The notorious burglars are back in The Sims 4 after a long hiatus, thanks to a free base game update. A familiar nuisance since The Sims 1, their return adds a new layer of challenge and excitement to the game. This guide provides everything you need to know about encountering and dealing with these unwelcome guests, from attracting them to your lot to defending your valuables.
Provoking a Break-In
Curious about confronting a burglar or simply want to experience the thrill of a heist? Here’s how to increase your chances of a nighttime visit:
Embrace the Heist Havoc Lot Challenge: Amp up the burglar activity on your lot by applying the Heist Havoc Lot Challenge. Navigate to Build/Buy mode, select the house icon in the top left corner, and then choose the question mark tab to access Lot Traits and Challenges. Be warned, this challenge also makes your burglar alarms less reliable, requiring more direct intervention.
Summon a Burglar with Cheats: For a more immediate encounter, utilize cheats. Enable cheats by pressing Shift + Ctrl + C and typing “testingcheats true.” Then, Shift + Left-click on your mailbox and select “Schedule Burglar Visit (Debug).” A burglar will appear at your door the next time night falls.
Protecting Your Home and Possessions
When Robin Banks comes knocking, you have several options for defense:
Install a Burglar Alarm: The simplest and most cost-effective solution is installing the Alertz Burglar Alarm. Available in Build/Buy mode alongside fire alarms and thermostats, this 85 Simolean device will alert your household and scare off burglars when triggered. Remember to place alarms near all entrances, including front and back doors.
Confront the Burglar: Without an alarm, your Sim can fight the burglar (damaging your relationship with Robin Banks), initiate a generally ineffective confrontation, or call the police. While police intervention is possible, it can be slow, so fighting might be the best option to prevent theft.
Utilize Pack-Specific Abilities: Various Game and Expansion Packs offer unique ways to deal with burglars:
- Cats & Dogs: Dogs can chase the burglar away.
- Werewolves: Werewolves can intimidate burglars.
- Realm of Magic: Spellcasters can use spells, including transformations.
- Discover University: Servos can use their defense matrix.
- Get to Work: Scientists can freeze the burglar with a Freeze Ray.
- Vampires: Vampires can feed on the burglar before forcing them to leave.
Disable Burglar Visits Entirely: If you prefer a burglar-free experience, disable burglar visits in Game Options under Gameplay. Toggle the “Allow Burglar Visits” option and apply the changes.
Conclusion
With the return of burglars, The Sims 4 offers new challenges and opportunities for gameplay. Whether you choose to attract them, defend your home, or avoid them altogether, this guide provides the information you need to manage these unexpected encounters. From utilizing cheats to leveraging pack-specific abilities, you are now equipped to handle Robin Banks and keep your belongings safe.
