This is an expansion pack for The Sims, released in 2002 for PC and Mac. It introduces a significant new destination: Vacation Island. This expansion allows Sims to travel away from their home lots for the first time, meaning players can save their game while their Sims are on holiday. Vacation Island is divided into three distinct environments: a beach, a forest, and snow-capped mountains, offering a variety of settings for Sims to explore and interact with.

New Destination and Gameplay

Vacation Island serves as the central new location, providing a break from the everyday routines of suburban life. Sims can engage in numerous new activities across the island's diverse zones. These include relaxing by the beach, trying snowboarding in the mountain region, or enjoying a peaceful campground in the forest. The expansion introduces new non-player characters, such as resort staff who attend to Sim needs and costumed performers designed to entertain younger Sims. However, players must also be aware of potential hazards like pickpockets, poison ivy, and illness, adding an element of risk to the vacation experience.

Activities and Customization

Beyond relaxation and exploration, Sims can participate in souvenir shopping, acquiring mementos of their trip. Accommodation options range from hotels to more rustic choices like tents or igloos. A notable feature is the island's customizability, allowing players to develop or rebuild areas, appealing to those who enjoy creative landscaping and architectural design within the game.

What new content does this expansion add?

This expansion pack significantly enhances the base game by introducing a completely new environment for Sims to visit and interact within. It adds a substantial amount of new items, characters, and activities that are specifically tied to the vacation theme. The ability to save the game while on Vacation Island is a key new gameplay mechanic, allowing for extended holiday experiences without the need to return home immediately. The scope of this expansion is considerable, offering a distinct and separate experience from the Sims' usual domestic life.

Core Gameplay Mechanics Introduced

The primary new mechanic is the ability for Sims to travel to and stay on separate lots away from their home. This introduces a new phase of gameplay focused on leisure and exploration, distinct from the daily life simulation of the base game. The introduction of specific vacation-themed hazards and interactions also adds new layers to Sim management.

Available Content

As an expansion pack, this title does not have any further DLCs, expansions, or remakes associated with it. It is a self-contained addition to the original game.