As part of The Sims franchise’s twenty-fifth anniversary celebrations, EA and Maxis have announced a wealth of new content, with The Sims 4 receiving the largest share. On February 4, the company unveiled an upcoming Expansion Pack, Businesses & Hobbies, along with three new Kits. While the pack has generated excitement, some players have expressed concern that the title may not accurately reflect its content, particularly in regard to hobbies.
The Businesses & Hobbies Expansion Pack was teased to players in the Motherlode Season roadmap on February 4, and a release trailer followed on February 6. While the trailer showcased various business-related gameplay features, many are still awaiting a full gameplay trailer. Early impressions suggest the pack leans more heavily into business-focused content, leaving the “hobbies” aspect less prominent.
What’s Included in the Businesses & Hobbies Expansion Pack?
The title and some details of the Businesses & Hobbies pack were leaked in January, but the release trailer still generated considerable excitement. As with other Expansion Packs, it includes new gameplay, Create-a-Sim (CAS) items, Build and Buy content, and a new world. The world of Nordhaven, which draws inspiration from Sweden and Scandinavia, features approximately twelve lots spread across two neighborhoods. The Expansion Pack will be released on March 6 for the standard $40 price.
One of the most anticipated features is the ability to create multipurpose lots, a long-requested addition. Players can now design spaces that combine business and residential areas, such as a café with a residential unit on the upper floors. This customization allows for a more dynamic and personalized gameplay experience, as rooms can be designated for public access, employees, or residents only.
The business aspect of the pack expands on The Sims 4‘s previous Get to Work Expansion Pack by allowing players to monetize nearly every skill. Whether it’s teaching classes, charging entry fees, or turning obscure hobbies into profitable ventures, players now have the opportunity to generate wealth through their Sims’ abilities.
The ‘Hobbies’ Component: A Missed Opportunity?
Despite the focus on businesses, some players feel that the “hobbies” aspect of the pack is somewhat underdeveloped. While the business features are expansive, the inclusion of new hobbies seems limited in comparison. Simmers had hoped for more robust hobby-related content, but the pack appears to prioritize business mechanics over leisure activities.
As the Businesses & Hobbies Expansion Pack prepares for its March 6 launch, fans remain excited about the new possibilities it offers for businesses in The Sims 4. However, whether it fully satisfies expectations for hobby content remains to be seen.
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