InThe Sims 4, the Writing skill serves as a vital avenue for creative expression for Sims and more predominantly for income generation alongside some other perks, allowing Sims to craft everything from novels to screenplays and earn royalties from their published works. With the introduction of theLife & Deathexpansion pack, writing takes on new significance, particularly through thenew aspiration, Ghost Historian, which requires Sims to delve into the supernatural. One of the key milestones for this aspiration involves writing a Horror Book inthe Sims 4.
It’s worth noting that this genre of book is limited toLife & Deathexpansion pack as of now, however the way of writing it is surprisingly not so different from other Genres. Here’s how to do it, as the game doesn’t particularly describe how to do so.
How to Unlock Horror Genre Book in the Sims 4
To unlock the Horror genre in The Sims 4, players need to elevate their Writing Skill to level 7. Interestingly, while the skill description doesn’t explicitly state that this genre becomes available upon reaching this level, it is indeed a requirement, unlike other genres that may provide clearer indicators upon levelling up. Once players have achieved this milestone, they can easily access the Horror genre by navigating to the computer, selecting the “Write” option, and then choosing “Write Genre Book” from the pie menu, where Horror will now be included as an option. This allows Sims to progress through the Ghost Historian aspiration.
The Horror genre will automatically unlock for all Sims once they reach Writing level 7, regardless of their progress in the Ghost Historian aspiration. However, since the final milestones for this aspiration requires Sims to write three Horror books and earn a total of 2,000 Simoleons in royalties, it’s highly advisable for players to focus on this aspiration if they plan to complete it eventually. Although completing the Horror book requirement is only necessary for the last milestone, the earlier goals—such as improving Writing and Thanatology skills and befriending ghosts—are relatively straightforward. Therefore, players should consider prioritizing the Ghost Historian aspiration to streamline their progress and make the most of their Sims’ writing endeavors - especially if they’ve already completed Bestselling Author aspiration.
Tips for Reaching Level 7 in Writing Quickly
Boosting the Writing skill efficiently inThe Sims 4benefits greatly fromleveraging the Inspired moodlet, reward traits, and various needs-related strategies. The Inspired moodlet increases skill gain in creative activities, including writing, so it’s helpful to start writing sessions with this boost. To get Sims inspired, try actions like the Read for Reference on the computer or viewing inspiring art. You can even place inspiring objects like paintings around their writing area to maintain the moodlet throughout the skill-building session. Additionally, using a high-quality computer helps prevent interruptions due to low fun or chances of breaking while writing.
In the Rewards Store, purchasing traits likeMorning SimorNight Owlgives a skill gain boost during specific hours, whileFast Learnerprovides an all-around increase in skill-building speed, especially beneficial for intensive skills like Writing. For players who want their Sims to focus on writing as much as possible without interruptions,Needs No Onehelps keep social needs low-impact, whileSteel Bladderreduces bathroom breaks.