MrsFlynn's House of Tacky

House of Tacky => The Tea Room => Topic started by: Lapaige46 on January 03, 2021, 03:10:21 PM

Title: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on January 03, 2021, 03:10:21 PM: How weird is that. It's where I do my building and where I have my Saltwood House but today there's no Riverview at all???
My Saltwood house is in a saved game but if I go to the main menu, Riverview is no longer in the new game dropdown. It doesn't matter because I can still access it through my save, but I thought it was strange that it's just gone.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on January 03, 2021, 03:23:45 PM: Need more detail than that. lol. Like what do you mean by disappeared? Like it's not listed in your main menu after you start the game?

If this is the case, look in your Saves folder to see what saves are listed:
\Documents\Electronic Arts\The Sims 3\Saves

Do you see your Riverview Save in there? If not, did you may be move it somewhere?

You may need to check OneDrive, as sometimes things get moved to it. If your Riverview Save is found there, you can safely move it back.

Then turn off OneDrive to prevent this from happening again, as Sims 3 cannot see anything outside the \Documents\Electronic Arts\The Sims 3 folder.

Turn off, disable, or uninstall OneDrive
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/office/turn-off-disable-or-uninstall-onedrive-f32a17ce-3336-40fe-9c38-6efb09f944b0
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on January 03, 2021, 03:28:18 PM: Ooooh Wait... Clue word... Riverview isn't in the dropdown menu....

Hmm... let me take some troubleshooting notes.

That may mean it was uninstalled somehow.

Have you checked your Downloads folder to see if Riverview is in there?
\Documents\Electronic Arts\The Sims 3\Downloads

If yes, check the launcher to see if it's in the Installed tab? Is it there?

If no, it may need to be reinstalled.

If you have Riverview in your Downloads folder, double-click the file and it should automatically start installing.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on January 03, 2021, 03:32:03 PM: I can access Riverview through my saved Saltwood House game. That's not a problem. The reason I asked the other day about saving a house, but not a game is because I was going to delete the game from my save folder, to keep it less cluttered, and start a new game in Riverview from the dropdown. But it's not showing up. Does that make more sense? I know I ramble a lot but I'm not always clear. :D
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on January 03, 2021, 03:33:06 PM: Quote from: MrsFlynn on January 03, 2021, 03:28:18 PM
Ooooh Wait... Clue word... Riverview isn't in the dropdown menu....

Hmm... let me take some troubleshooting notes.

You got it.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on January 03, 2021, 03:47:44 PM: Yep I got it!! Still working on troubleshooting notes, but I did add some more info. Took a bit to get a launcher photo... Finding Riverview in that list was what took so long. lol
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on January 03, 2021, 03:54:14 PM: I've finished my troubleshooting notes.

I think I may have answered this, so please forgive the repeat. :)

Yes, you can delete your "build" save file as long as your house file has been saved to your library. The house can be found in the Show Empty Houses tab and can be placed in any save you choose.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on January 03, 2021, 03:59:19 PM: I got that. I checked in Sunset Valley and the house is showing up there. Too bad no one can afford it. :D But if I delete that game, then I can't start a new Riverview game.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on January 03, 2021, 03:59:37 PM: Now that you mention it, I *think* it used to be there but I just checked and now it's not.

There are 2 files in my World Caches folder - Riverview Sims pkg and Riverview objects pkg.
There are also some files from my various saves. I just can't start a new game unless I go back and d/l it again.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on January 03, 2021, 04:08:52 PM: Ah okay. Yeah, unfortunately if you don't have your Sims 3 store content downloaded and backed up onto a usb key or external hard drive, you'll have to download it again.

We downloaded all our purchased Sims 3 store content a few years back and have been super thankful for that. As then I just grab a copy of the file from our external hard drive and reinstall it.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on January 03, 2021, 04:13:53 PM: No big deal. It's not like I've lost anything. The saves are still there.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on January 03, 2021, 04:25:05 PM: I am curious as to how you still have access to the save files when Riverview isn't installed anymore though. As when I've had a store town uninstall itself it basically locks that save and gives a message similar to this save was saved with items used that are no longer installed.

