Maxis just released The Sims 4 update 2.17 on July 29, and it’s more than just a routine bug fix. This patch tones down the frequency of those pesky Ailments in the Enchanted by Nature pack and patches a frustrating issue on consoles where players couldn’t claim event rewards from the Gallery. So, if you’ve been annoyed by your Sims getting sick way too often or couldn’t grab your event goodies, this update should help.
Let’s break down the key changes, starting with the Ailments system.
Enchanted by Nature – Ailments
The update cuts down Ailments by up to 75%. Sims used to catch Ailments every day on average, but now it’s more like every three days. That’s a big drop, especially if your Sim is juggling a big household or working as a Naturopath. The contagiousness from public toilets and between household Sims is also much lower. Pretty sweet, right?
They also adjusted the Balance system, which decides when Sims get sick from extreme emotions or witnessing death. Before, a Sim could instantly become Very Imbalanced and get sick immediately. Now, there’s a bit more breathing room for Sims to react and get care before falling ill.
Fairy Wings
For those loving the fairy vibes, the update clarifies when Fairy wings show up. There are over 360 distinct animations for Fairy wings, but they’re purposely hidden during certain actions like sitting or riding horses to avoid weird clipping or animation glitches. If your wings vanish unexpectedly, Maxis is asking players to report it on the official forums.
Console Connectivity Fix
Console players who’ve seen an “Online Connection is Required” message or only the Library in the Main Menu when trying to access the Gallery have received a fix. The problem was a missing User Agreement pop-up. To fix it now, you can go to Game Options > Other and hit the “Link EA Account” button to get the updated agreement. Accept it, restart the game, and your Gallery access should come back. Just remember to save your progress before restarting!
Bug Fixes
Enchanted by Nature
- Ailments are less contagious between household Sims and from public toilets, triggering up to 75% less often.
- Balance system tweaks mean witnessing death or extreme emotions no longer instantly cause Very Imbalanced status.
- Naturopath Sims now respect holidays if you have the Seasons pack, so they get the day off.
- “Sponge Bath in Bathroom” and “Bathe in Water” now clean Sims singed by fire properly.
Werewolves
- Werewolf noses can be colored again in Create a Sim.
Base Game
- During limited-time events like Nature’s Calling, Sims now stay at work or school even if other household members travel or join a career.
Multiple Packs
- Get to Work Aliens and Sims wearing outfits from DLC packs no longer appear pitch black or invisible when those packs aren’t installed.
Yikes, that was a lot of fixes! This patch is kinda bigger than usual, and Maxis will have more updates down the line, so stay tuned. What do you think about the ailment changes? Will your Sims finally get a break from constant sickness?
