Difference between revisions of "MTS2:Creator Guidelines/Sims 3 Lots and Houses"

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=Sims 3 Lots and Houses=
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=Sims 3 Lot Upload Guidelines=
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When uploading a lot for The Sims 3 to Mod The Sims, we have some basic requirements to ensure that your upload is good, shown well, and has the correct info and files needed for people to use it in their games. This allows both moderators to check your uploads for quality, and for downloaders to see if your item is something they want to add to their games.
  
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==Introduction==
 
  
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So you want to share your lot that you've slaved over building and decorating for all to bask in your greatness? It's easy to do as long as you comply with all the necessary requirements. The less guesswork, the better! Please take the time to read through these guidelines as some key items have changed and may affect your upload. Pay close attention to what is required, and your upload will spend less time in the moderation queue and the more likely it is to get approved. Thanks!
 
  
 
==Quality==
 
==Quality==
  
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===Uniqueness/Effort===
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{| class="nicetable" style="width:100%"
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|-
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|
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* '''Realism:''' Lots based on an actual building type or specific building should look like what it supposed to resemble (for example a castle should not just be a huge building with stone walls, but should look like an actual castle).  Lots not intended to be realistic can be more fanciful, but should still have some logic to them, and be aesthetically pleasing.
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* '''Architecture:''' The way the lot is built should be unique, interesting, and more than just a basic box with four walls and a roof.
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* '''Playability:''' The layout of the lot should make sense and allow sims to get around easily, with access to all the items they would want to interact with.
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* '''Roofing:''' The roof pieces should connect each other nicely, and not leave gaps or connect at odd angles.  The roof should fit the structure, look nice, and not just be an auto-roof (or resemble one).
 +
* '''Furnishing/decoration:''' While we strongly encourage you to give lots at least basic furnishings (bed, toilet, shower, sink, fridge, lighting, etc.), it is not absolutely required to upload to MTS.  Your lot can be an empty "shell" but should have a fully built structure, wall and floor coverings, and landscaping.
 +
* '''Landscaping:''' Your lot should have nice landscaping that fits the overall style, with most styles of lots having at least some well-placed plants and terrain paint, while fancier lots should have more.
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* '''Create-a-Style:''' Get creative with and explore the options available with the CAST tool.  Just make sure your finished CASTing works together with your lot's style, makes some sort of sense, and doesn't require sunglasses to view.  Generally this should mean:
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**Use textures that look appropriate on surfaces.  For example, some of the EA stone textures look great applied to a couch when the colours are tweaked to look like velvet.  So you shouldn't feel too constrained by the categories. But most houses probably don't need a leopard print toilet or a wicker bathtub.
 +
**Your textures shouldn't be too bright/saturated, or too dark.  Try to use full-saturation colours sparingly, and if you're making something black, you usually shouldn't use 100% black as it just looks like a "hole" without any dimension to it.  Try using dark grey instead.
 +
**Avoid using some of the EA stone presets or very busy patterns in large areas, as they look very "repeaty" and can create an overwhelming effect.
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**Try to use harmonious colours that work with the lot's style.  Look at real-life decorating sites or magazines for inspiration
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* '''Flat lot:''' Whenever possible, lots should be flat around the edges, so they can be placed easily in peoples' games.  If a lot is not flat, there should be a good reason for it (like a beach or a house built into a hillside).  Make sure to tell people that the lot isn't flat, if you do this.
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* '''Other content:''' If you have made content for your lot, you must also provide additional pictures and/or information for your custom content (like polygon counts if you've made a mesh).  Make sure you see check the appropriate category from the [[MTS2:Creator_Guidelines|Creator Guidelines]] to see what we require.  Tip: Consider uploading content you have made separately first, to the appropriate section (buy mode, walls and floors, etc.) so people looking for that type of content can more easily find it, and so you can show it off better with its own separate pics and info.  Then you can just link it as credit to yourself when uploading your lot. 
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|}
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{| class="nicetable collapsible collapsed" style="width:100%"
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|-
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! style="text-align:left" | Quality-Related Tips
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|-
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|
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* If you're not sure whether your lot is ready for uploading, use the [http://www.modthesims.info/forumdisplay.php?f=612 Creator Feedback Forum] for guidance.
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* You can always explore our [http://simswiki.info/wiki.php?title=Tutorials:TS3_Building_Tutorials Tutorials section] for ideas and learning techniques for creating your lot.
 +
* If you are struggling with or have questions about technical aspects of building, you can post in [http://www.modthesims.info/forumdisplay.php?f=594 Building forum].
 +
* Using Create a style-tool in TS3 can have a tremendous effect on how your lot will look. Please explore the possibilities of this tool. Selecting the patterns and colors yourself instead of using EA-made presets creates much more unique, and often better looking results. A small tutorial can be found [http://www.modthesims.info/showthread.php?t=484119 here].
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|}
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<br style="clear:both" />
  
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Is your lot special, unique, and different?  Or is it a box that anyone could build in five minutes?
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==Files==
  
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This is probably the hardest one to quantify, but it's one of the most important aspects: is your lot interesting enough for others to be worth the effort of uploading, hosting, downloading, and installing it? Most good creators spend hours upon hours even on simple creations. Not every lot has to be an elaborate castle, but we expect you to not just quickly slap together something and expect it to get accepted. We will not accept lots without wall covering or flooring. Try to put some effort into what you create, and it will not only show through in the quality, it will also be a lot more fun to make!
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{| class="nicetable" style="width:100%"
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|-
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! style="text-align:left" | Packaging your lot
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|-
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|
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[[Image:TS3-LotShare.jpg|right|300px]]
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Once you have finished building your lot in the game, you will need to save, then Edit Town. You may upload either a Sims3Pack or a package file.  
  