Ah!! I wonder if it's because you've got parts of it still installed (World Caches folder - Riverview Sims pkg and Riverview objects pkg), but not the world file itself. That actually makes sense. That's how you're able to use your save files, but not start a new Riverview save.

I've actually wondered about that. lol
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on January 03, 2021, 04:33:48 PM: So, as to that... Only Saltwood House is actually showing on the main menu as a "game".
I have some Three Pines saves showing in my saves folder but I'm not able to access them.
I'm going to try and d/l a new Riverview and see if that lets me access the other saves. The biggest problem I have right now is remembering my password for the store. Duh....

I just downloaded it again and now it's showing up 3 times. :D Oh well. I guess a couple of spares won't hurt.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on January 03, 2021, 04:40:56 PM: Go to the Store page: https://store.thesims3.com/, Click the word Login and it will take you to the EA login page. Click the Forgot Password under the Password field. It should send you a message to reset your password.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on January 03, 2021, 04:43:39 PM: I've done that before. You can safely delete the duplicate files from your download folder. :)

Quote from: Lapaige46 on January 03, 2021, 04:33:48 PM
I just downloaded it again and now it's showing up 3 times. :D Oh well. I guess a couple of spares won't hurt.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on January 03, 2021, 04:45:53 PM: I know. I was just joking about keeping the spare. :D I'm tired already. Too pooped to play. :o
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on January 03, 2021, 04:50:09 PM: I know how that is. I'm having a low energy day today too, but thank you for allowing me to help. :)

Quote from: Lapaige46 on January 03, 2021, 04:45:53 PM
I know. I was just joking about keeping the spare. :D I'm tired already. Too pooped to play. :o
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on January 03, 2021, 04:52:22 PM: And thank you!! You're always very helpful. :D
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on January 03, 2021, 04:54:51 PM: Aw shucks!! *Blush* Thank you!!
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on January 03, 2021, 04:55:54 PM: You're welcome. :)
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Sonshine on January 10, 2021, 04:30:14 PM: Lapaige, have you thought about having all of your pw's written in a small notebook? That's what I do. I have to! Many years ago, I used to use the same pw for everything and eventually got hacked. So now I have a different pw for just about everything so I need to write them down. Otherwise, I would never remember them. : /
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on January 10, 2021, 04:37:42 PM: Quote from: Sonshine on January 10, 2021, 04:30:14 PM
Lapaige, have you thought about having all of your pw's written in a small notebook? That's what I do. I have to! Many years ago, I used to use the same pw for everything and eventually got hacked. So now I have a different pw for just about everything so I need to write them down. Otherwise, I would never remember them. : /

Passwords are a real pain. I have several business ones that have to be changed every three months. I keep them in a folder on my phone because I always (almost) have my phone with me. I have them coded but I have them so well coded that I often can't remember what the code is. :D I have to have a notebook for my codes I guess.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 15, 2021, 07:27:33 PM: A couple of tip links that MrsGoodWrench found, cause my Google-fu is totally off today.

Riverview not in drop menu despite having it installed
https://www.reddit.com/r/Sims3/comments/n4flmk

I installed a world from the Sims 3 Store but it’s not in game.
https://nonasims.wordpress.com/tag/install-world/

Store and Custom Content uninstalls itself
https://sims3.crinrict.com/en/2011/09/bug-store-and-custom-content-uninstalls-itself.html

Why did all of my store content suddenly uninstall?
https://forums.thesims.com/en_us/discussion/951888/why-did-all-of-my-store-content-suddenly-uninstall

Wanted to share these tips just in case they can be of help. :)
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 15, 2021, 07:30:06 PM: Thanks, MrsFlynn & MrsGoodWrench. I didn't see those. I will check it out tomorrow.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 16, 2021, 12:46:49 PM: Thank you, ladies. Option 1 of Nonasims worked. Now we'll see if it stays there. :D
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 16, 2021, 03:34:24 PM: Yay!! I'm happy to hear that helped.

