The creative Sims 4 community constantly devises exciting challenges to enhance gameplay. If you're interested in experiencing historical eras through your Sims' lives, mastering the Decades Challenge is essential.
Decades Challenge Rules Explained
The core concept transforms every two in-game days into a new calendar year, starting from 1890. Feel free to customize the timeline – the standard version progresses until either 2010 or 2020. With automatic aging disabled, adjusted life expectancies create realism:
- Pre-1950 lifespan: Sims die around age 60
- Post-1950 lifespan: Sims live until approximately 90
The challenge begins with either a single young adult seeking marriage or an established couple. Multi-generational households reflect historical accuracy. Architecture and fashion choices must align with each era's authenticity standards.
Core Restrictions
- World limitations: Strangerville banned entirely, Del Sol Valley unlocks in the 1950s
- Technology usage phased in historically
- Modern amenities progressively introduced
Historical Era Breakdown
1890-1910s: Victorian Transition
- Strict gender roles enforced
- Primitive living conditions
- World War I military drafts implemented
1920-1940s: Modernization Period
- Women's rights expand
- Great Depression economic rules
- World War II mobilization
1950-1970s: Postwar Boom
- Korean and Vietnam War drafts
- Domestic technology revolution
- Social norms liberalize
1980-2000s: Digital Age
- Tech restrictions lifted progressively
- Business career requirements
- Y2K preparation mandates
For complete era-specific guidelines and optional expansions, consult detailed challenge documents from community creators. While the Eco Lifestyle pack enhances realism, the challenge remains adaptable to various DLC combinations.
The Sims 4 is currently available across all major gaming platforms.
