This new version is a compatibility release that lets you play The Sims 3 64-bit on Mac, use Apple’s Metal graphics API, and makes the application a fully native macOS app. You’ll want to use this version if your Mac no longer supports 32-bit applications.

It’s not a remaster or remake of The Sims 3, but you’ll have to download and install it.

What about Windows?

The Sims 3 for Windows PC works on both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Windows.

We suggest players on The Sims 3 version 1.67 or earlier update to version 1.69 which is available if you have registered your game and packs on your account.

To get the new version, you’ll need to do the following.

• Install the 64-bit version. Your computer will see the 64-bit version as a new application, so you need to install the new version instead of updating your game.
• Confirm your Mac meets the new specs. You’ll need a Mac with Apple’s Metal graphics API and to be on macOS High Sierra (10.13.x, released in 2017) or later.

If you already own The Sims 3 on digital:

The Sims 3 for macOS, 64-bit will automatically be added to your EA Account and available to install from My Library.

If you own The Sims 3 on disc:

To get the new version of The Sims 3 for macOS, 64-bit, redeem your code on the EA app and download the 64-bit version. 

You can register your game and packs at www.thesims3.com by logging in with the same account you use with the EA app. 

If you plan to buy The Sims 3:

When you buy The Sims 3 on the EA app, you’ll get access to previous versions on Windows PC and Mac as well as the new 64-bit version for macOS.

All of your existing packs, worlds and purchases from The Sims 3 store work with the new macOS game. You’ll need to download them again to use them.

If you have an earlier macOS that supports 32-bit applications, you can install either version of The Sims 3. You’ll see both versions under My Library, and just need to download and install the version you want to use. Note that you can only have one version installed.

If you have macOS Catalina (10.15.x, released in 2019) or later, which only supports 64-bit applications, you’ll only be able to use the 64-bit version.