Though it sounds like you're able to install it just fine, as before. It's getting it to actually stay installed in the game that seems to be the issue?
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 16, 2021, 05:09:46 PM: I just enlarged Ashley's (green) house. I think I'd better save it in case I lose everything again. :D
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 16, 2021, 05:53:47 PM: Yep. Anytime I've remodeled a house or lot I save a copy of it. That way I can place it into another save if desired. :)

Quote from: Lapaige46 on May 16, 2021, 05:09:46 PM
I just enlarged Ashley's (green) house. I think I'd better save it in case I lose everything again. :D
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 16, 2021, 05:56:01 PM: Done. Saved the tea house and the B&B as well.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 17, 2021, 12:28:23 PM: Well, guess what. Riverview disappeared again. I had to go back into the Downloads Dashboard and reinstall it. Best of all, my saves from yesterday are intact.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 17, 2021, 04:09:51 PM: Thank you for posting what's happening. I had a feeling it might "uninstall" itself. I've never had that happen, that I know of. I'm not entirely sure what to do to fix it. As it sounds like my go-to fix of installing content into a new Sims 3 folder isn't working for you.

Quote from: Lapaige46 on May 17, 2021, 12:28:23 PM
Well, guess what. Riverview disappeared again. I had to go back into the Downloads Dashboard and reinstall it. Best of all, my saves from yesterday are intact.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 17, 2021, 05:25:31 PM: I had the game shut down on me suddenly and when I started it up again, no Riverview. Back to the Downloads Dashboard and it came back. This is going to be a pain in the neck if I have to keep doing that but I'm trying to focus on playing my actual sims in SV right now instead of building in RV. I'm getting a bit frustrated there because I haven't yet installed any CC so there are a lot of things missing from my builds in Riverview. I am working on a Charleston house which has shutters. I was using CC shutters and thought I'd try to use in-game ones but they don't fit.

The kicky new hairdos I had for a couple of my gals are also gone. :::grumble:::
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 27, 2021, 05:58:09 PM: I got curious if I could find anymore information on the store content uninstalling itself. I found a couple of links worth noting. Though I think some of this information can be found on NonaMena's site.

Anyway, here's what I found:

Installed content not in-game!
https://steamcommunity.com/app/47890/discussions/0/846943514118184574

Run the game as Administrator - Right click your shortcut to Sims 3 and select Run as Administrator.

-----

Store Content Uninstalls itself
https://sims3.crinrict.com/en/2011/09/bug-store-and-custom-content-uninstalls-itself.html

Go to this folder: \Documents\Electronic Arts\The Sims 3\DCCache and find a file called missingdeps.idx. Delete this file. It’s a cache file that will be recreated on the next start of the Launcher.
Open your Launcher/game to see if you have your stuff back.

-----

Riverview not in drop menu despite having it installed
https://www.reddit.com/r/Sims3/comments/n4flmk

Go to the SigsCache sub folder:
\Documents\Electronic Arts\The Sims 3\SigsCache

You will find 2 files in there igs.bin and platform.bin. Delete those 2 files and relaunch the game.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 27, 2021, 07:14:06 PM: Thank you. I found those all earlier today. I spent the day reading everything I could find and nothing worked. I even reinstalled an old game from my old computer. I thought my store stuff was there but it was only TSR downloads but nothing from the Sims Store.

I moved the installed towns, Riverview and Union Cove, that I'd saved to the desktop and neither of them showed up. I think I'll go back to Rollercoaster Tycoon. :D
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 28, 2021, 12:40:30 PM: Silly question, but did you try uninstalling and reinstalling the game? That's the only thing I've seen suggested that I haven't personally suggested yet. As I like to try all the other tips first before a complete uninstall/reinstall of the game.

