: Key codes for the digital/download version are stored in the Windows registry. So, that's why it is skipping the game code entry when you're installing the game - it uses those keys even though you may be installing it from disc.

3. Run Ccleaner and it's registry cleaner. Or a similar registry cleaner.

Ccleaner, It's free
- http://www.piriform.com/ccleaner/download  -- PC
- https://www.piriform.com/ccleaner/download?mac -- Mac

How to use CCleaner to fix PC issues
http://www.wikihow.com/Use-CCleaner

If you have the Origin version, the Howto link is below:
https://help.ea.com/en/article/the-sims-3-expansion-pack-guide/#getting-started.

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Redeem Bonus Content

Login to your Sims3.com account, using the same email and password you used to purchase/register the game and check your purchase history and download from there. Items will download to the Downloads tab in the launcher.

https://store.thesims3.com/purchaseHistory.html

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If you're having a problem with finding your bonus content you will need to contact EA's Customer Service (HowTo). You may need to verify your account and show proof of purchase. -- If at some point you have registered your discs/games with Sims3.com that might be able to be used as proof of purchase.

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Install Sims 3 via Disc

If you have the full disc version of the game and don't want Origin, each time you install an expansion or stuff pack and it asks to install the latest version of EA installer/Origin - select No. -- This will allow you to stay at patch level 1.67

If you have other Origin games. You'll want to turn off Automatic Game Updates, if you want to stay at patch level 1.67. Here's how to do that:

1. In Origin go to the Origin Menu. (Upper left corner of the Origin client) Click Application Settings.

2. In the Client Update section, uncheck or turn Off Automatic game updates.

3. Close and exit Origin.

4. Uninstall the game and all expansions/stuff packs by going to the Uninstall a Program in Control Panel. (Control Panel\Programs\Programs and Features)

Look for the Sims 3 expansions/stuff packs you want to uninstall and click on them and select Uninstall for each expansion/stuff pack you want to uninstall.

5. Run Ccleaner and it's registry cleaner. Or a similar registry cleaner.

Ccleaner, It's free
- http://www.piriform.com/ccleaner/download  -- PC
- https://www.piriform.com/ccleaner/download?mac -- Mac

How to use CCleaner to fix PC issues
http://www.wikihow.com/Use-CCleaner

6. Reinstall base game from disc, and then run the super patch.

Super Patch (1.67) [The SuperPatcher is meant for 1.67 and below installs only.]
http://answers.ea.com/t5/The-Sims-3/FAQ-Current-Patch-1-67-Manual-links-and-more/td-p/67858

7. At this point the game is at patch level 1.67. Don't let Origin update past this patch level.

8. Install the rest of the disc expansions and stuff packs.

9. Run the FordGT90Concept's Patcher
http://modthesims.info/d/409829
** It will install the patches for the earliest games that got left out of the super patch.

10. Launch the game to make sure it works.

11. If you choose to download and install Sims 3 Store content, please see link below:

How To: Download and Install Store Content
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=20732.msg437664#msg437664

After you've done all this, go into game and check to see if everything is running okay. 

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How to Play/Start the game?

If you have the Origin (digital download) version, you need to be logged into Origin to play the game. As they integrated Origin into Sims 3 in late 2015. However, you can still play offline. By going to the Origin Menu (upper left hand corner of the Origin client) and selecting Go Offline.

Since Jan. 2016 there is no way around getting patch 1.69 if you have recently purchased the Origin  download version of Sims 3.

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How to Play/Start the game with No Internet?

If you have the Origin (digital download 1.69) version of Sims 3 you'll need to login to Origin with your Origin email and password. It will open up the client in offline mode.

Go to My Games to see all your purchased games.Click on Sims 3 and select Play.

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The Expansions Aren't Loading?!

If you're using the Origin download version of Sims 3, patch 1.69 you'll need to checkmark all the expansions you have in the Expansion & Stuff Pack tab in the launcher, before you click Play. Otherwise your expansions may not show up.

Here's a link to a photo of what is being suggested:
http://i.imgur.com/wmdX5k4.jpg

Here's a little more information on Patch 1.69 and Content Manager:
http://sims3.crinrict.com/en/2015/11/patch-1-69.html

Expansion and Stuff Pack Manager
http://sims3.crinrict.com/en/2015/11/expansion-and-stuff-pack-manager.html

Sims 3 Expansion Packs Disappeared From Launcher
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php/topic,20732.msg439553.html#msg439553

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Bought Used Copy of Game

If you've bought or were given a copy of Sims 3, expansions, stuff packs or world discs. It's best to contact EA's Customer Service to see if the issue with redeeming the code, game or worlds can be resolved.

It is an account issue when having problems redeeming game codes. We cannot help with that. [Only EA customer service can access user accounts.] You may need to verify your account and show proof of purchase. -- If at some point you have registered your discs/games with Sims3.com that might be able to be used as proof of purchase.

How To: Contact EA's Customer Service / Use EA Help
http://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php/topic,21898.msg401708.html#msg401708

Once the game code has been used, it cannot be used again. - It's a one-time use only key code. The original owner most likely registered/redeemed the game code to their Sims3.com and/or Origin account already.


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Updated: June. 2017