Its interesting for me to criticize sims 4 . Because I honestly much prefer playing it than Sims 3 . In fact, I don't play sims 3 , even though I could. Because to me there are some areas where it is glaringly worse than Sims 4 . Areas that matter a lot to me .
And people think that if you like something you shouldn't say anything critical of it . But I actually like Sims 4 so much and it has so much potential to be the better Sims game, that it actually frustrates me when they do things like have the water be a facade . Or rabbit hole careers . Or removing house boats , no resorts for travellers , rabbit hole diving and a lack of new group activities and also the re-use of animation
This pack could have definitely been more packed with features. But im sure it will be nice despite what it doesnt have.
"Let Our Hearts And Hands Be Streched Out In Compassion Toward Others."
It may be a bummer for some story tellers, like the ones that do videos. It is of no difference to me, I do play the game to tell stories, but not to share.
When TS4 simmers act like something doesn't matter, it just encourages the devs to continue putting out packs that aren't as detailed as previous iterations. You're part of the problem.
Please don't do this anymore. Hold the fire to the devs' feet and push them to do better. I think Island Living is a good pack because people wanted more out of the previous packs and the devs listened. However, it could have been better as can be seen by the complaints already coming out. It's not to put the pack in a bad light - it's still a nice pack - but I hope the complaints encourage the devs to put more details in for the Uni and Supernatural packs (and any other packs after this).
For me, the Island Living EP gives me real hope that EAxis may be returning to making great packs once again as in previous iterations. And in turn, if we keep urging them, then TS5 will be AMAZING!
Some people are pointing out that its a small detail that doesn't affect gameplay, only storytelling, but the entire point of the sims is that its a story? Like, you obv don't need to be posting videos and photos of your story if you don't want to, but by playing the game you're going through a story with your sims. Whether your super invested in your sims' lives or just casually playing, there's still that element of "this is a character and I'm going through THEIR life". If that isn't storytelling then idk what is lol. So, going back to the og post, not having an animation may not be a big deal if you only think about the game mechanics, but its a pivotal point in your sims' story that just,, falls flat. Yes, it's a tiny detail, but if your sims game was a novel, becoming a mermaid would be (imo) a pretty big plot point. It's not a deal breaker, and I'm sure the pack is amazing, but it's just small things (like an animation for a pivotal event) that are stopping the sims from being a completely polished game. It's not even that difficult to do, but I think the sims team is stretched so thin that they can't really make time for the details like that.
Some people are pointing out that its a small detail that doesn't affect gameplay, only storytelling, but the entire point of the sims is that its a story? Like, you obv don't need to be posting videos and photos of your story if you don't want to, but by playing the game you're going through a story with your sims. Whether your super invested in your sims' lives or just casually playing, there's still that element of "this is a character and I'm going through THEIR life". If that isn't storytelling then idk what is lol. So, going back to the og post, not having an animation may not be a big deal if you only think about the game mechanics, but its a pivotal point in your sims' story that just,, falls flat. Yes, it's a tiny detail, but if your sims game was a novel, becoming a mermaid would be (imo) a pretty big plot point. It's not a deal breaker, and I'm sure the pack is amazing, but it's just small things (like an animation for a pivotal event) that are stopping the sims from being a completely polished game. It's not even that difficult to do, but I think the sims team is stretched so thin that they can't really make time for the details like that.
It's the little details like that one , that made sims 2 feel so special . Sims 4 needs a lot of that It's missing.
"Let Our Hearts And Hands Be Streched Out In Compassion Toward Others."
You guys are talking about when a Sim first becomes a mermaid correct? There is no animation showing them changing from a normal Sim into a mermaid? While it isn't a big deal for me, I can see why it would be for others. I certainly would not have objected to it being added, I can't really think of a reason it wouldn't have been. They did add it to Vampires after all.
