Entrepreneurially minded The Sims 4 players are about to get a whole new set of options, courtesy of the new Businesses & Hobbies expansion – which’ll enable the likes of player-run pet cafes and tattoo parlours when it launches on 6th March – depending what other DLC you own.
The Sims 4’s Businesses & Hobbies Expansion Pack – the 18th major expansion since its release back in 2014 – is, as its name suggests, focused on two key areas. Starting with hobbies, there’s talk of Hobby Meet-ups, where Sims can socialise with like-minded individuals, learn to master their chosen craft from mentors during Classes and Lecturers, and perhaps even become mentors themselves if they become sufficiently skilled.
Business seems to be where the bulk of the new expansion’s focus lies, however, with players able to establish a small business to bring in the Simoleons. It’s possible to create a dedicated space on a residential lot to sell your wares to passing customers, or you can build on the new Small Business Venture Lot instead. There’s also a new Ticket Kiosk, providing a way to charge customers either one time or by the hour, and players have the choice between hiring staff or running their fledgling enterprise as a family unit.
As a business grow, Sims earn Business Perks – unlocking new interactions and effects – and there’s a Business Renown system enabling players to either run things by the book or to indulge in their unscrupulous side. However, EA notes that becoming a Dreamer or Schemer can impact Sims’ lives outside of work.