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'''Sims3Packs'''
  
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===Aesthetics===
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*Select your lot and click the Share button on the lot panel.
  
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Does your lot look nice?  Does it have a good flow to it?  Is the way it's laid out attractive, interesting, and enjoyable to look at? Does it make sense as a style?  It doesn't have to be perfectly realistic, but it shouldn't be fugly.
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*Enter the lot name and description on the next screen, and then click the checkmark. When it's done, you'll have a new .sims3pack file.
  
 +
[[Image:TS3-ExportedLot.jpg|right|300px]]
  
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===Playability===
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*Lots are saved to the Exports folder: My Documents\Electronic Arts\The Sims 3\Exports
  
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Is your lot going to be good to play with?  Does it have a good layout that won't have sims stomping and complaining every few seconds?  Strive to make lots that are not only nice to look at, but actually good to play with.  Exceptions to this are lots that are not meant to be played with - mazes, lots designed primarily as decoration for neighborhoods, and movie or picture sets.
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'''Package Files'''
  
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Remember, in TS3 houses can be purchased furnished or unfurnished, so you should furnish your houses when you upload them.
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*Select your lot and click 'Edit Details' to give your lot a name and description.  
  
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<blockquote>
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*Click the Save Copy to Library button on the lot panel.
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'''Tips:'''
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</blockquote>
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<blockquote>
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[[Image:RightArrow.gif]] Remember that while a lot may look big and grand, it may be extremely frustrating to players that sims spend two sim hours hiking from the front door to the kitchen just to make a sandwich.
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</blockquote>
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<blockquote>
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[[Image:RightArrow.gif]] Even in very small houses you should try to avoid making corridors only one tile wide - sims will get stuck all too easily.  Make sure that objects your sims will need are actually useable: double beds for example must be accessible from both sides - sims can't climb over each other.  
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</blockquote>
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 +
*Lots are saved to the Library folder: My Documents\Electronic Arts\The Sims 3\Library
  
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===Realism===
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*Files will be given a name like ebf_0x123456789abcdefg. Right click and rename to something with a unique, identifying name, like username_RedBrickVictorian
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|-
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! style="text-align:left" | Custom content in the sims3pack
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|-
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|
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* '''Did you use custom content when making the lot?'''
  
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Does your lot look like what it's supposed to look like? Not all lots have to be realistic, and fanciful ones certainly shouldn't look like your everyday house, but if your lot is based on a real building or real type of building, it should look like what it's supposed to look like.
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:If the answer to that question is no, great! It will be much easier to fill out the required information for your lot.  If you did use custom content, then you need to consider the following:
  
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For example, a castle should not just be a huge building with stone walls, but should look like an actual castle with appropriate windows, roofing, wall coverings, landscaping, etc.  You can look up pictures of the type of lot you're trying to build on Google Image Search for some good ideas.
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* '''Should I share my lot with no custom content in it?''' <br style="clear:both" />
  
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: There are two file types of custom content: .package files, and .sims3pack files. Package files never include themselves in your lot file, but sims3packs may be included (though not always). If you have used sims3pack content, you may need to clean your lot file in following cases, so that the files are not actually included:
 +
* '''Did you use a lot of sims3pack content?''' Consider cleaning your sims3pack with CUSTARD to reduce the file size.
 +
* '''Do the creators of the sims3pack content allow redistribution of their content?''' If their policy says no, you must remove their content from your .sims3pack file with CUSTARD.
  
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===Roofing===
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Make sure to read the Other section in the bottom of this page, so you'll know what custom content you can and can't use when uploading a lot to MTS (included or not).
  
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Though roofing is usually one of the more difficult parts of building, your roof should look right for the lot, and pleasing to the eye.  Sometimes you may have to redesign part of a lot, or choose a different type of roof to make a roof that looks right. 
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|-
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<blockquote>
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! style="text-align:left" | Remove Custom Content with CUSTARD
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'''Tips:'''
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|-
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</blockquote>
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|style="color:#000"|
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<blockquote>
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[[Image:Custard01.jpg|right|300px]]
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[[Image:RightArrow.gif]] Don't just use the autoroof tool - actually work on designing your own roofs using the different roof tools.  This usually gives you a much better result.
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[[Image:Custard02.jpg|right|300px]]
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</blockquote>
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<blockquote>
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[[Image:RightArrow.gif]] Remember to use the roof angle tool to adjust your roofs to an appropriate angle for your building.  Lower angle roofs often look better than higher angle ones, especially on smaller structures.
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</blockquote>
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* Download and install [http://www.modthesims.info/showthread.php?t=390235 CUSTARD]
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* Open your .sims3pack in CUSTARD
 +
* Untick any custom content files you don't want to include
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* File > Save As and save your file with a new name.
  
