The Sims 4 is 10 years old and still receiving content! Maxis and EA are giving GTA V a good run for their money! Their latest DLC has taken a bold step with Life and Death. Here you get to explore themes of grief, legacy, and the supernatural. The expansion transforms the typically humorous tone of The Sims 4 into a nuanced and meaningful exploration of life’s journey while still maintaining the series’ signature charm.
They’re creepy and they’re kooky, mysterious and spooky!
With Addams Family vibes, let’s see what the Life and Death expansion pack brings to The Sims 4.
Gameplay
The new DLC introduces the hauntingly beautiful town of Ravenwood, split into “living” and “dead” zones, each with unique activities. Players can organize funerals with personalized ceremonies, write wills, and even design gothic-inspired houses. The Grim Reaper himself becomes a central figure, offering a new Reaper career where Sims can guide souls to the afterlife.
There is a strong supernatural element, whereby Sims can exist as playable ghosts with abilities like possessing objects or scaring others for ghostly currency. Other highlights include tarot readings, secret societies, and a “Bucket List” feature, enabling Sims to fulfil life goals before passing on. The more you tick off, the more rewards you gain. The ultimate path is to complete the list and be reborn. Failing that the Sims can live in the afterlife, trying to complete their unfinished goals.
Along with the crypts and haunted mansions to explore, there are 190 pieces of décor to implement into your builds as well as 148 creative looks for your Sims.
Despite a few minor bugs and rabbit-hole mechanics, the variety of experiences makes playing Life and Death one of the best DLC packs so far.
Graphics & Audio
The visuals in Life and Death are stunning. Ravenwood’s gothic ambiance, with its misty cemeteries and Victorian architecture, provides a perfect backdrop for the expansion’s themes. There is something very Addams Family and Burbs about it all. The contrast between eerie greens and purples in the “dead” zone and the warm, nostalgic tones of the “living” area is visually striking. My lighting bars sure had fun matching the ambiance and illuminating my wall!
The sound design enhances the immersion, featuring somber music during funerals and playful tunes for ghostly shenanigans. Subtle effects, like spectral whispers and creaky doors, deepen the experience without being too overwhelming or annoying.
Longevity
With its expansive content, Life and Death offers hours of gameplay. From unravelling Ravenwood’s secrets to experimenting with new careers, the replay value is immense. The supernatural elements, combined with The Sims life-simulation depth, ensure that players will return to discover new stories and hidden features.
Final Thoughts
The Sims 4: Life and Death is a brilliant addition to the game, blending dark humour with heartfelt storytelling. While it has a few flaws, such as limited depth in ghost levelling, its overall gameplay is fantastic. For fans of occult themes or those seeking a fresh challenge, this expansion is a must-have.
The Sims 4: Life and Death receives the Thumb Culture Gold Award!
Disclaimer: A code was received in order to write this review.
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