TIPS & TRICKS FOR THE SIMS 4
Whether you’re just learning how to play The Sims™ 4 or you’re looking to improve your game, we’ve got the tips and tricks for you! We’ve got hotkeys and shortcuts, plus easy ways to jump right into Live mode at the start of a new game.
How to Use Hotkeys
Tired of messing about with the camera controls for the perfect angle on that home you’re building? Did you know you can use hotkeys in The Sims 4 to make playing easier than ever? Try out some of the shortcuts here to take control of your game!
General Controls
Cancel
Esc
Toggle cheat console
Ctrl + Shift + C
Time Controls
Pause game
P / 0 / `
Regular/fast/ultra speed
1 / 2 / 3
Camera Movement
Move left/right
Arrow Left/Right or A/D
Move forward/back
Arrow Up/Down or W/S
Move faster
Shift (hold) + Camera Movement
Zoom in/out
Z/X or +/-
Toggle Map mode
M
Live Mode — Sim/Household Controls
Switch to next Sim in household
Spacebar/N
Switch to specific Sim
Click Sim portrait
Lock camera to Sim
Right-click Sim portrait
Center camera on active Sim
Enter
Build Mode — Object Placement Tools
Undo/redo
Ctrl + Z / Ctrl + Y
Rotate object
, /. (once object selected)
Delete object
Del / Backspace
Off-grid placement
Alt (while holding object)
Off-angle placement
Alt (while rotating object)
Move to slot
M
Toggle grid
G
Select wall tool
B
Toggle top-down view
T
Toggle quarter tile placement
CTRL+F (while holding floor tile)
Flood fill
Shift (while holding floor tile)
Build a room
Shift (while holding wall)
How to Use the Gallery
Download Sims from the Gallery
If randomized Sims just aren’t working out for you, head to the Gallery! Players like you who love creating Sims can upload their creations for you to use in your game. When you download Sims from the Gallery, they keep all of their personalities and quirks, too.
Download Lots from the Gallery
If you want homes with a bit more personality, though, take a trip to the Gallery again! Browse through thousands of player-made homes to find the perfect one for your Sims. Whether you’re looking for fully furnished Lots or simply browsing individual Rooms like you’re in a furniture showroom, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for.
Scroll To TopHow to Play With Premade Sims and Homes
Randomize Sims
If you want to skip creating Sims, it’s super fast and easy to get into the game. When you’re in Create-A-Sim mode, you can opt to let the game randomize a Sim for you. But did you know you can also find Sims in the Gallery?
Buy Prefurnished Homes
When you’re starting a new game, you can move your Sims right into pregenerated homes. Think of them as starter homes! If you’re not a confident builder or you just want to jump straight into Live mode, these homes are perfect. Most neighborhoods have at least one prebuilt home your Sims can purchase.
Scroll To TopDon’t Forget Cheats!
It’s not cheating if we give you the answers! From making your Sims Simoleonaires to ignoring the grid in Build mode, read up on how to cheat here and try it out in your game today!
Scroll To TopWhether you’re an experienced player or a newcomer, these community-created tips and tricks videos will help maximize your fun in The Sims 4 on Xbox One and PlayStation® 4
Sul sul! (That means “hi” in Simlish!)
Sims 101: Intro to The Sims 4™!
Master The Controls
Navigate the user interface across all game modes with speed and ease.
Create Unique Sims
Explore Create A Sim and how to customize your Sim’s look and personality.
Build The Perfect Home
Get familiar with Build Mode, how to construct a home, and add décor.
Cheat To Get Ahead
Access the cheats panel to gain more control over your creations and Sims’ lives.