Curate, connect, and discover
Ts2 Resources - Blog Posts
My sideblogs which should be easier to find now. :)
@cc-shop-for-shorty-da-simmer
@ssw-downloads
@ssw-gameplay
@ssw-tutorials
@sm-bach
This one is tricky to do, but go to tutorials and find the one that helps you extract a sim.
*tutorial*
For those who play either Sims Mobile and/or Sims Free Play.
https://sims3.crinrict.com/en/custom-content-cc/bad-cc
https://www.carls-sims-4-guide.com/forum/index.php?topic=9187.0#post_ModsTip
I did this recently for myself so I might as well share. This is TS2 facial expression swatch and also some expression combos (in case you don't know - Decorgal's pose overlay hack allows you to apply and blend various expressions / animation loops)
And also, a tip - you can easily edit the pose hack STR to get better angry expression -> I replaced "Eyes Closed (S)" with annoyed face animation, which is a little twitchy (not suitable for movie recording - head movement) but still better than original adult angry face. BTW I actually managed to edit c-annoyed animation so Sims don't squint the eyes as much , you can download the annoyed animation replacement HERE (SFS)
I could use more evil or seductive expressions, TS2 game is seriously lacking those ;/
Update 5: added archives section. I think it warrants a reblog (updates aren't showing up on reblogs).
Sims 2 Databases Database
(Alright it's an index, I just had to)
Made it for myself, I might as well share. If there's something I've missed please let me know.
CC:
Sims 2 Object Default Database
Sims 2 Default Database [CAS]
Sims 2 Hair Database
Shoes Database
EA Sims 2 Store Items 2016
Sims 2 Functional Finds [Sorted by function]
Resource list: Clutter and decorative items [massive index at GoS]
TS1 to TS2 Conversion/Recreation Database
TS3 to TS2 Conversion Database
Sims 4t2 CAS Conversion Archive [EA]
Custom Clothing Conversion Database [Custom - ts4 only?]
Sims 4t2 Build/Buy Conversion Database [EA]
4t2 CC Database Build & Buy [Custom]
TSM-to-TS2 Conversion Database
The Sims spin-off games to the PC TS2 [&3+4]
CC Archives:
Sims Cave.
Sims Graveyard.
Liquid Sims - Community Archives.
Sim Archive Project, at The Internet Archive.
The Booty, at PSMBD.
Sims 2 Packrat, on Tumblr [Watch out for the recent SFS Hacking problem].
Resources:
CEP-Extras List, Huge Lunatic @ Sims 2 Artists.
Several Lists of Maxis Resources for Modding, under Notes. Pick'n'Mix Mods, own website.
Sims 2 Painting Sizes Database.
The Sims 2 Tutorials Database.
Sims 2 GUID Database Revival (Yes I'm shamelessly promoting it).
Update: added EA ts2 store items, Painting sizes db, Tutorials db. Update 2: GUID db Revival. Update 3: believe it or not, there's more - Shoes db, Sims 2 Functional Finds [sorted by function]. Update 4: Resource list: Clutter and decorative items, at @gardenofshadowssims Update 5: added archives section.
GUID Database Revival
I've finished setting up a way to revive the GUID database, albeit not an automatic one, it is low-key, but rather simple. Instructions are on the pinned post. [It's a Dreamwidth community, basically one webpage where people can dump their GUID info, straight from Excel or a list].
It is searchable with multi search add-ons for browser. Search for multiple entries in one go.
Avoid conflicts with originally registered GUIDs (Not foolproof; assuming GUIDs where assigned in a certain way).
Avoid conflicts with new random GUIDs (that are in the DB).
Creators are indexed - see if your favorite active creators are on there.
Everyone can join, but only members can post. Happy Simming! https://sims2-guid-database.dreamwidth.org/ Example:
Obligatory CCR music:
SimPE Material Definitions Index:
DW link for a more legible layout. Another thing I made for myself and might as well share. Definitions have links to wiki. If I made any errors feel free to let me know.
Further Reading:
Texture Mapping – Wikipedia.
Materials in general – Unity Manual.
In SimPE – PixelHate's Guide to Material Definitions [TXMT].
