The Sims™ 4

Re-acquainting myself with The Sims 4 was akin to reuniting with an old friend. I first experienced this virtual world years ago on PS4 and then drifted away, lured by the siren call of action-packed shooters and dungeon crawlers. However, a newly acquired PC and an enticing price tag on the Origin launcher drew me back into the fold. 

Living Vicariously Through Virtual Lives

The charm of The Sims 4 lies in the seemingly mundane. As I animatedly set about recreating my colleagues into virtual avatars and watched them inhabit the San Myshuno apartments, I realized just how engaging this game can be. The beauty of The Sims is in observing these virtual beings go about their day. Whether it's jamming on a guitar, painting portraits, or just sleeping in oddly random places, the gameplay offers a captivating slice of ordinary life, albeit with a more carefree attitude to social norms. 

Visual Treats of Virtual Worlds

The Sims 4 has come a long way since the early days of the series, with the presentation and graphics truly coming to the fore. The vibrancy of the Island Living expansion pack, where your sims could swim with dolphins or chill with mermaids, is a testament to how visually appealing the game has become. The visuals not only make the game aesthetically pleasing but also add depth and immersion to the gameplay.

The Allure of Add-ons

The Sims 4 offers an array of add-on packs that significantly enhance the game. While the base game is frequently available at a budget price, these additional content packs offer much more variety, albeit for a pretty penny. From the life-simplifying Tiny Living pack to the adventure-filled Discover University and City Living packs, these expansions significantly alter the game experience. 

The Game's Persistence in Refusing Perfection

While The Sims 4 is a delightful game, it still grapples with a few recurring issues. The AI can occasionally be stubborn, refusing instructions or behaving inexplicably. This unpredictability can disrupt the gameplay to some extent. Also, the pricing of the expansion packs can put a dent in your wallet as they do not come cheap.

A Resilient Classic Worth Revisiting

Despite these foibles, there is an undeniable charm to The Sims 4 that keeps me coming back. The game offers a refreshing contrast from the grimmer titles I usually indulge in. With a mix of routine tasks and unexpected adventures, The Sims 4 offers a unique blend that keeps the game alive and kicking in 2020.