Urgencies

Urgencies are the common needs, such as hygiene, hunger and energy, that Sims must fulfill. When a need becomes too low, a Sim will have a thought bubble with the image of that need over their head and will make a motion, such as holding themselves if they need to use the bathroom. Sleeping Sims with low needs often have nightmares about the low motives. Sims with low needs tend to wave at the player and complain, and will not learn any new skills until their mood improves. They will also refuse to do several actions. Visiting Sims whose needs fall too low will leave in order to fulfill them.

If needs are not met at all, consequences might occur, such as having an accident on themselves, passing out, or even death. In The Sims: Livin' Large, if most of the family members are in a bad mood and the Tragic Clown painting is present on the lot, the Tragic Clown may pay a visit. In The Sims 2, Sims who are suffering from lack of social activity will be visited by the Social Bunny. In The Sims 2: Open For Business, if a servo's power need is low, they will automatically go to recharge. If cancelled out too much, or if it's nighttime (which will cause the power need to get worse), the servo will run amok and cause chaos, often electrocuting other Sims in the process. In The Sims 2: Seasons, if a PlantSim's sunlight/water need is too low, they will run outside, and might just pass out.