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===Landscaping===
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Once you have cleaned out your file, you must create a "shopping list" for the content. This means finding the download pages for all the items and linking to them in your upload description.  See the Information section for how to do that.
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|}
  
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All lots should have some type of landscaping - and even cheap starters or grungy industrial lots will look a lot better if you add a tree or shrub and apply a little terrain paint in the right places. 
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{{Guidelines-InfoFiles-ZipRar7z}}
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<blockquote>
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'''Tips:'''
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</blockquote>
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<blockquote>
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[[Image:RightArrow.gif]] Terrain paint doesn't cost anything in Build Mode, and the standard Maxis terrain paints can look very nice - try painting a bit of soil underneath trees and shrubs, dirt around the house and where sims will walk, a garden path, etc...  You'll be surprised what a difference it makes. 
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</blockquote>
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<blockquote>
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[[Image:RightArrow.gif]] Don't randomly plunk down a tree or two just to have some landscaping: put some thought and effort into your placement..  Look at some real gardens or landscaping websites for ideas.
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</blockquote>
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==Information==
  
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==Screenshots==
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{{Template:Guidelines-InfoFiles-TitleDescription}}
  
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People want to see what they're downloading! Your screenshots sell your upload - if people don't like the look of your screenshots, they're not going to download - and if your screenshots are too bad, you won't get your upload approved.
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{| class="nicetable" style="width:100%"
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|-
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! style="text-align:left" | Required information
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|-
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|
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* '''Lot size:''' The lot's size, for example 20x30
 +
* '''Lot price:''' The price to purchase the lot - both the unfurnished and furnished prices
 +
* '''Included custom content:''' List custom content that has been included within the lot file or the archive, with links to the download page. Items that should be listed as included are:
 +
** Sims3pack custom content items that are part of your sims3pack lot file (not cleaned out with CUSTARD)
 +
** Package files or sims3pack files you have manually added to the archive alongside your sims3pack lot file (usually content you yourself have made)
 +
* '''Required, but not included custom content:''' List custom content you have used on the lot, but not included within the lot file or the archive, with links to the download page.  This is a "shopping list" for your downloaders and will include:
 +
** Sims3pack format content you have cleaned from your lot file using CUSTARD
 +
** Package format content that you have used on your lot.
  
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'''All of the screenshot images below can be clicked for larger versions.''' You wouldn't want to upload them with as small of pics as are displaying here anyway - we're just using smaller pics so this thread loads quickly and is easy to read.
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Every item used on your lot - included or not - must have a link and credit to the creator, and if the item is not included, your link must go directly to the place where the item can be downloaded (not just the main site or the creator's profile).  This should look something like: "Wood Pattern 3 by Armiel: <nowiki>http://www.modthesims.info/download.php?t=511126</nowiki>" - what the item is, the creator's name, and a direct link to where the item can be downloaded.
  
 +
If you made your lot without CC, you of course don't need to list any. A note: "No CC" or "Made without custom content" is nice to have, but not mandatory.
 +
|}
  
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===Screenshot Basics===
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{| class="nicetable" style="width:100%"
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|-
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! style="text-align:left" | Game version and required EPs/SPs
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|-
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|style="color:#000"|
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In TS3 lots can be installed regardless of the expansions (EPs) or stuff packs (SPs) it was built with, as long as the downloader has the same patch version or greater. EP/SP specific content will just leave empty spaces.  If you've used a considerable amount of content from an EP/SP, or the items used are essential to the look of the lot, you must list it as being required.
  
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You need to make sure you have nice big, clear pictures that show off what you've made.  They can't be too blurry or pixellated, and you need to know how to use the game's camera controls properly, so make sure you review the information on that link thoroughly before continuing.
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Please list the base game version that the lot was built with.  This will look something like '''1.63''' - 1-dot-something.  For information, see: [http://www.modthesims.info/wiki.php?title=Game_Help:TS3_Patching_Find_Gameversion Finding Game Version]
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<blockquote>
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'''Tip:'''
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</blockquote>
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<blockquote>
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[[Image:RightArrow.gif]] For instructions on:
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* Taking large, clear pictures (bigger than the game will allow)
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Tip: If you would like to create lots which require only the expansion packs actually for the build features you're using, you can use [http://www.modthesims.info/d/406814 johna's AnyGameStarter].
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* Changing your in-game settings for best graphics quality
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|}
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* Camera controls
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<br style="clear:both" />
  
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See: [[MTS2:Creator Guidelines/Screenshot Basics|Screenshot Basics]]
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==Screenshots==
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</blockquote>
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<br>
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{| class="nicetable" style="width:100%"
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|-
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! style="text-align:left" | You'll need to include at least:
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|-
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|
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* '''Front view:''' A picture of the front of your lot with all levels showing, from a low enough angle that it shows the structure well.
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* '''Floorplans:''' An overhead picture of each floor.
  
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===Big Enough===
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If your lot is a '''makeover of a pre-built EA lot''', we also need comparison pictures from the original unmodified version:
 +
* '''Front view:''' A picture of the front of your lot with all levels showing, from a low enough angle that it shows the structure well.
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* '''Floorplans:''' An overhead picture of each floor.
  
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Your pics should be large enough to see the detail of what you've made.
 
