Getting Ghosts in The Sims 4: A Guide to Life & Death Gameplay

In The Sims 4, stepping into the shoes of a ghost transforms the gameplay experience, especially with the new Life & Death Expansion Pack, which enhances this facet significantly through innovative features.

Although The Sims is predominantly a life simulation, the game often showcases its quirky side, allowing players to indulge in bizarre and whimsical activities that enrich the overall gameplay.

One of the standout features is the ability to assume the role of a ghost. While this concept isn’t entirely new—thanks to various cheats and mods—the Life & Death Expansion Pack injects more excitement into the process.

Currently, you can assume the role of a free-roaming, playable, and temporary ghost after your Sim’s demise.

Types of Ghosts in The Sims 4

After a Sim’s death in The Sims 4, players can opt to become a playable ghost, free-roaming ghost, or a temporary ghost. It’s important to note that among these, the temporary ghost type is unique to the Life & Death Expansion Pack, while the other two were included in a free update released on October 22, 2024.

So, what distinguishes these ghost types? Here’s a detailed explanation.

Playable Ghost

Opting to be a Playable Ghost allows you to continue controlling your Sim even after they’ve passed away. They will remain in your household, making this a perfect choice if you’re not ready to say goodbye. With the Life & Death Expansion Pack, you can also continue their Soul’s Journey by achieving their Unfinished Business.

Free-roaming Ghost

When your Sim becomes a Free-roaming Ghost, they resemble other spectral characters that wander various lots throughout the game. No longer part of your household or playable, you have the option to use cheats if you’re eager to bring them back.

Temporary Ghost

A screenshot showcasing a ghost Sim in The Sims 4 Life and Death Expansion Pack. — ea / dexerto

A ghostly Sim appearing quite pleased with their ghostly existence.

A Temporary Ghost serves as a brief chance to embody a ghost. Any living Sim can experience this status, enabling them to engage in ghostly activities and unlock Ghost Mastery skills while still alive. This transformation typically lasts only a few minutes, after which the Sim reverts to being normal.

Becoming a Temporary Ghost in Life & Death Expansion Pack

There are no specific prerequisites to become a Temporary Ghost since your Sim won’t need to die to access this feature, but they must visit a specific location: the Baleful Bog.

A screenshot featuring the Baleful Bog in Mourningvale. — ea / dexerto

Dive into the Baleful Bog to experience the role of a Temporary Ghost in The Sims 4 Life & Death expansion.

First, access the Ravenwood map from the Life & Death Expansion Pack.
Then, choose a house lot in the Mourningvale area.
Look for the Baleful Bog, a striking blueish-purple lake, on the lot.
Select the Baleful Bog, followed by the option to Have Out of Body Experience.
Watch as your Sim swims in the lake and transforms into a ghost.

Keep in mind that frequent use of this feature can lead to your Sim’s actual death, resulting in a real ghostly existence. Therefore, moderate your attempts to avoid unintended consequences.

How to Become a Playable & Free-Roaming Ghost

Becoming a playable and free-roaming ghost is a simple process. You will receive a pop-up option upon your Sim’s death, allowing you to choose your desired path. If you own the Life & Death expansion, you’ll notice an additional choice at the bottom labeled: Rebirth.

Source

Image Credit: Dexerto.com