Alright cool it off in here, not every thread on new content needs to turn into an argument over what was in previous games or what should've been brought in, everyone's got their differing opinions on this and that's completely fine but let's leave it out with talking about how people are "part of the problem" just because they don't have the same issues you do with a game, and vice versa. Whether you like whats in the game or coming to it or not, we're all people who enjoy playing The Sims, so there's absolutely no need to start bickering with each other.
You guys are talking about when a Sim first becomes a mermaid correct? There is no animation showing them changing from a normal Sim into a mermaid? While it isn't a big deal for me, I can see why it would be for others. I certainly would not have objected to it being added, I can't really think of a reason it wouldn't have been. They did add it to Vampires after all.
It's kind of like it's two steps down from Vampires, when you take into account everything.
Vampires had two things, they had the actual transformation, but before that there was the whole "process" of transforming, where your Sim feels the gradual effects of becoming a Vampire through a change in appetite and whatnot (the moodlets!).
Plus there's a few ways to actually start the process. You can seek out a Vampire and ask them, a Vampire you're controlling can just go up to a Sim and turn them, or if you're friends you might receive a call from a Vampire saying they have something "important" to ask you.
I mean, if they did the exact same thing to mermaids, it'd probably be lame since they're pretty different and it's not like I'd want it to be identical but...
Ya'know! Something like the Sim feeling a call to the Ocean. Transform in a whoosh of sea foam. Twirling! Sparkles! Musical accompaniment!
Pomp and circumstance and all that. One thing the Sims 4 has for it is definitely its looks, so taking advantage of that is always a good thing.
It'd also be pretty neat if you were friends with a Mermaid and they sought you out with a gift of Mermadic Kelp with the intent of letting you join them in the life of a Mermaid!
I am a little bummed about it, but I think for the most part It's not a deal breaker for me. I do wish they had some kind of animation, but I also wouldn't want one as long as The Sims 3. That transformation animation took way too long in my opinion (maybe my game glitched or something.) Anyways, an animation would have been nice, but most of the time, if I want to play as a mermaid, I think I'm going to just create them in CAS. Plus, after a mermaid has transformed they are so much fun that I honestly don't even think about the disappointing transformation.
I am a little bummed about it, but I think for the most part It's not a deal breaker for me. I do wish they had some kind of animation, but I also wouldn't want one as long as The Sims 3. That transformation animation took way too long in my opinion (maybe my game glitched or something.) Anyways, an animation would have been nice, but most of the time, if I want to play as a mermaid, I think I'm going to just create them in CAS. Plus, after a mermaid has transformed they are so much fun that I honestly don't even think about the disappointing transformation.
The initial transformation from sim to mermaid in TS3 wasn't long. It was just the right length to mark the first time as a special moment. Don't you think the inclusion of one would have been better? Because the people who cared about it would have it for their stories or immersion and the people who don't care about it can just ignore it. No one will feel something is missing. But as it is, the missing animation just further emphasizes the emptiness of this game. The little things add up, even more so this late in the game's run. This is why even little missing things are becoming a big deal.
A good reason as to why mermaids should have the metamorphosis animation, is to give an indication of sorts they become mermaid. While it does have a moodlet, it can easily go unnotice (because really, how many of you guys often bother to check superficial moodlets?) - leaving players puzzled/perplexed why their Sims grew their tail. Players who don't follow all the informatives bits and have much of understanding of unexperience EP's mechanic will not be able to tell why Sim become a mermaid once they enter the water. They either wouldn't remember the kelp eating bit or be oblivious to the fact that's consuming is what caused the transition.
And if I were honest, personally having to receive the kelp and eat it is lamely reused method. Could have been a bit more creative...
A good reason as to why mermaids should have the metamorphosis animation, is to give an indication of sorts they become mermaid. While it does have a moodlet, it can easily go unnotice (because really, how many of you guys often bother to check superficial moodlets?) - leaving players puzzled/perplexed why their Sims grew their tail. Players who don't follow all the informatives bits and have much of understanding of unexperience EP's mechanic will not be able to tell why Sim become a mermaid once they enter the water. They either wouldn't remember the kelp eating bit or be oblivious to the fact that's consuming is what caused the transition.