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<blockquote>
 
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'''Tips:'''
 
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</blockquote>
 
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<blockquote>
 
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[[Image:RightArrow.gif]] MTS2 allows images up to 1280x1024 pixels and 195 kilobytes so you should be able to upload nice big pictures.  See the information above under "Screenshot Basics" for info on taking larger pics than the game will normally allow.
 
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</blockquote>
 
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<blockquote>
 
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[[Image:RightArrow.gif]] Don't take small pics and just make them larger in your graphics program - this just gives you a blurry pic that's bigger in dimensions with no additional detail.
 
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</blockquote>
 
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<br>
 
  
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===Required Screenshots===
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{{Guidelines-ScreenshotsBigClearEtc}}
  
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We require certain screenshots for lot uploads - if you do not include these screenshots, your lot will not be approved!
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Please remember, for your required pictures:
  
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====1. Exterior Shot====
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* '''As packaged:''' Your pictures should show your lot as you have packaged it, so that what downloaders see is what they'll actually get, or need to download, for the lot to look the same in their game.
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|}
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{| class="nicetable" style="width:100%"
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|-
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! style="text-align:left" | Nice to have, but not mandatory:
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|-
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|
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* '''Unobstructed views:'''  If your lot has dense foliage blocking the view of the house.
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* '''Comparison pictures:''' If your lot is based on a real building.
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* '''Back picture:''' Showing the lot from the rear.
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* '''Other pictures:''' Showing the rooms, landscaping, etc. from a sim's eye view, to give an idea of the feel of the lot.
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|}
  
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[[Image:TS3-Exterior01.jpg|right|300x300px]]Show the entire lot from the outside as it is seen from the street.  Make sure you show it with all levels visible, and the roof on.
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{{Guidelines-Screenshots-Tips}}
 