If you want to do that you can save your Sims 3 user folder to the desktop first before reinstalling the game. This way you don't loose any of your save files, CC, mods, Sims, downloads etc.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 28, 2021, 12:55:12 PM: I've actually done than a couple of times but was going to do it again. Missing store content seems to be a common problem. I read something yesterday in a post from 2017 which is slightly more current, about a content patch for 1.67 that was no longer available. I can't remember what it was actually for but someone was able to find it and posted the link. I tried that and nothing happened and the folder is empty. It was suggested that anti-virus software might be having an impact but I'm using the same anti-virus that I have on my other computer.
At one point yesterday (I think I might have mentioned it) I actually got Riverview to show up in my New Game drop-down but then Union Cove had disappeared.

I'm not exactly a computer whiz, but I'm no dummy either. I've been using computers since the first home system came out and I don't usually have a problem figuring things out (my husband was a career computer jockey so I learned by osmosis :D), but this is defeating me. Since I don't have a lot on this computer, I might just do a full factory reset and start over.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 29, 2021, 02:34:16 PM: I've done a full factory reset of the computer and I'm now downloading my Sims games from Steam again. I'll see if I can download Riverview again and if it will install/stay installed. Then I'll start slowly loading in my saves to see if something there has messed things up. My d/l is at 80% so I figure it will take another hour to complete. :D

Steam has a sale on right now but unfortunately it doesn't include any of the Sims game. :(
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 29, 2021, 03:23:09 PM: Hopefully the factory reset of the computer and redownload/install of the game will help!! *Fingers Crossed!!*

Sims 3 doesn't go on sale as much as it used to on Steam. Specially since Steam got Sims 4.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 29, 2021, 04:09:57 PM: I downloaded Riverview and it worked. Then I downloaded Union Cove and they were both in there. I shut down, moved a Riverview save into the new saves file, booted up the game ... no Riverview. Went to the Download Dashboard and installed it again, but it didn't show up in the drop down. Union Cove is there.
Went back and removed the save, loaded the game up again, still no RV. I just don't understand why it's working fine on the old computer but not this one.

I give up. :(
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Sonshine on May 30, 2021, 09:31:04 AM: Maybe something to so w/that computer's specs? Do you have the same OS on both comps?
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 30, 2021, 09:37:24 AM: Same OS and this one is a better computer. I'm going to try something a bit later. I'm going to completely uninstall RV again and d/l my old RV and see if that helps.

I'm currently trying to wake up my brain with my morning solitaire challenge. :D
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 30, 2021, 12:50:27 PM: I just don't know what to say anymore. Nothing works. I try to d/l RV I get the message to make sure my game is up-to-date. It is. I opened the game on my old computer and RV was there and functional. I loaded the game directly to a thumb drive and installed it on the new computer. I opened the game, but no RV. It's showing in the installed worlds file as well as World Cache.

It's got something to do with store content since all my objects that I used my points for are not installing either. I have read everything I can find and tried all the fixes but still nothing works. EA isn't being particularly helpful either.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Sonshine on May 30, 2021, 01:42:40 PM: I can believe that about EA! Usually though, the store objects that you've bought will show up as "owned" and you can just re d/l it instead of transferring it. Of course that will not help w/your saved game. I'm sure you've tried that though. What happens if you just save your sim and the family and house to the library and transfer that instead of the whole save? That's the only thing I can come up with from a non geek brain. : /
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 30, 2021, 02:08:28 PM: Everything from the store shows up in my download dashboard, including RV, but nothing will install. I've even launched it directly from the thumb drive and the RV d/l icon. It opens the game and still RV does not show up but UC does and it's not even on the thumb drive. I am totally baffled and 90% of the post regarding this issue are several years old and most of them say one version or another of the same things.
When I try to download from a RV save I get an error message - serious error - strongly recommend restarting application. So discouraged.