And if I were honest, personally having to receive the kelp and eat it is lamely reused method. Could have been a bit more creative...
Not just that. It's anticlimactic.....!
You get to have mermadic kelp in the game which is a rare find, your human sim becomes a mermaid....and all you get is a moodlet? What the actual....
Omg I actually can't believe people are okay with the lack of animation here. This game has been putting visuals above gameplay for years, reusing the same few animations for years, and finally we don't even get one for a mermaid transformation and no one cares? It's a little detail, but still something you'd expect. A jingle or some bubbles or something. And not for every time a mermaid gets into the water, just the first time after eating the kelp.
I'm kinda shocked at what people will accept, but even I've learned to keep my expectations low with this game.
I made a Sims 4 Save File set 15 years into the future using the premade sims by giving them family trees, storylines and lore, fixed and added relationships, and more!
Check it out here! -> kookablarn.tumblr.com
I'm kinda shocked at what people will accept, but even I've learned to keep my expectations low with this game.
I second that. Benefits the developers to see how much of damage pipes they can use for testing the waters. Ceiling can drip for as much consumers can care, before the next thing you know their room will be flooded and start drowning until it's too late. #WowCleverAnalogy
I do hope and wish that the time when fans will break and exclaim "enough is enough. I had". Though at same time I'm not holding onto that possible 'moment', *sighs*.
Omg I actually can't believe people are okay with the lack of animation here. This game has been putting visuals above gameplay for years, reusing the same few animations for years, and finally we don't even get one for a mermaid transformation and no one cares? It's a little detail, but still something you'd expect. A jingle or some bubbles or something. And not for every time a mermaid gets into the water, just the first time after eating the kelp.
I'm kinda shocked at what people will accept, but even I've learned to keep my expectations low with this game.
I just do not need another "pretty looking" transformation. That is all I view it as. It has very little to do with the significant gameplay features I need for the game. Maybe it is because I need more than that. My expectations is that the team will only ever give us the shallow gameplay and pretty looking backdrops.
While i'm also baffled at the lack of transform animation, i'm surprised more people aren't saying anything about mermaids and the ladders. Mermaids can use pool ladders to get in AND out, but can't use the dock ones? This basically means that your human sim can live in a house completely surrounded by water but your mermaid cannot. Why didn't they copy the animation over from pool ladders? Very sloppy implementation all round imo.
> @nerdfashion said: > I think this adds to the secrecy of mermaids. They are supposed to be a legend around the island, but everybody seems to know about vampires and plant sims and aliens. Mermaids are more of a legend to scare people from going to far out to sea and getting attacked by sharks (this IS a feature in the new pack!).
Nah, that's bs and an excuse for them not adding more stuff
While i'm also baffled at the lack of transform animation, i'm surprised more people aren't saying anything about mermaids and the ladders. Mermaids can use pool ladders to get in AND out, but can't use the dock ones? This basically means that your human sim can live in a house completely surrounded by water but your mermaid cannot. Why didn't they copy the animation over from pool ladders? Very sloppy implementation all round imo.
I guess because it's very high and thus weight/muscle tasking for mermaid to climb. Though, could have included a small pier (for boats to park) or of that kind of naturevto climb onto, before drying off to grow their legs and thus use the object.
I just read a very short interview that contained Jill Johnson's comments, I think this is all on purpose to not have any significant change in the mermaid due to they highly considered those who like reality in the game (over those who love occult Sims) and had them in mind when they created mermaids.
ETA: Quotes from that article:
Players can make a mermaid, turn into one by purchasing special kelp, or discover covert mermaids in the world. These mermaids among the populace have “a few fishy behaviors that give themselves away a little bit,” according to Johnson. But if players never befriend them and ask if they are a mermaid, they’ll stay undercover forever, and their Sulani will never become supernatural.