<br style="clear:both" />
 
<br style="clear:both" />
  
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====2. Interior Floor Plans====
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==Other==
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[[Image:TS3-FloorPlans01.jpg|right|300x300px]]Show a basic layout or floor plan of the lot, ensuring that for each building on it, the entire level is displayed.  (This pic needs to present the complete layout and not just a collage of individual rooms.)  This is best accomplished with an overhead shot.  If you want, you can label the rooms on your floorplan so that it's obvious what function they have.
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Make sure that you display the floor plan for each playable level on your lot if there is more than one accessible floor.
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<br style="clear:both" />
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====3. Comparison Picture====
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If your lot is based on a real building (for example, a particular castle, a particular chain of supermarket, a house from a movie), then please include a comparison picture of the real building.  We understand there are some major limitations in the build tools and lot sizes, so it may not be possible to reproduce a building exactly, but it should bear a close resemblance as best as can be achieved with the tools available.
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===Screenshots as Packaged===
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Please make sure your screenshots show your lot as you have packaged it.  Downloaders want to see what they're actually getting.  You may show an additional shot or two of the lot fully furnished if you have uploaded it unfurnished, but then you need to mention that those are not how the lot is packaged, and include a list of the items you show in your furnished pictures so people may get those items if they like.  Make sure not to include pay content in any of your screenshots or in your packaged lot.
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===No Over-Photoshopping===
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While it can be tempting to get artistic with your screenshots in Photoshop, please don't. Screenshots need to be just as things look in the game, with no extra filtering such as contrast, sharpen, blur, saturation, etc. Also, please don't too crazy when it comes to adding text - make sure your text is in blank areas of the picture or covers an absolute minimum of your creation. Remember, you're showing off what you've made for the game, not your skill in Photoshopping your pics.
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===Enough Light===
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Your main screenshots should always be daytime screenshots, as they make it much easier to see what your lot looks like.  We will only accept nighttime screenshots if they are sufficiently light enough to see your lot clearly, and they should only be used as optional, extra screenshots.  Make sure your lights are turned on, and your game options are turned up enough that light makes a difference.
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===Distance===
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Please take your screenshots so that your lot fills the screen, not zoomed out too far or zoomed in too close.  Screenshots taken on the lot should show the whole lot, zoomed in so that the lot is centered in your view.  You shouldn't have a lot of blank space on the sides, or cut off the edges of the lot in your picture.
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===Centered===
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Make sure that your building is the main focus of your screenshots, and adjust your camera angle so that the lot is centered and fills the whole image.  Don't take your pictures at an angle that shows something irrelevant like the sky, the street, or the house next door, while cutting off your lot.
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===Angle===
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When taking your main front view picture, drop down to a low level with the camera, so that you are taking your pictures basically from a sim's perspective.  Many beginners make the mistake of taking pictures from high above the lot, from the normal perspective one would have as a player.  This gives mostly a picture of the roof and not the lot itself, and really doesn't show off the lot very well.
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===No Gridlines or User Interface===
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When taking your screenshots, you should take them in Cameraman Mode (using the TAB key) so that you don't get the User Interface (the blue control panel) in your shots.  You also have better control of the camera in Cameraman Mode.
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In TS3, you will have to move in a sim to the lot to take your pictures in Cameraman Mode, and without the gridlines.  While this is a bit of a hassle, the camera controls (and resulting pictures) are MUCH better that way.
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===Detail Pictures===
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[[Image:TS3-DetailPic02.jpg|right|300x300px]]Detail pictures are not required for your upload to be approved, but they can show downloaders what your lot will look like from a sim's perspective.
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==Packaging Your Lot==
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Once you have finished building your lot in the game, you will need to save it and then Edit Town to return to the neighborhood.  From there, select your lot, and click the Share button on the lot panel.
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[[Image:TS3-LotShare.jpg|center]]<br>
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Enter the lot name and description on the next screen, and then click the checkmark.  When it's done, you'll have a new .sims3pack file on your computer...
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[[Image:TS3-ExportedLot.jpg|center]]<br>
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Lots are saved to the Exports folder, which is located in My Documents\Electronic Arts\The Sims 3\Exports
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==Right Info and Right Files==
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Once you have your creation made and screenshots taken, you need to make sure you have all the fiddly bits in order when uploading.
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<br>
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===ZIP or RAR===
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You will need to put your .sims3pack file(s) (as well as any additional .package files for custom content that did not package with the lot) into a RAR or ZIP file to upload here. Please see [[MTS2:Creator_Guidelines/RAR_or_ZIP_Your_Custom_Content|here]] for instructions on doing so.  Please do not include both a ZIP and RAR with the same contents - just choose one.
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If you are uploading multiple lots on a single thread, please package these separately, one ZIP or RAR file for each lot.  This makes it easier for people downloading who may only want certain lots and not everything you've uploaded.
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Please do not double-compress your files - you should not have a ZIP inside a ZIP or a RAR inside a RAR.  This does not compress the files any more and just makes an extra step for downloaders.
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<br>
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===Upload in Sets===
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If you have created several items in a set, or similar items in the same sort of theme at the same time, please upload these together in a single set, all on one thread (instead of all separately, one by one, on different threads).  This is easier for everyone: on our upload moderators, as they only have one thread to review rather than several... on you, as submitting a single thread is much quicker and easier than several... and on downloaders, as they can get everything they want all in one place rather than having to hunt around.
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====Multi-Post Lot Uploads====
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In the case of lots, because of the many screenshots required for particular lots, if you are doing a large set of lots all on one thread, it may be easier to create a thread that has no actual lot downloads in the first post, and then has the downloads further on in the thread.  For an example, see [http://www.modthesims2.com/member/showthread.php?t=280424 this upload by plasticbox]. 
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[[Image:RightArrow.gif]] If you would like to do a thread that way, then create a new thread in the [http://www.modthesims2.com/forumdisplay.php?f=492 Creator Issues] forum.  Only you and moderators will be able to see your thread in that forum.  Use the first post for general information.  Be sure to include at least 1 screenshot as well as one actual attached file (you can put a readme.txt file in a zip or rar for this attached file) on the first post so that your thread will show up properly on your profile once it is finished.
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[[Image:RightArrow.gif]] When you have finished organizing your thread and you are ready to have it go into the upload queue, contact any moderator listed at the bottom of the Creator Issues forum and ask them to please move your download into the upload queue for moderation.  There it will go through normal moderation, and can be approved, rejected, or asked for required changes.
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===Lot Picture as Main Thumbnail===
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If you have based your lot off a real house or house plan, please choose an actual picture of the house you've built (i.e. an in-game picture) as your default thumbnail.  Don't use a photo or drawing of the original lot – people want to see at a glance what they'll get in-game, not the picture you used as inspiration. Also, please edit the thumbnail as little as possible – a border or a title is fine, but a collage with real photos or drowning the picture in photoshop effects are not.
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===Good Title===
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You'll need a good title for your upload – something descriptive, like "Cozy Tudor Cottage" or "Ultra-Modern Mini-Mansion", is good.  Something non-descriptive like "My First Upload!" or "Nice house" is not.
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===Good Description===
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You'll need to write up a little basic description of what your upload is... you don't have to get too fancy, but you do need to write something to get people interested. 
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For instance, "This 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath split-level Tudor cottage will be perfect for a small family home with room for expansion.  It features a small garden, with room for adding a garage if you choose."  Something like, "This is my first upload... I don't know what to put here..." really doesn't make it sound like you've put any effort into it - and will reflect poorly on your creation. 
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You don't have to write a novel, just something that makes it sound like it's worth taking a closer look at.
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===Lot Size===
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Please include the lot size in your upload description.  You can find this on the lot info panel under Edit Town.  While lots can be moved to larger plots, they cannot be moved to smaller ones, so this is important.
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===Lot Price===
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{{Guidelines-NotAllowed}}
  
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Please include the lot price in your upload description - both the furnished and unfurnished.  You'll see this at the top left of the screen when in build mode.
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{| class="nicetable" style="width:100%"
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! style="text-align:left" | Tips:
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* If your upload is rejected or marked as changes required and you're not sure why, ask in [http://www.modthesims.info/forumdisplay.php?f=492 Creator Issues].
  
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* If you're not sure whether your lots are ready for uploading, use the [http://www.modthesims.info/forumdisplay.php?f=473 Creator Feedback Forum] to get feedback on it.
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==Additional Stuff==
 
  
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* If your upload is rejected or marked as changes required and you're not sure why, ask in [http://www.modthesims2.com/forumdisplay.php?f=492 Creator Issues].
 
  
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* If you're not sure whether your lot is ready for uploading, use the [http://www.modthesims2.com/forumdisplay.php?f=473 Creator Feedback Forum] to get feedback on it.
 