I've just posted about the issue on the Steam forum so we'll see if anyone has any current ideas for fixes. Everything on other forums is so old.

Think I'm just going to stick with Mah Jong today. :o
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Sonshine on May 30, 2021, 04:28:15 PM: Or just play that particular save on your old comp. : / I hate frustrations! Back when those threads were new, there was no such thing as win 10 and TS3 was still mostly active. Here are some hugs for your frustrations: {{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}}
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 30, 2021, 04:33:11 PM: I suppose I could but it's not ideal. Keep fingers crossed that the Steam community comes up with something.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Sonshine on May 30, 2021, 07:48:50 PM: Well "not ideal" is a lot better than it totally not working on the new comp. I wonder if there is a techie who who knows games and/or sims would know anything.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 30, 2021, 08:26:22 PM: I'm hoping to see some kind of response on Steam but nothing so far.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 07:30:36 AM: I feel silly asking but when you uninstalled/reinstalled Sims 3, did you:

1. Uninstall the game.
2. Run Ccleaner or some kind of registry cleaner to clean out bits of information that gets left behind by uninstalling programs.
3. Install the game.
4. Load the game start a test save to see that it runs okay.
5. Start installing store stuff a little at a time to not overwhelm the Sims 3 launcher.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 07:46:08 AM: Can you refresh my memory on what packs you have? The reason I'm asking is because some of the earlier packs - their patches may not be included in the super patch or what patch you get with the Steam version.

This patcher program linked below might help with that.

The Sims 3 Patch Downloader
https://modthesims.info/d/409829/the-sims-3-patch-downloader.html
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 12:02:15 PM: As to your first reply, yes, I did all that and reinstalled. Still could not install RV and got the "latest update" error message again. Odd, because it installed yesterday even if it was only briefly.
I've uninstalled it again, cleaned up the computer, yet again and now I'm reinstalling...again. It takes almost an hour.
I have Ambitions, Generations, Pets, and Seasons.

I would assume that with reloading from Steam that I'd have all the updated versions, but I could be wrong. 1.67.... is their latest updated version. 1.69... is Origins. But that shouldn't be the issue because it played fine on my old system.

I still haven't had any response to my post on the Steam boards. Maybe I'll post to Carl's again to see if anyone has any more current information. I can't believe I'm investing so much time to this. :D Riverview is my favorite town. I've done a lot of work there and I really want to be able to play it on this computer. :(

However, I will look at that patch link. Thanks.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 12:39:26 PM: Thank you for noting what packs you have.

We're thinking that Steam version may not have the little patches that the patch downloader mod has. It's worth looking into to see if it might help.

The other place you may try posting about the issue is over at the Official Sims 3 Forum. Igazor and/or PuzzlezAddict may be able to help. They seem to be very knowledgeable in the technical part of Sims 3.

https://forums.thesims.com/en_US/discussion/976212
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 12:57:53 PM: We looked over you're post at Carl's and are still stumped. We're not sure if the The Sims 3 Patch Downloader mod will work in keeping the store content (Riverview) installed.

It sounds like the install/uninstalling that the game is doing is something that is separate from what the patches do.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 01:19:28 PM: Thanks for looking at this. It was on a post by Igazor the other day that mentioned a patch but that didn't seem to do anything. I just read there again that there is something to do with a store patch.
Meanwhile, what do I do with the patch d/l that you sent?
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 01:37:15 PM: Brand new install - nothing else in Sims d/l folder.