* Note: We were extremely cognizant of making sure that we could satisfy the players that like the realism that like being able to go to work, being able to raise their family, but also the players that love the occult,” says producer Jill Johnson about the development
"Games Are Not The Place To Tell Stories, Games Are Meant To Let People Tell Their Own Stories"...Will Wright.
There's no sense in that response that explains the absense of mermaid transformation even If it were plausible legit:
We didn't do m e r m a i d transformation, for the sake of pleasing realism driven players?
Then again, gurus sometimes do give similar explanations about shortcuts that really don't explain why contradicting things exist (doghouses are a torture, not costumes; board games are too niche, but who the hell knows why we have a cupcake machine & observatory in the game) casino doesn't appeal T rating, but hey there is alcohol renamed as "juice" because eff you)
There's no sense in that response that explains the absense of mermaid transformation even If it were plausible legit:
We didn't do m e r m a i d transformation, for the sake of pleasing realism driven players?
Then again, gurus sometimes do give similar explanations about shortcuts that really don't explain why contradicting things exist (doghouses are a torture, not costumes; board games are too niche, but who the hell knows why we have a cupcake machine & observatory in the game) casino doesn't appeal T rating, but hey there is alcohol renamed as "juice" because eff you)
She goes on to say that if your Sim isn't merwoke they won't even notice there are mermaids and if they are they will have different reactions to them. Does that even happen? I haven't seen anyone say anything like that when they have played this island. So, is that another 'feature' that doesn't even work the way she said it would work, because I haven't seen anyone mention it.
"Games Are Not The Place To Tell Stories, Games Are Meant To Let People Tell Their Own Stories"...Will Wright.
While i'm also baffled at the lack of transform animation, i'm surprised more people aren't saying anything about mermaids and the ladders. Mermaids can use pool ladders to get in AND out, but can't use the dock ones? This basically means that your human sim can live in a house completely surrounded by water but your mermaid cannot. Why didn't they copy the animation over from pool ladders? Very sloppy implementation all round imo.
I guess because it's very high and thus weight/muscle tasking for mermaid to climb. Though, could have included a small pier (for boats to park) or of that kind of naturevto climb onto, before drying off to grow their legs and thus use the object.
My mermaid can go to the gym the first time she hits dryland and run on a treadmill literally all day. I think any kind of argument around realism is a moot point. Its just sloppiness.
Its the little details some people don't care in The Sims 4 that makes The Sims 2 the most beloved game of the franchise. Just sayin'...
Bingo! Sims 2 was an beautiful game that I fondly remember even though you had an quarter of an block and loading screens but it was the interaction I had with the Sims and the quirks it had that made me love it maybe even more than Sims 3. However EA/Maxis was slowly moving moving away from the formula with each version and went totally cold turkey on Sims 4 and it was like I was having withdrawal symptoms when Sims 4 base came out, it was so bland at that time as it was lackluster.
Post edited by Goldmoldar on
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Comments
And people think that if you like something you shouldn't say anything critical of it
This pack could have definitely been more packed with features. But im sure it will be nice despite what it doesnt have.
Thank you!
It's the little details like that one , that made sims 2 feel so special . Sims 4 needs a lot of that
Well said.
It's kind of like it's two steps down from Vampires, when you take into account everything.
Vampires had two things, they had the actual transformation, but before that there was the whole "process" of transforming, where your Sim feels the gradual effects of becoming a Vampire through a change in appetite and whatnot (the moodlets!).
Plus there's a few ways to actually start the process. You can seek out a Vampire and ask them, a Vampire you're controlling can just go up to a Sim and turn them, or if you're friends you might receive a call from a Vampire saying they have something "important" to ask you.
I mean, if they did the exact same thing to mermaids, it'd probably be lame since they're pretty different and it's not like I'd want it to be identical but...
