There are several ways to install "The Sims 3" game on your computer. If you have the installation DVD, you can install it using the disc. Alternatively, you can use Origin's digital distribution program. This will allow you to download all the game files, so you don't have to insert the disc every time you want to play. You will also be able to install the game using Steam, although in that case you will have to buy it on this platform.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Using the DVD
Step 1. Insert the disc into the DVD drive
Make sure you insert the disc into a drive that can read DVDs. CD drives cannot read the installation disc.
Step 2. Run the installer
Typically, the computer automatically prompts you to start the installation as soon as the disc is inserted. If you are not prompted to start the installation, open the "Computer / My Computer / This PC" window and double click on the game DVD.
If you are using a Mac, double-click on the game disc on the desktop and then double-click on the installer that appears in the new window
Step 3. Enter the game key
After selecting the language, you will be prompted to enter the registration code. You should be able to find it on the "The Sims 3" DVD case. The installation cannot be performed without a valid key.
Step 4. Select the "Typical" installation
The game will then be installed in the default directory. This configuration is recommended for most users.
Step 5. Wait for the game to install
Once the installation has started, you simply have to wait for it to finish. The time required varies depending on the speed of the computer.
Step 6. Update the game
There will likely be updates for "The Sims 3" aimed at substantially improving the performance and stability of the game, but also offering new features. You can search for and download updates via the launcher that appears when you start the game.
Method 2 of 3: Using Origin
Step 1. Download and install Origin
Origin is EA's platform dedicated to digital distribution. You can use it to buy, download, install and play "The Sims 3" and all expansions. You can download the Origin installer from origin.com/download. This platform is available for PC and Mac.
Step 2. Create an account on Origin
You will need an account to start using Origin. Already have an EA profile? You can use it to log in. If not, you can create it for free when you start Origin.
Step 3. Add the game to your account
You can use Origin to buy "The Sims 3" or use the physical version code, so you don't need the disc. If you already own the game disc or purchased it online on another site, you can add the registration key to your Origin account.
- Click on the Origin menu and select "Register Product Code". If you are using a Mac, click on the "Games" menu instead of "Origin".
- Enter the key printed on the game case or that you received in the confirmation email.
Step 4. Download "The Sims 3"
The game download typically starts as soon as it is added to Origin. If it doesn't, look for it in the "My games" list. Click on "The Sims 3" and then on the "Download" button that appears next. The duration of the download depends on the speed of the connection.
Origin will keep your copy of "The Sims 3" up to date by automatically downloading the latest patches
Method 3 of 3: Using Steam
Step 1. Download and install Steam
Steam is another very popular digital distribution platform. Several EA games are available on it, including "The Sims 3" and all its expansions. Steam can be downloaded from steampowered.com.
- The Mac version of "The Sims 3" is not available on Steam.
- It is not possible to redeem the "The Sims 3" product key to activate it on Steam. This platform only works with copies of the game that have been bought on it.
Step 2. Create a Steam account
You will need a free Steam account to log into the platform. You can create one on the login screen that appears when you first open Steam.
Step 3. Buy "The Sims 3"
To install the game with Steam you need to buy it in the "Steam Store" or redeem a platform specific key obtained on another site. To purchase the game, search for "The Sims 3" on the Store page and then select it from the search results. You will need a valid credit card or PayPal account to purchase games on Steam.
If you intend to redeem a Steam key for "The Sims 3", click on the "Add a game" option in the lower left corner. Select "Activate a Product on Steam" and then enter the game key. This will add it to your library
Step 4. Install the game
The platform generally prompts you to install the game as soon as it is purchased or added to the library. If you decline the invitation or have purchased the game for some time and want to install it now, open the "Library" tab and search for "The Sims 3" in the games list. Click on it with the right mouse button and select "Install Game". The game files will be downloaded and installed automatically.
