The Journey To Batuu game pack marks a huge first for The Sims 4. It's a crossover project and brings the Star Wars franchise into the much-loved life simulator. However, the announcement was met with mixed reviews, with many skeptical about what the pack would involve and if it would have replay value.
With such a niche theme, this is a pack that very much feels unique. The main gameplay is completely separate from anything else in the game and as such it is a pack you can skip without it feeling like you're missing out. Here we take a look at the main features of Journey To Batuu so you can decide if it's worth it for you.
10 Batuu Is A Unique Destination World
Batuu is a vacation world but functions more independently than Granite Falls or Selvadorada. You can visit for free and for as long as you want, meaning you could technically live here, although the accommodation leaves a little to be desired.
The lots aren't built for living, but thanks to cheats, you can adjust them slightly and add the necessities. The Resistance camp also includes most facilities as standard.
9 There Are Three Factions To Explore
Once on Batuu, you can play freely, using the planet as a sandbox, or you can work through the storylines of one of the three factions. The Resistance and First Order factions will be known to those who saw any of the last six movies, and doing missions and gaining the respect of one decreases your reputation with the other.
These two factions are the core of Star Wars and play as two opposing viewpoints of the same story. However, they aren't as similar in terms of missions as you may assume.
If you want to remain more neutral, or you want a side gig then the Scoundrels will accept anyone at all into their clan. You can play odd missions or undertake the storyline that involves planning and pulling off a big job for Hondo.
8 You Can Repeat Missions To Earn More Credits
Batuu uses Imperial Credits as a currency and these are gained through missions, skimming, winning at Sabbat, or scamming fellow residents. Used to purchase food, droids, lightsabers, and other surprises and supplies, Credits are necessary for a long term stay.
Aside from the main storylines, there are repeatable missions for all three factions. While they may get dull they are a quick and easy way to boost your credits so you can stock up on Star Wars supplies.
7 You Can Create Aliens But With Limits
Some alien races are available to make in create a sim using skin details. Twi'leks and Mirialans have full-colored skins but the others are created using costumes or limited sets of hats, gloves, and leggings creating skins that only allow for high cut, long-sleeved clothing to be used.
Strangely, while you can run around Willow Creek as a Zabrak or Bith, all the alien cosmetics are restricted in Batuu, so you can only visit as a regular sim wearing pack specific clothing.
6 Spaceships Function Like Rocket Ships
Star Wars fans will recognize the TIE Echelon, X-Wing, and Millenium Falcon but it's worth noting that flying them works like flying a rocket ship in the regular game. You'll "board" by vanishing when you approach and then you'll see a take-off animation.
Once the ship has set off the camera stays on Batuu and then as a player you'll make choices through a series of options presented on-screen. It's a slightly nicer looking version of going on a mission in the regular rocket. The game just adds some illustrations and a few extra choices.
5 Sims Can Buy Droids And Lightsabers
While on Batuu your sim will be able to purchase or earn different lightsabers. There are several hilts to collect as well as different colors of kyber crystal. These two items are combined to make a range of unique lightsabers that can be brought back from Batuu.
You can also purchase a BB or R2 unit, choosing from several colors and styles. You can also choose to buy a personality chip if you prefer, adding unique interactions to your droids.
4 You Can Bring Items Home From Batuu
Droids, lightsabers, and other souvenirs can be purchased in Batuu and brought back to your regular home. While they will have limited capabilities, especially the droids, you can still use them.
Giving a friend a lightsaber will allow you to duel them and the droids can be used as a unique radio that follows you around. Most other items are decorative.
3 Batuu Is A Totally Separate World
Batuu is completely separate from any other Sims world. Not only do the townies not overlap but none of your actions on Batuu affect anything else in the game. Even the Star Wars aspiration rewards are specific to Batuu.
While you can also use Batuu alien skins and clothing in the regular world, the default is that all items in this pack stay in Batuu unless you choose to bring them to another world.
2 The Build And Buy items Are Unique
The build and buy items have an industrial vibe and are more versatile than expected. However, they are very much in keeping with the Star Wars vibe, so if you hate this then you'll likely hate the items.
For those who want to build bunkers, industrial lots, Apocalypse-style dwellings, or anything with a Star Wars vibe the items are extensive and flexible.
1 Create A Sim Has Some New Options
The create a sim options are lightweight, unique clothing that fits the sandy desert vibe of many Star Wars worlds. They include options for all, from toddler to elder, and are quite versatile.
If you want to go full cosplay then you can also unlock iconic items including Stormtrooper outfits. While Batuu only allows Batuu outfits to be worn, the other worlds are unrestricted, meaning you can be a First Order enforcer anywhere you like.