Weather (game mechanic)

Weather was introduced in the Seasons expansion pack for The Sims 2. (They were able to talk about weather long before that.) There are four seasons including Winter, Spring, Summer, and Autumn/Fall. Each season has five Sim days in it, so the full cycle runs for 20 Sim days. However, each neighborhood and sub-neighborhood has a selector which allows the player to determine which seasons will occur there, and what order they will occur in. Sims' moods can also change with the weather. Each season has a slightly different color cast, (e.g., winter is more desaturated, and fall has warmer, reddish tone).

Winter
During the winter, it may snow or even hail down onto a residential lot, covering everything outside with snow. Sims are able to freeze or catch a cold if left out in the snow too long. A child, toddler, or baby Sim may be taken away by the Social Worker after they become too cold. The player will receive a warning before this happens though. Sims are also able to have snowball fights, make snow angels, and build snowmen. Toddlers can also play in the snow and dogs can eat the snow (requires Pets). On some days, if the snow is too heavy, Sim children or teenagers that attend school may be able to have a "snow day." Don't bother growing plants because they won't grow during the Winter unless the lot has a green house. Sims will automatically change into seasonal wear.

If a Sim's home doesn't have a roof it will start snowing inside! Sims will be affected by the cold temperature, if this happens.

Spring
During the Spring, it may rain, snow a little, and finally have sunshine. Sims are able to splash in puddles, grow plants (it is still cold so beware!), harvest fruits, and much more! The Sims will still change into their Seasonal clothing though.

If Seasons and Apartment Life is installed, the Palace of Neverending Light will constantly be in Spring.

Summer
During the Summer, Sims build friendly relationships more quickly. Sims can have water balloon fights or splash in the pool. There is a chance of catching heatstroke if your Sim is overheated. Again, a child, toddler, or baby Sim may be taken away by the Social Worker if this happens.

Autumn/Fall
During the fall, the temperature begins to drop and it may begin to snow or rain. During this time, Sims are able to maximize their skills easier and faster than the other seasons. Leaves begin to fall, and of course Sims are able to rake them. After raking them, Sims may jump into the pile of leaves and play with them or even burn the leaves. Sims also begin to change back into Outerwear once outside at the end of Autumn. With this comes along a chance of catching a cold, but not freezing to death.

If Seasons and Apartment Life installed, the Fortress of Eternal Darkness will constantly be in Autumn/Fall.