The Sims 4: Backyard Stuff

The Backyard Stuff pack for The Sims 4 was developed by Maxis and published by Electronic Arts, released in 2016. It is a smaller stuff pack that requires the base game and was created to expand outdoor living and summer-themed social options rather than to introduce major new gameplay systems.

The DLC adds two lawn water slides with trick animations, a popcorn and lemonade‑style refreshment vibe, colorful patio furniture, decorative lighting, potted plants, wind chimes, a bird feeder and casual summer clothing and hairstyles, plus other build/buy items intended to flesh out backyard hangouts and poolside parties. Content focuses on object-driven interactions and venue-based social activity, letting players stage playful outdoor gatherings and create leisurely, family-friendly scenes.

Promotion for Backyard Stuff followed Electronic Arts’ and Maxis’ standard channels, using the store listing, social media announcements and short promotional showcases that highlighted the water slides, outdoor décor and casual fashions; community creators and livestreams were used to demonstrate backyard builds and party setups to show how the pack’s items could be used in creative lot design and summer roleplay. Marketing framed the pack as a light, fun update for players who enjoy seasonal outdoor activities and social hangouts.

Reception among players was mixed, with many appreciating the novelty and entertainment value of the water slides, the bright decorative assets and the way the pack supported relaxed social storytelling, while others criticised the pack for its limited scope and lack of deeper gameplay systems compared with larger expansions. Overall the pack found an audience among players who prioritise decorative variety and themed outdoor roleplay rather than extensive mechanical additions.