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Before Outdoor Retreat, game packs for The Sims 4 didn't exist. Earlier games in the franchise only contained Stuff Packs and Expansion Packs. The Game Pack bridges the gap, offering fewer items and more gameplay than Stuff Packs while being smaller in scale and price when compared to Expansion Packs.

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As the first of its type, Outdoor Retreat does fade in comparison to some of the later Game Packs. It's niche focus also means that for players who don't care about vacations and outdoor activities it can feel like a waste of time. However, this game pack isn't without its charms. Here's what you need to know before you buy Outdoor Retreat.

10 You Can Go On Vacation To Granite Falls

The main new feature of the pack is the introduction of vacations and the very first vacation world of Granite Falls. It features five rental lots, four of which have rental cabins on them and one of which is a campsite. There's also a National Park lot for sims to visit.

Sims can only access the world through booking a vacation using their phone or a computer. The National Park can only be visited while Sims are in Granite Falls, although all lots are editable through the regular manage worlds tools.

9 There's A New Herbalism Skill

Granite falls in the rain

The herbalism skill allows Sims to identify herbs that are found in Granite Falls. Identified herbs can then be collected and brewed in order to make different recipes. These recipes will require herbs, regular gardening ingredients, and also insects. To make sure you have everything you need you'll have to go herb and insect hunting while still in Granite Falls.

There are over a dozen recipes in total and they provide boosts to your sims. Some replenish needs, some eliminate negative moodlets and others add positive moodlets. There are also a couple with less desirable effects.

8 Sims Can Now Collect Bugs

Collecting insects is a niche addition to the game. While there are odd insects that are valuable, most are only worth a few simoleons and their usefulness is debatable. You'll need some insects for herbalism recipes but they have no other use beyond completing the collection.

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The most likely use is for players enjoying Kawaii Stacie's Animal Crossing challenge and mod. They can use insects to create a bug, fish, and fossil museum worthy of Blathers himself.

7 There's A Secret Lot To Discover

Explorers can discover the Deep Woods hidden lot, which is home to a hermit. This lot also contains some valuable resources, as well as the hermit, who can teach Sims a new and powerful fertilizer recipe.

The fishing spot can yield the rare mountain lionfish and there are also many wild plants, insects, and other collectibles. Those looking to complete collections should definitely make the trip.

6 You'll Discover A New Trait And Aspiration

The pack also introduces a new squeamish trait that makes Sims uncomfortable when faced with insects, vomiting, and anything that isn't clean. They will also be more uncomfortable around death or violence.

The new aspiration is Outdoor Enthusiast and will guide Sims through the main features of the new pack, including camping, exploring, and collecting.

5 Sims Can Now Go Camping

Camping has also been added to the game and Sims can purchase tents and other camping essentials from the supply shack in Granite Falls. You can also access these items through the regular build and buy catalog. Sims vacationing on the campsite lot will need supplies to keep their needs high.

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Tents can be used to sleep, read, and WooHoo. They can also be placed on any lot type, meaning garden and park camping is also possible.

4 There Is A New Social Event

Sims will be able to set up the firepit and host a weenie roast event. The firepits also unlock new recipes and Sims can cook marshmallows and hot dogs over the fire.

Gathering together Sims can unlock a hand-carved chess table and the let's go fishing chair by hosting a successful event. Just make sure you don't stand too close to the fire.

3 Sims Can Enjoy New Activities And Interactions

As well as the new social event, Sims will also be able to enjoy playing the outdoor-friendly horseshoe game. You'll also notice new social interactions.

Cloud gazing and stargazing are added in this pack and both interactions increase focus and friendship very quickly when done in a pair. Sims can also tell group stories around the campfire.

2 The Build and Buy Mode Is Rustic Themed

The build and buy catalog items are very much rustic themed. Several are camping related and others are best at home in a log cabin. While they may not fit a regular home, the items do cover all the essentials.

You'll be able to make log cabins, summer houses, and rustic extensions with the new items. The camping items also fit perfectly with rags to riches type gameplay where players need to build up to a home.

1 The New Clothing Is Made For Outdoor Adventures

The clothing in this game is designed for outdoor adventure. Filled with sweaters, boots, and other sturdy casual items the create a sim options are quite versatile. They can also make good cold weather clothing outfits.

While most of the clothing feels quite hiking adventure specific, there are a few staples in here that can be easily combined with other items for a more everyday look. You'll also find some summer options in the lineup.

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