Ya'know! Something like the Sim feeling a call to the Ocean. Transform in a whoosh of sea foam. Twirling! Sparkles! Musical accompaniment!
Pomp and circumstance and all that. One thing the Sims 4 has for it is definitely its looks, so taking advantage of that is always a good thing.
It'd also be pretty neat if you were friends with a Mermaid and they sought you out with a gift of Mermadic Kelp with the intent of letting you join them in the life of a Mermaid!
Or do both and create yourself as a mermaid.
The initial transformation from sim to mermaid in TS3 wasn't long. It was just the right length to mark the first time as a special moment. Don't you think the inclusion of one would have been better? Because the people who cared about it would have it for their stories or immersion and the people who don't care about it can just ignore it. No one will feel something is missing. But as it is, the missing animation just further emphasizes the emptiness of this game. The little things add up, even more so this late in the game's run. This is why even little missing things are becoming a big deal.
And if I were honest, personally having to receive the kelp and eat it is lamely reused method. Could have been a bit more creative...
Not just that. It's anticlimactic.....!
You get to have mermadic kelp in the game which is a rare find, your human sim becomes a mermaid....and all you get is a moodlet? What the actual....
I'm kinda shocked at what people will accept, but even I've learned to keep my expectations low with this game.
I made a Sims 4 Save File set 15 years into the future using the premade sims by giving them family trees, storylines and lore, fixed and added relationships, and more!
Check it out here! -> kookablarn.tumblr.com
I do hope and wish that the time when fans will break and exclaim "enough is enough. I had". Though at same time I'm not holding onto that possible 'moment', *sighs*.
I just do not need another "pretty looking" transformation. That is all I view it as. It has very little to do with the significant gameplay features I need for the game. Maybe it is because I need more than that. My expectations is that the team will only ever give us the shallow gameplay and pretty looking backdrops.
> I think this adds to the secrecy of mermaids. They are supposed to be a legend around the island, but everybody seems to know about vampires and plant sims and aliens. Mermaids are more of a legend to scare people from going to far out to sea and getting attacked by sharks (this IS a feature in the new pack!).
Nah, that's bs and an excuse for them not adding more stuff
I guess because it's very high and thus weight/muscle tasking for mermaid to climb. Though, could have included a small pier (for boats to park) or of that kind of naturevto climb onto, before drying off to grow their legs and thus use the object.
ETA: Quotes from that article:
Players can make a mermaid, turn into one by purchasing special kelp, or discover covert mermaids in the world. These mermaids among the populace have “a few fishy behaviors that give themselves away a little bit,” according to Johnson. But if players never befriend them and ask if they are a mermaid, they’ll stay undercover forever, and their Sulani will never become supernatural.
* Note: We were extremely cognizant of making sure that we could satisfy the players that like the realism that like being able to go to work, being able to raise their family, but also the players that love the occult,” says producer Jill Johnson about the development
We didn't do m e r m a i d transformation, for the sake of pleasing realism driven players?
Then again, gurus sometimes do give similar explanations about shortcuts that really don't explain why contradicting things exist (doghouses are a torture, not costumes; board games are too niche, but who the hell knows why we have a cupcake machine & observatory in the game) casino doesn't appeal T rating, but hey there is alcohol renamed as "juice" because eff you)
She goes on to say that if your Sim isn't merwoke they won't even notice there are mermaids and if they are they will have different reactions to them. Does that even happen? I haven't seen anyone say anything like that when they have played this island. So, is that another 'feature' that doesn't even work the way she said it would work, because I haven't seen anyone mention it.
My mermaid can go to the gym the first time she hits dryland and run on a treadmill literally all day. I think any kind of argument around realism is a moot point. Its just sloppiness.
Bingo! Sims 2 was an beautiful game that I fondly remember even though you had an quarter of an block and loading screens but it was the interaction I had with the Sims and the quirks it had that made me love