(https://i.ibb.co/yk4RtBN/Sims-3.jpg) (https://ibb.co/yk4RtBN)
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 01:42:44 PM: Thank you for sharing the photo. That actually tells me that it might be worth trying to install the Sims 3 Patch Downloader mod to see if that might help. It shouldn't hurt to try.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 01:48:11 PM: I have to leave for a bit. They're having a little going-away party downstairs for one of the residents here. She's 99 and moving over to an assisted living facility. I missed the one this morning for one of the ladies who turned 103 today.
Let me know what I'm supposed to do with that d/l and I'll give it a shot when I get back.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 01:54:33 PM: Oh Wow!! That's awesome!! :)

Here's notes on how to run the Sims 3 Patch Downloader mod

1. Run the program.
2. Check the installed version and update columns to make sure they match.
-- If not, down at the bottom there is a download all "sequential" button - click that.

It will download each patch in order and install them.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 02:56:50 PM: Where does it need to go?
I've opened it but there's nothing in it.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 03:19:19 PM: Make a folder on your desktop. Unzip it into that folder and then run the TS3PD.exe file. You may not see the .exe extension, depending on your settings.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 03:34:09 PM: I've unzipped and opened it but it's not showing anything. I've found a bunch of posts on Steam with this issue, but no real resolution.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 03:36:37 PM: Ah okay. I'm sorry. Thank you for clarifying.

Looking up some more info on it to see if anything might help.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 03:39:22 PM: It sounds like it's not detecting the Steam version for some reason. I'm not sure if there's anyway around that.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 03:43:06 PM: I was just looking at my TS3 files and since it's a brand new download, there is nothing in them except for "collections/user". It's full. Where would all that stuff have come from? I can't tell what it is except they're package files and sig files.

I have to go through Steam to even launch the game and the games were all downloaded from the Steam site (except RV) so I don't know why it would be an issue there. Oh, did you mean the patch thing? That could be.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 03:54:01 PM: This is what a new Sims 3 folder looks like when I open it.

Yours doesn't look like this?

Yes, I was talking about the patch downloader mod.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 03:58:35 PM: Interesting. I checked those files in the collections folder and they seem to be TS4 files. This is what came up when I opened one of the files.

"In general, most modifications in The Sims 4 will be delivered as .package files.

To import these modifications, highlight (use your cursor to draw a box around) the .package files in the folder and then right-click on them and select "Copy". Now you'll need to navigate to your Sims 4 Mods folder.

To do this, go to Documents > Electronic Arts > The Sims 4 > Mods.Once you're in that folder, simply right-click anywhere and then select "Paste." You'll then see the .package files you've downloaded appear!

When you start up your game, the mod or CC you've installed should be there and working perfectly!

You can watch video tutorial at:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqM0M2T9A_Y"
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 04:02:49 PM: This is mine.

(https://i.ibb.co/d5ryxPX/sims-file.jpg) (https://ibb.co/d5ryxPX)

The Mods file I just put back.

And I apologize. I feel like I'm monopolizing your time with this.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 04:05:08 PM: I'm not sure if they are really TS4 files or not. I do know that both games use .package files. But if a S4 .package file gets added to Sims 3 it won't work.

I just looked in Documents\Electronic Arts\The Sims 3\Collections\User and saw a bunch of files as well. None of which I put there. So I'm assuming they are there by default. Meaning they get added when the user folder gets created.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 04:06:24 PM: I think you're right.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 04:08:04 PM: Yep that looks to be correct. Though it looks like you may have started a game first to get it to add some of those folders. lol
As some of those folders/files don't get generated until you start a save file.

Oh no problem. I'm happy to help or at least try to help. :)
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 04:10:41 PM: MrsGoodWrench just shared this link with me, so I thought I'd pass it along:

https://sims.fandom.com/wiki/Game_guide:Getting_store_content_to_work_with_the_Steam_version_of_The_Sims_3

Hopefully it will help!! :)
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 04:11:59 PM: Quote from: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 04:08:04 PM
Yep that looks to be correct. Though it looks like you may have started a game first to get it to add some of those folders. lol
As some of those folders/files don't get generated until you start a save file.