  
  
 
[[Category:MTS2 Creator Guidelines]]
 
[[Category:MTS2 Creator Guidelines]]
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[[Category:The Sims 3]]
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[[Category:Sims 3]]

Latest revision as of 18:37, 12 September 2017

Contents

[edit] Sims 3 Lot Upload Guidelines

When uploading a lot for The Sims 3 to Mod The Sims, we have some basic requirements to ensure that your upload is good, shown well, and has the correct info and files needed for people to use it in their games. This allows both moderators to check your uploads for quality, and for downloaders to see if your item is something they want to add to their games.


[edit] Quality

  • Realism: Lots based on an actual building type or specific building should look like what it supposed to resemble (for example a castle should not just be a huge building with stone walls, but should look like an actual castle). Lots not intended to be realistic can be more fanciful, but should still have some logic to them, and be aesthetically pleasing.
  • Architecture: The way the lot is built should be unique, interesting, and more than just a basic box with four walls and a roof.
  • Playability: The layout of the lot should make sense and allow sims to get around easily, with access to all the items they would want to interact with.
  • Roofing: The roof pieces should connect each other nicely, and not leave gaps or connect at odd angles. The roof should fit the structure, look nice, and not just be an auto-roof (or resemble one).
  • Furnishing/decoration: While we strongly encourage you to give lots at least basic furnishings (bed, toilet, shower, sink, fridge, lighting, etc.), it is not absolutely required to upload to MTS. Your lot can be an empty "shell" but should have a fully built structure, wall and floor coverings, and landscaping.
  • Landscaping: Your lot should have nice landscaping that fits the overall style, with most styles of lots having at least some well-placed plants and terrain paint, while fancier lots should have more.
  • Create-a-Style: Get creative with and explore the options available with the CAST tool. Just make sure your finished CASTing works together with your lot's style, makes some sort of sense, and doesn't require sunglasses to view. Generally this should mean:
    • Use textures that look appropriate on surfaces. For example, some of the EA stone textures look great applied to a couch when the colours are tweaked to look like velvet. So you shouldn't feel too constrained by the categories. But most houses probably don't need a leopard print toilet or a wicker bathtub.
    • Your textures shouldn't be too bright/saturated, or too dark. Try to use full-saturation colours sparingly, and if you're making something black, you usually shouldn't use 100% black as it just looks like a "hole" without any dimension to it. Try using dark grey instead.
    • Avoid using some of the EA stone presets or very busy patterns in large areas, as they look very "repeaty" and can create an overwhelming effect.
    • Try to use harmonious colours that work with the lot's style. Look at real-life decorating sites or magazines for inspiration
  • Flat lot: Whenever possible, lots should be flat around the edges, so they can be placed easily in peoples' games. If a lot is not flat, there should be a good reason for it (like a beach or a house built into a hillside). Make sure to tell people that the lot isn't flat, if you do this.
  • Other content: If you have made content for your lot, you must also provide additional pictures and/or information for your custom content (like polygon counts if you've made a mesh). Make sure you see check the appropriate category from the Creator Guidelines to see what we require. Tip: Consider uploading content you have made separately first, to the appropriate section (buy mode, walls and floors, etc.) so people looking for that type of content can more easily find it, and so you can show it off better with its own separate pics and info. Then you can just link it as credit to yourself when uploading your lot.


[edit] Files

Packaging your lot
TS3-LotShare.jpg

Once you have finished building your lot in the game, you will need to save, then Edit Town. You may upload either a Sims3Pack or a package file.

Sims3Packs

  • Select your lot and click the Share button on the lot panel.
  • Enter the lot name and description on the next screen, and then click the checkmark. When it's done, you'll have a new .sims3pack file.
TS3-ExportedLot.jpg
  • Lots are saved to the Exports folder: My Documents\Electronic Arts\The Sims 3\Exports

Package Files

  • Select your lot and click 'Edit Details' to give your lot a name and description.
  • Click the Save Copy to Library button on the lot panel.
  • Lots are saved to the Library folder: My Documents\Electronic Arts\The Sims 3\Library
  • Files will be given a name like ebf_0x123456789abcdefg. Right click and rename to something with a unique, identifying name, like username_RedBrickVictorian
Custom content in the sims3pack
  • Did you use custom content when making the lot?
If the answer to that question is no, great! It will be much easier to fill out the required information for your lot. If you did use custom content, then you need to consider the following:
  • Should I share my lot with no custom content in it?
There are two file types of custom content: .package files, and .sims3pack files. Package files never include themselves in your lot file, but sims3packs may be included (though not always). If you have used sims3pack content, you may need to clean your lot file in following cases, so that the files are not actually included:
  • Did you use a lot of sims3pack content? Consider cleaning your sims3pack with CUSTARD to reduce the file size.
  • Do the creators of the sims3pack content allow redistribution of their content? If their policy says no, you must remove their content from your .sims3pack file with CUSTARD.

Make sure to read the Other section in the bottom of this page, so you'll know what custom content you can and can't use when uploading a lot to MTS (included or not).

Remove Custom Content with CUSTARD
Custard01.jpg
Custard02.jpg
  • Download and install CUSTARD
  • Open your .sims3pack in CUSTARD
  • Untick any custom content files you don't want to include
  • File > Save As and save your file with a new name.

Once you have cleaned out your file, you must create a "shopping list" for the content. This means finding the download pages for all the items and linking to them in your upload description. See the Information section for how to do that.

