8 Solutions for Sims 4 Not Launching Problems [and Why]

Lynn Hu
Jul 29, 2025 / Updated by Lynn Hu to Video Fix

No loading screen, just Sims 4 not launching on your desktop instead of giving you a vibrant world of your Sims. Whether you're a seasoned builder or just simply escaping reality, a non-launching game is a roadblock to your fun. And like any other game, The Sims 4 can face hiccups that prevent it from starting up properly. The good news? This post compiled 8 proven fixes that can resolve Sims 4 not opening or loading problems and get you back in your virtual world!

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Before diving into solutions, it's crucial to understand why Sims 4 game won't open or load correctly. Several reasons can trigger this problem, including technical or software-related. Here are the most common reasons:

  • • Corrupted Game Files. Necessary game files may be damaged or lost, preventing the game from launching.
  • • Outdated Graphic Drivers. Using outdated GPU drivers can result in compatibility issues, causing the game to freeze, crash, or fail to launch.
  • • Conflicts with Mods. Broken mods can clash with game updates, which is why the Sims 4 not launching issue occurs.
  • • Background Programs. With antivirus programs or software like Discord running, they may have a conflict with the Sims 4 startup process.
  • • Corrupted Cache. Temporary files in the game can become corrupted, which prevents a smooth loading process.
  • • Insufficient Permissions. Without the administrator rights, The Sims 4 may not be able to access crucial system resources.
  • • Display Resolution Issues. If The Sims 4 launches in an unsupported resolution, it may crash or display a black screen.

8 Ways to Fix Sims 4 Not Launching, Opening, or Working

Now that you know the reasons behind why Sims 4 not launching and is just stuck on the loading screen, it's time for the solutions. Whether you're using Steam or not, here are eight easy fixes to get The Sims 4 back.

1. Repair the Game Files

If you have missing game files, Sims 4 won't launch. So, you'd better use your launcher's built-in feature to resolve the issue.

  • 1. If you're using Steam to play Sims 4, go to "Library".
  • 2. Then right click the "The Sims 4" and go to "Properties".
  • 3. Head to "Installed Files" and then click "Verify integrity of game files".
Repair The Game Files

2. Run Sims 4 as Administrator

Since some systems may block the game from starting without proper permissions, you can run it as an administrator.

  • 1. Right-click the Sims 4 shortcut or its file.
  • 2. Choose "Run as administrator" from the menu.
  • 3. Then, try opening the game again.
Run As Administrator

3. Remove or Disable Mods/CC

Outdated modes can conflict with updates of the game, resulting in Sims 4 not launching. You can test out the game without them to identify the issue.

  • 1. Head to "Documents". Then click "Electronic Arts", "The Sims 4" and then select "Mods".
  • 2. Move the folder to your desktop, then launch the game without it.

4. Delete the Game Cache

Corrupted cache data can cause launch failures. Eliminating them from the game can refresh the loading process.

  • 1. Open "Documents", then click "Electronic Arts" and "The Sims 4".
  • 2. Here, delete the "localthumbcache.package" and other cache folders.
  • 3. Later, restart your computer.
Delete The Game Cache

5. Update Graphic Driver

Incompatible graphic drivers can prevent The Sims 4 from launching. Updating drivers can ensure compatibility.

  • 1. First, determine your GPU.
  • 2. After that, visit its official website on your browser and download the latest driver.
  • 3. Install the update and restart your computer.

6. Disable Overlays

If programs like Discord, antivirus software, or an overlay are running at the same time as the game, they may all interfere with it, causing the Sims 4 not to launch or perform properly. Disabling them prevents interference.

  • 1. Open the "Task Manager" then close all unnecessary apps and turn off overlays.
  • 2. You can also temporarily disable antivirus, then try to launch the game.
Disable Overlays

7. Launch It in Window Mode

The Sims 4 not launching process may be due to resolution or display issues. Forcing it into windowed mode may help it to start correctly.

  • 1. Right-click the game app, then select "Properties".
  • 2. From the "Target" field, add "-windowed" or "w", then click "Apply" and then "OK".
  • 3. Launch the game now.
Launch it In Window Mode

8. Reinstall the Game

If everything else fails, a clean reinstallation of The Sims 4 game may help resolve deep-rooted issues. But before you do so, don't forget to back up your saves.

  • 1. Go to "Documents", then "Electronic Arts", to "The Sims 4," and go to the "saves" folder.
  • 2. Next, uninstall the game from your launcher.
  • 3. Then, reinstall it and restore your save files.

Repair Damaged and Unplayable Game Videos from Sims 4

Finally resolved Sims 4 not launching problem and got back to your game? If your recorded Sims 4 gameplay is having problems this time, such as lagging, freezing, or not playing at all, a reliable solution is to use AnyRec Video Repair. This powerful yet friendly software is designed to restore broken, corrupted, or glitched game footage that cannot be appropriately played in any media player. It also utilizes advanced algorithms that carefully and in-depth analyze and fix video issues without any loss of quality. And best of all, regardless of your skill level, this excellent tool is a perfect fit for everyone looking to restore their damaged Sims 4 video recordings caused during recording, downloading, or transferring the file.

AnyRec Video Repair Package
AnyRec Video Repair

Fix damaged and unplayable Sims 4 videos while keeping quality intact.

Work very well with HD, 4K, and ultra-high resolution gameplay video up to 16K.

Allow you to fix video in formats like MP4, MOV, MKV, AVI, and so on.

Preview the repaired gameplay footage first before finalizing it.

Free DownloadFor Windows

Secure Download

Free DownloadFor macOS

Secure Download

Step 1.Open AnyRec Video Repair on your computer. On the main screen, click the "Add" button to add your corrupted Sims 4 gameplay video and a similar, working sample video to the left pane.

Import Videos

Step 2.Click the "Repair" button to start fixing the damaged file. Once completed, use the "Preview" option to double-check if the video now plays smoothly.

Preview

Step 3.If the video looks good, verify the resolution, bitrate, and other details below. Then, click the "save" button to store your fully repaired Sims 4 gameplay video.

Save

Conclusion

When The Sims 4 not launching issue happens again, you now have eight fixes to try that can help you identify and resolve the problem! From clearing the cache and running it as an administrator to working your way to more complex steps, you can get back to your game right away! And if you have managers to get the game running, but found your Sims 4 gameplay recordings unplayable, use AnyRec Video Repair! This easy-to-use tool can restore corrupted game footage with just a few clicks, ideal for saving those precious gameplay moments with excellent quality.

Free DownloadFor Windows

Secure Download

Free DownloadFor macOS

Secure Download

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