Oh no problem. I'm happy to help or at least try to help. :)

I did, actually, when I tried to download RV. I then uninstalled it.

Thank you. I know you're trying. It's just a complete baffle! And I don't WANT to play it on my old computer. ::: stamping feet :::
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 04:13:08 PM: Quote from: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 04:10:41 PM
MrsGoodWrench just shared this link with me, so I thought I'd pass it along:

https://sims.fandom.com/wiki/Game_guide:Getting_store_content_to_work_with_the_Steam_version_of_The_Sims_3

Hopefully it will help!! :)

Well, thanks for trying (and thank you MrsGoodwrench) . I use Chrome and here's what it says about that.

"Google Chrome automatically finds "Sims3Launcher" from the Steam directory after initiating the download process via The Sims 3 Store - you don't need to do anything else on your part."
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 04:17:34 PM: It's downloading Store files just fine.

The part that isn't working right is installing and staying installed.

Quote from: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 04:13:08 PM
Well, thanks for trying (and thank you MrsGoodwrench) . I use Chrome and here's what it says about that.

"Google Chrome automatically finds "Sims3Launcher" from the Steam directory after initiating the download process via The Sims 3 Store - you don't need to do anything else on your part."
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 04:19:30 PM: I completely understand not wanting to play it on your old computer. My old computer wasn't even capable of handling Sims 3 and all it's packs. Though it did pretty well with base game. lol :)

Quote from: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 04:11:59 PM
I did, actually, when I tried to download RV. I then uninstalled it.

Thank you. I know you're trying. It's just a complete baffle! And I don't WANT to play it on my old computer. ::: stamping feet :::
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 04:35:04 PM: Correct. Store content shows up in the download dashboard but won't install.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 04:38:01 PM: I wish I could re-create the issue. So I could at least see what's happening.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 04:42:58 PM: Outside of clearing everything Sims off your computer, installing Steam and purchasing games from there, I don't think that's likely. :D
I don't think the problem is necessarily with Steam either since the games on my old computer are the same games from Steam.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 04:43:27 PM: And I've given up for today. I'm playing solitaire.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 04:49:39 PM: I don't think it's quite a Steam issue either. It has something to do with the game installing/uninstalling the store files. It's almost like maybe a permissions thing. - If that makes sense.

I'm still chewing on this. :)

Have fun playing Solitaire. That's a fun game!!
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 04:56:31 PM: I play the Microsoft ones. There are daily challenges of 5 different games.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 05:40:26 PM: Another Silly question, have you tried downloading RV with a different browser Firefox or Edge.

It's been suggested to use a different browser to download store content having problems downloading or keeping store content installed.

I remember awhile back having problems keeping store content installed. So I tried downloading it with a different browser and for whatever reason it was able to stay installed.

I'm not sure why though. It has always baffled me why downloading store content with a different browser made a difference.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 06:34:27 PM: I downloaded it with Edge just now and it's in the drop-down. I wonder how long it will stay there. Wouldn't that be something if that was the issue all along?
Anyway, I'm going to go and make supper now so I'll try it later. I'll load in some of my saves and see what happens. Then I'll d/l UC and see what happens with that. Last time it seemed I could have one or the other but not both.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 06:40:45 PM: We've had issues with downloading store content with a browser and it not working, Then trying downloading with a different browser and it working just fine. It's been a long while, but it's definitely worth a try.

You're not able to keep both Riverview and Union Cove installed?
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 06:52:57 PM: I feel I may have asked this before - Have you tried running the game as Administrator?
- Right-click on the Sims 3 icon and select Run as Administrator.

Wanted to share this link as well as it's got some great troubleshooting info in it. :)

Toubleshooting for The Sims 3
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=279488894
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 07:35:23 PM: I've seen that suggestion but when I right click on the icon I don't even see an option to run as admin.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 07:58:19 PM: Try this: Right-click on the Sims 3 icon go to the compatibility tab and check the box that says Run as Administrator.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 08:29:10 PM: What version of Windows 10 are you using?