Zip, Rar, or 7z
To upload your file(s) to MTS, you will need to compress them into an archive file, which makes them smaller and allows you to include many files in one download. The archive file formats we currently accept are .zip, .rar, and .7z.

For instructions on compressing your files into an archive, please see: Creator Guidelines: Creating Archive Files.

  • Do not include multiple archives with the same contents - that is, please don't put your files in both a .zip as well as a .rar because some people only want .zip files. Choose one format.
  • Do not double-compress your files... a .rar file inside another .rar file (or any other archive inside another) doesn't compress it anymore, and it makes it so we can't see the contents without downloading, and also just makes an extra step for the people downloading.
  • The file size limit on MTS is 50 mb. If you exceed this limit you will need to split your archives. This should probably never come up except for large worlds for The Sims 3, or huge sets of smaller items.

[edit] Information

Title & Description
Give your upload a descriptive title and write a text description for your upload, describing what you're uploading. Your title and description must be in English or provide an English translation. If you are not a native English speaker, using Google Translate is okay. You can also ask for help writing your description in the Creator Feedback Forum.
Required information
  • Lot size: The lot's size, for example 20x30
  • Lot price: The price to purchase the lot - both the unfurnished and furnished prices
  • Included custom content: List custom content that has been included within the lot file or the archive, with links to the download page. Items that should be listed as included are:
    • Sims3pack custom content items that are part of your sims3pack lot file (not cleaned out with CUSTARD)
    • Package files or sims3pack files you have manually added to the archive alongside your sims3pack lot file (usually content you yourself have made)
  • Required, but not included custom content: List custom content you have used on the lot, but not included within the lot file or the archive, with links to the download page. This is a "shopping list" for your downloaders and will include:
    • Sims3pack format content you have cleaned from your lot file using CUSTARD
    • Package format content that you have used on your lot.

Every item used on your lot - included or not - must have a link and credit to the creator, and if the item is not included, your link must go directly to the place where the item can be downloaded (not just the main site or the creator's profile). This should look something like: "Wood Pattern 3 by Armiel: http://www.modthesims.info/download.php?t=511126" - what the item is, the creator's name, and a direct link to where the item can be downloaded.

If you made your lot without CC, you of course don't need to list any. A note: "No CC" or "Made without custom content" is nice to have, but not mandatory.

Game version and required EPs/SPs

In TS3 lots can be installed regardless of the expansions (EPs) or stuff packs (SPs) it was built with, as long as the downloader has the same patch version or greater. EP/SP specific content will just leave empty spaces. If you've used a considerable amount of content from an EP/SP, or the items used are essential to the look of the lot, you must list it as being required.

Please list the base game version that the lot was built with. This will look something like 1.63 - 1-dot-something. For information, see: Finding Game Version

Tip: If you would like to create lots which require only the expansion packs actually for the build features you're using, you can use johna's AnyGameStarter.


[edit] Screenshots

You'll need to include at least:
  • Front view: A picture of the front of your lot with all levels showing, from a low enough angle that it shows the structure well.
  • Floorplans: An overhead picture of each floor.

If your lot is a makeover of a pre-built EA lot, we also need comparison pictures from the original unmodified version:

  • Front view: A picture of the front of your lot with all levels showing, from a low enough angle that it shows the structure well.
  • Floorplans: An overhead picture of each floor.


Keep the following in mind for your screenshots, especially the required ones:

  • Size: 800 pixels wide by 600 pixels tall is a good size for the smallest pic you would want to upload. Your images can be up to 2560x1440 pixels, and 800 kb, so you have lots of space to work with!
  • Lighting: For most things, it's best to take pictures in an interior room with good lighting. For lots, pictures should be taken during a nice sunny day, for floorplans, take the pictures with the lights ON.
  • Clarity: Neither blurry, nor pixellated/crunchy. Do not size up small pictures to make a large one as this will blur them, and make sure not to use too much compression/too low quality when saving your images.
  • Distance: Take your pictures so that your creation fills the screen without anything cut off at top or bottom - neither zoomed in too close, nor zoomed out too far.
  • Distortion: If you resize your images, retain the aspect ratio so they don't get stretched or squashed. Take care when zooming in and out with the camera that you do not create a fisheye effect on your pictures.
  • Photoshopping: Do not apply filters like sharpen, contrast, etc. to the required pictures, as downloaders want to see what your creation will look like in their game, not your skills at using Photoshop.
  • Attached: All required images must be attached directly to the MTS upload, not just inserted using the img tag, so that even if the pics get deleted from your Photobucket (or other host), the upload on MTS is still complete.
  • Show all items: For most areas, if you are uploading a set, you must take all the required pics for each item in the set. If there is an exception, it will be noted.
  • Picture limit: You may upload up to 100 pictures for a single upload thread, so feel free to add some additional pictures just to show off your work to its best. Of course, keep it reasonable - nobody needs 50 pics to show off one sim or hair.
  • Inline pictures: Inline pictures are those that use the [img] tag to show up in with the description text. So that it doesn't take too long to load, please keep this to no more than 4 pictures done inline, unless you put them inside an [infobutton] tag. To do this, see our guide on post formatting.

