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How to install & download mods/CC for The Sims 2 Legacy (2025)+ TIPS

Writer's picture: itsmetroiitsmetroi

Updated: Feb 4


Start your Sims 2 mod addiction here....I'm not to be blamed


 


Thanks to the 25th anniversary of The Sims, The Sims 2 is now optimized for modern PCs. If you recently bought The Sims 2 Legacy Collection, you want to revamp this 20-year-old game with mods. Read more here about the rerelease.


Here is how to install and download mods for The Sims 2 in 2025! The video tutorial is below but I've included a step-by-step below.  I've included some tips and know-how too!



VIDEO TUTORIAL



Resources for video


 

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE


Step 1: Have the Sims 2 Legacy Installed via EA app, Steam, or Epic Game Store


Step 2: Load up the game. This will generate the game folders if this is your first time. If you've already played the game. Skip this step.


Step 3: Locate the Sims 2 Folder "Documents > EA Games > The Sims 2 Legacy" or where you have the files stored.

These are the files you're looking for. If you see this folder, you're in the right place.
These are the files you're looking for. If you see this folder, you're in the right place.


Step 4: Create a mods folder and label it "Downloads"


Unlike The Sims 4, you need to make your own mods folder. In The Sims 2, that folder is called "Downloads" and this is how the game will read and pull files into the game.



Step 5: Find a mod/CC you want and download. Make sure you download all required files if any. Some stuff requires meshes for clothing or furniture.


Step 6: Locate the downloaded CC on your computer. Wherever your files go after downloading from the browser, that's where it will be.



Step 7: Extract the mod/CC files. The files come compressed for easy transfer, you need to open the compressed folder using 7zip, WinRAR, or whatever you have. Windows 11 has this built-in, but I've included the 7zip link above.


The file type lets you know when stuff needs to be extracted. See red boxes. Some files look different, it may say "compressed."
The file type lets you know when stuff needs to be extracted. See red boxes. Some files look different, it may say "compressed."

Some files look different but check the file type to know when folders need to be extracted.


For 7zip: Right click file > 7zip > Extract files



Step 8: Open your folder and check your files



The majority of the folders come with additional files. You don't need that stuff. You only need the "MESH" file (if it has one) and the .package files. Always check the creator's post. Some stuff may be different and the creator has specific instructions.



Step 9: Make a sub folder in the Sims 2 Legacy "downloads" folder to keep things organized. For this tutorial, I'm just gonna name it clothes. Name it whatever you want. Check my need-to-know below for additional information about subfolders.




Step 10: Transfer mod files to The Sims 2 legacy downloads folder and into the "Clothes" folder we created.


Step 11: You're done. Close the window. Load up The Sims 2. Clothes in The Sims 2 need to be bought from the store, so you can go purchase them. Watch the video if you still need help. You can switch clothes after buying via the wardrobe. Click "plan outfit."


Comment below if you have questions or if you can help someone else. There's a Sims 2 section in my Discord. When asked during on-boarding, it will ask if you are here for the sims. Say yes. You can join and talk to the community there.


Happy Simming



 


NEED TO KNOW


  • Hair/Makeup..etc: Hair and Makeup can be changed by going to the mirror and selecting "change appearance."

  • Meshes: Some stuff (clothes) require a new mesh to work. Make sure you're reading the instructions and downloading the mesh. This makes the CC a "Recolor."

  • Build/Buy: The build buy catalog differs in The Sims 2. Ensure you're looking for furniture, decor, etc in the buy catalog.

  • Default Replacement: These replace in-game items (including hair and stuff). You can ONLY have one default replacement of an item in the game. So if you download a DR for EA Skins, you can only have that skin placement. You will need to delete that skin replacement to get another if it is also a Default Replacement. Game issues will happen if you are not careful with default replacements.

  • Sub Folders: Don't go too deep in the mod folder with the folder.s If you have too many subfolders, the game won't be able to read the mod files. I like to keep my folder "downloads > folder > mod files" OR "downloads > folder > folder > mod files.

  • New Mesh: Everything you need is included with the download. Don't need to go download additional files for functionality.

  • Caution Signs on Start-Up Menu: This is just alerting you that the mod files are changing in-game settings. You can disregard and enable the mods.

  • Mod Conflicts: Some mods are NOT compatible with other mods. Check the download post.

  • DO NOT DELETE anything from Create a Sim/BuildBuy: You can mess up your game. Delete a mesh that you need..etc. Just do it via the folders with the game shut down.





Game not loading after CC is installed?


Delete the "Accessory.cache and "Groups.cache" in the "The Sims 2 Legacy Folder.





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