The world of The Sims is absolutely huge, and The Sims 4 is still receiving constant content updates. But, there are still some things missing, especially realistic items and options. So we've gathered up the best realistic Sims 4 mods to add a bit of normalcy to your game.
Mods can truly revolutionise games, and The Sims is no different. There are mods for pretty much anything by now; from hairstyles to horticulture. We've picked a handful of mods that add some realistic and sort of mundane things to The Sims 4, like pregnancy options, clutter, and banks. Who doesn't love taxes?
We also have a list of mods to improve Sims 4 gameplay, and our roundup of the latest expansion, Sims 4 Werewolves, to get you ready and set for the next big release. And if that's not enough, check out our page for all things The Sims 5. It's probably ways off yet, but we can always speculate the future wins and losses of the franchise.
The Best Realistic Sims 4 Mods
Without further ado, here are our choices for the best mods to make the Sims that bit more realistic. We've chosen ten, but the list is honestly endless. We'll likely swap things in and out as more are discovered, tweaked, improved, and created, so bookmark the page and check back often.
Pregnancy Overhaul By LittleMsSam
The Pregnancy Overhaul mod by LittleMsSam does exactly what it says on the tin. Sims pregnancies are a little... underwhelming, so this mod kicks it up a notch.
The mod updates what pregnant Sims look like, with different belly sizes, and can disable the pregnant waddle that comes with the later stages. It also adds a lot more actions that pregnant Sims can actually do, like exercising and dancing. There's also an option for Sims to die in childbirth, if that's your thing.
Better Babies & Toddlers By Caradriel
Childhood is a complex and conflicting time for all involved, but The Sims has generally struggled to really capture the ups and downs. The Better Babies & Toddlers mod brings the Sims babies and toddlers up to scratch, tantrums and all.
This mod adds a lot more actions to do with babies and kids; more speech options, worries, and positive interactions. Sims can get the baby blues, or be reluctant to go back to work and leave their precious little ones behind. There are also a lot more interactions with babies and toddlers, such as talking to them and actually asking them what they might like to eat.
Pre-Teen Mod By ItsKatato
The jump between child and teenager can seem like a lot, especially in the Sims 4 where adults and teens often share the same clothing and hair options. To ease us into it, we recommend the Pre-Teen Mod.
The Pre-Teen Mod adds a new trait and a new middle school that the Sims are automatically enrolled in. In terms of mechanics, they'll get the whole realistic treatment. Voices will crack, deodorant needs to be put on, and extra homework is added to the pile.
Automatic Beards By flerb
This is a small change, but is one of the most realistic you can get: Automatic Beards. Sims' facial hair will automatically grow, and you can shave it or style it at any sink. This also requires extra cleaning to really amp up the realism. And yes, you can get shaving cuts. Ouch. Where's the razor burn, though? Ingrown hairs?
Coming Out by NateTheL0ser
Another nice little addition to the behemoth of the The Sims 4 is the Coming Out mod. EA finally added custom pronouns, but there's still a little ways to go to get The Sims 4 properly up to date.
Therefore we recommend this mod, so your Sims can tell their story in their own way. Create your own story, and express your acceptance of family members and friends.
Order Things On Mobile By Szemoka
The Order things on mobile mod is a simple addition that builds on the framework already given to us in a modern Sims game. Phones, like in real life, allow Sims to order food or transport - but that's not really enough.
This mod gives the ability to buy items specific to certain areas like the beach or camping areas, and other shopping choices that were previously unavailable. The mod also includes medicine, pet products, and supernatural items.
SNBank & Bills By Sim Realist
Possibly the most unrealistic part of The Sims franchise is the money situation. Sure, there are bills, and items cost money, but that's about it. That's where the SNBank and Bills mod comes in.
This impressive mod adds everything from loan brokers to property taxes, and even has a SNBank building for Sims to visit. Sims can now get inheritance from passed relatives and friends, they can send money to each other, and even put some away for a rainy day. Do kids get a cute little piggy bank with their first account, though? No. Still, it's one of the best realistic Sims 4 mods around.
SimNation Travel By adeepindigo
SimNation Travel adds a lot to the game, and again fills what feels like an overlooked and obvious area: cars, transport, and travel needs of Sims.
Cars are weirdly missing from Sims 4, even after all these years, so this is the biggest addition of SimNation Travel. To use them, your Sims will need to earn their Drivers License. Or, they can get Subway Cards! Sims will need Passports, and to keep them in date, if they want to travel further afield.
There's a Seasoned Traveler aspiration, and don't forget the Travel Magazine Critic job that suits nomadic people.
Dental Care Mod By adeepindigo And aroundthesims
Everyone has teeth, even Sims - so why don't they have requirements? The Dental Care Mod makes sure we won't forget to brush twice a day.
The mod is a collaboration between users adeepindigo and aroundthesims, and includes anything dental-related you could possibly think of. Sims will need to visit the dentist regularly and can get pains and problems at any time. Children and toddlers will have extra issues: like needing braces!
Clutter Anywhere By plasticbox
Humans love to collect things, and Sims are no different. The Clutter Anywhere mod means Sim homes look a little more lived in and show a little more personality.
Bigger items like vases, TVs and plants can be placed onto furniture items, and smaller pieces can be bunched up together. Gone are the days of not being able to put a fruit bowl on a coffee table. What was that about?
And that's a wrap on our look at the best realistic Sims 4 mods! Hopefully at least one of the many add-ons here strikes your fancy. If not, check back again soon to see a couple more as we rotate, add, remove, and rework the lot. We'll have detailed instructions on how to install them in soon as well, but most come with everything you need to get started.