Please remember, for your required pictures:

  • As packaged: Your pictures should show your lot as you have packaged it, so that what downloaders see is what they'll actually get, or need to download, for the lot to look the same in their game.
Nice to have, but not mandatory:
  • Unobstructed views: If your lot has dense foliage blocking the view of the house.
  • Comparison pictures: If your lot is based on a real building.
  • Back picture: Showing the lot from the rear.
  • Other pictures: Showing the rooms, landscaping, etc. from a sim's eye view, to give an idea of the feel of the lot.


[edit] Other

Uploads not allowed on MTS
These items are not allowed on MTS in any category.
Pay/Pirated Content

Everything required or recommended for an upload must be freely available, without having to pay.

  • No uploads requiring pay content: We do not host content (for example, recolours of a pay hair or object mesh) that absolutely require pay content to function in-game.
  • No optional pay, pirated, or stolen content: Even for optional or recommended content not absolutely required for the creation to work (for example, hair on a sim or a couch on a lot), this means:
    • No content you must pay for. This means you cannot use items that are pay, donation, subscriber only, "special gift", etc. type content, anything accessible only when you pay money or subscribe.
    • No content from sites that are repositories of unmodified content when it is still available from the original creator, whether these items are pay or free (no Booty or Simscave, torrents, sites full of stolen content or similar, but the Graveyard and sites that offer recolours or modifications with the mesh are okay).
    • No EA content simply converted to base game use with no other changes.
    • No pirated EA Store content. EA Store content, linked to the legitimate EA Store, is okay though. TS2 store content may be included, with proper credit, since the store is no longer available.
Other content not allowed
  • Items that belong on the adult site: No content posted on MTS can have visible nudity, sexual content, or adult content, and instead must be posted on our adult site, Sexy Sims. This means on MTS, you may not post:
    • Content that contains nudity, which we define as exposing the female nipples, or the butt crack/genitals of either gender, including semi-transparent stuff like a sheer bra. Items that are merely "sexy" like skimpy miniskirts or string bikinis are fine on MTS. Transsexual/transgender items are also not considered adult content unless they contain nudity.
    • Skintones containing genital details - female nipples are okay on MTS but see below regarding screenshots.
    • Images of skintones with uncensored female nipples. Please blur or cover the nipples, butt crack, and genital area when taking screenshots of your skintones.
    • Fine art uploads containing visible nudity.
    • Items with specifically sexual content (sex toys, sexual poses).
    • Items containing swear/curse words
    • Items relating to illegal drugs. Prescription and over-the-counter drugs, alcohol, and tobacco are okay on MTS though.
  • Sexualized children: We do not allow any sexy/sexualized content for baby, toddler, or child sims in any way - no breasts whatsoever on child sims, no "sexy" outfits, etc. If you want to make preteens, make a less developed body for teen sims. Sexualized child content is not allowed at our adult site either.
  • Offensive content: Racist, sexist, homophobic, transphobic, bigoted, hateful or otherwise offensive content will not be allowed. Again, also not allowed at our adult site.
  • Gore/violence: We do not allow uploads which feature prominent, graphic violence and/or gore. Examples of things we do not allow would include items centred around mass shootings, images showing explicit violent imagery, cannibalism, and infanticide. Limited violence and gore may be featured if not the dominant focus of the upload, and not excessively graphic. Think a PG-13 movie. If uncertain whether your upload crosses this line, we suggest making a thread in the Creator Issues forum asking for feedback from a moderator before uploading.
  • EXE installers: Creators are not allowed to post exe (or other executable) files for any area of the site but Modding Tools. If your content needs to be installed to a certain directory, you can compress your files and leave the directory structure intact, so you can tell people to just install to Program Files, for instance, and the files will go where they need to. Executable installers can easily hold viruses, and are generally not needed for installing most content.
  • Preorder bonus content: Certain items were only available if you preordered certain expansions or stuff packs from certain retailers. It's unfortunate if someone missed out on getting them, but they can't be redistributed here as EA has made it clear that they do not allow it.
  • Unmodified EP/SP/Store content: While it is common practice to modify and use bits and pieces of game content to create custom content, extracting content from an expansion, stuff pack, or Store item and uploading it unmodified is not allowed on this site. You are welcome to upload significantly modified versions of expansion, stuff pack, or Store content, but you can't just be ripping it and changing one tiny thing (or nothing) just so people who didn't purchase it can still use it.
  • Stolen/reuploaded content: This should go without saying, but do not upload content made by others and claim it as your own, in whole or in part. Don't upload the work of someone else without their permission... if they wanted to share it at MTS, they can easily upload it here themselves.
  • Uncredited content/violating permissions: If any part of what you have uploaded (mesh, textures, alphas, bump maps, coding, etc.) comes from somebody else's work, you MUST provide a link and credit in the text of your post, for the original author. State what you've used of theirs, the author's name, and give a link back to them. You must check the author's policies to see if you can use their content in the way you want, and you may not violate any policies stated. If there are no policies or they don't disallow your type of usage, or the site is permanently offline, then you can assume it's okay. Please see here for more details: Updates and Remixes of Creations.
  • Redirects: If you want to move a creation to another site, please remove your upload from MTS, don't just edit the text to point to a different site.
Tips:
  • If your upload is rejected or marked as changes required and you're not sure why, ask in Creator Issues.
  • If you're not sure whether your lots are ready for uploading, use the Creator Feedback Forum to get feedback on it.
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