The reason I ask is because there are different versions of Windows 10 that more or less features.

Which version of Windows operating system am I running?
https://support.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/which-version-of-windows-operating-system-am-i-running-628bec99-476a-2c13-5296-9dd081cdd808
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 09:23:30 PM: 21H1?
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 09:32:51 PM: That's the current patch for Windows 10. Just above that should be the Windows Edition - should say something like Windows 10 Pro or Windows 10 Home. Also, it may have something about S mode with it.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 09:34:07 PM: Windows 10 Home. Nothing with an S
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 09:35:52 PM: And Trying this: Right-click on the Sims 3 icon go to the compatibility tab and check the box that says Run as Administrator.

Doesn't work?
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 09:39:58 PM: I don't even see a compatibility tab. The only place I have the icon is on the desktop shortcut.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 09:45:30 PM: That's (desktop shortcut) is what I'm talking about. Sorry about that.

I got the wrong path. Right-click on the Sims 3 shortcut > Properties > Compatibility tab and check the box that says Run as Administrator.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 09:51:29 PM: Looked up some more info....

Go into Steam Find Sims 3 In Steam - Right click on game and go to Manage and inside there click browse local files. That should take you to your install directory. From there go into the game folder then go into the bin folder - Find TS3.exe right click on that and select properties.

You should be able to find the compatibility tab from there.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 10:01:00 PM: I had a reply typed up and when I went to your most recent post, it disappeared. :D
I just launched the game and RV is still there including a couple of my saves. The real test will be when I turn it on tomorrow. It seems just downloading it through Edge was the answer.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 10:03:17 PM: This is weird. a couple of posts didn't send. I think I must be tired and didn't actually post them. It's past my bedtime. :D
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 10:07:47 PM: Yep... I'm getting sleepy too. That will be a good test. Shut things down for now and check it tomorrow to see if RV has stayed installed. :)
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on May 31, 2021, 10:09:13 PM: I'll let you know what happens. Goodnight.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on May 31, 2021, 10:12:21 PM: Awesome!!

Goodnight. :)
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on June 01, 2021, 07:54:02 AM: Unbelievable. It's gone again. I can't worry about it this morning though.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on June 01, 2021, 08:07:16 AM: Shoot!! Thank you for the update though. I was wondering if it actually stayed installed for you or not.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: Lapaige46 on June 01, 2021, 09:14:04 AM: I shouldn't be spending time on this this morning but I can't resist. I deleted all of RV except for my save and downloaded it again from the store using MS Edge. Successfully installed it and it's in the game again...for the moment. If I have to d/l it every time I want to play it, I guess that's the way it will be. So I'm not shutting down the game today just to see what happens.
Title: Re: Riverview Has Disappeared!
Post by: MrsFlynn on August 01, 2021, 12:46:11 AM: I have read in many places about Sims 3 players having issues with disappearing Sims 3 Store and custom content. It seems to uninstall itself.

It's not only Steam and Origin players mentioning this, on a rare occassion I've read players with the disc version report disappearing store and custom content.

I haven't had any issues with disappearing content in quite some time, but still wanted to offer a suggestion of something that might help. -- Thinking of the disappearing content being due to Sims 3 not being white listed in your antivirus software.

Here's the troubleshooting steps:

-- Using a new Sims 3 folder.
Rename your current Sims 3 folder, so game can create new one when game is launched.

1. Disable the the antivirus software.
2. Install Riverview
3. Play Sims 3 in that open and close it a few times to see what stays installed.

If RV stays installed then it might be that Sims 3 may need to be white listed on your antivirus software. If you're not sure how, you may need to Google how to do that. As each antivirus software seems to have it's own way of doing things.

✽ If the above doesn't help you might try these tips from this (https://jadekitten.net/mfhot/index.php?topic=58.msg3124#msg3124) post.