Definitions:
Material Type: StandardMaterial (stdMat).
alphaRefValue – (I forgot)
deprecatedStdMatInvDiffuseCoeffMultiplier (idk)
reflectivity
stdMatAlphaBlendMode – Alpha Layer Settings (Responsible for Transparency).
stdMatAlphaMultiplier
stdMatAlphaRefValue – Reflection?
stdMatAlphaTestEnabled
stdMatBaseTextureAddressingU – Base Texture Settings (The Main Texture).
stdMatBaseTextureAddressingV
stdMatBaseTextureAlphaReplicate
stdMatBaseTextureEnabled
stdMatBaseTextureName
stdMatCullMode – Backface Culling Mode.
stdMatDiffCoef">0.8,0.8,0.8< - Diffuse Reflection – Coefficient [pretty sure. Isn't that Albedo?].
stdMatEmissiveCoef">1.00000,1.00000,1.00000< - Emissivity Coefficient.
stdMatEnvCubeBlurFactor">0.000000< - Environment Cube Map Definitions.
stdMatEnvCubeCoef">0,0,0<
stdMatEnvCubeLockedToCamera>0<
stdMatEnvCubeMode>none<
stdMatEnvCubeTextureName
stdMatFillMode>solid<
stdMatLayer>0<
stdMatLightingEnabled">1<
stdMatMinLightRangeHint">4<
stdMatNormalMapTextureEnabled – Normal/Bump Map Settings.
stdMatNormalMapTextureAddressingU
stdMatNormalMapTextureAddressingV
stdMatNormalMapTextureName
stdMatSpecCoef">0.53,0.53,0.53< - Specular Reflection & Specular Map Settings.
stdMatSpecMaskTextureEnabled
stdMatSpecMaskTextureName
stdMatSpecPower">1e+002<
(Not in SimPE - Albedo Map)
stdMatTextureCoordAnimMode">none<
stdMatTextureCoordAnimNumTiles">1.000000,1.000000<
stdMatTextureCoordTfAnimOrigin">0.500000,0.500000<
stdMatTextureCoordTfAnimRotSpeed">0.000000<
stdMatTextureCoordTfAnimRotStartEnd">0.000000,1.000000<
stdMatTextureCoordTfAnimRotWaveform">triangular<
stdMatTextureCoordTfAnimScaleSpeed">0.000000<
stdMatTextureCoordTfAnimScaleStartEnd">0.000000,1.000000<
stdMatTextureCoordTfAnimScaleWaveform">triangular<
stdMatTextureCoordTfAnimTransEnd">0.000000,0.000000<
stdMatTextureCoordTfAnimTransSpeed">0.000000<
stdMatTextureCoordTfAnimTransStart">0.000000,0.000000<
stdMatTextureCoordTfAnimTransWaveform">triangular<
stdMatTextureCoordTileAnimSpeed">0.000000<
stdMatUntexturedDiffAlpha">1<
Sims 2 Databases Database
(Alright it's an index, I just had to)
Made it for myself, I might as well share. If there's something I've missed please let me know. This list is being updated, Tumblr is being a pain and updates won't show up on re-blogs. Visit the original post to view the most current version. Mirror: Dreamwidth.
CC:
By Type:
Sims 2 Object Default Database [Discontinued - DW].
Sims 2 Object Default Database [Active - Spreadsheet].
Sims 2 Default Database [CAS].
Sims 2 Hair Database.
Sims 2 CC: Afro Hairstyles.
Sims 2 Shoes Database.
Sims 2 EA Store Items 2016.
Sims 2 The Maxis Match Repository Project [CAS] [Pinterest Ver.]
Sims 2 Repository Finds [Objects] [sorted into categories].
Sims 2 Functional Finds [Sorted by function].
Resource list: Clutter and decorative items [massive index at GoS].
Sims 2 Lot Database [Maxis ones emptied out].
Sims 2 Lot Makeover Database [Maxis Lots] [Note the Uploading Tutorial].
SkyBox/Horizons/Skylines Database.
Maxis Career Conversions TS1+3+4 to TS2 [Sorted by Game&EP - Under Downloads].
Fractured Moonlight's Stone Super Set - Database [Creator Unknown, let me know if you know].
By Theme:
List of Maxis Lost & Found Objects Converted into Usable Items.
Stories to Sims 2 Conversion Database. [DW Backup]
TS1 to TS2 Conversion/Recreation Database.
TS1 Catalog Conversions [Active, Include OG Object Descriptions].
TS3 to TS2 Conversion Database [DW Backup].
TS3 to TS2 Traits Project Mod Tracking Sheet [Blog Ver.]
TS4 to TS2 CAS Conversion Archive [EA].
TS4 to TS2 CC Clothing Conversion Database [Custom - ts4 only?].
TS4 to TS2 Build/Buy Conversion Database [EA].
TS4 to TS2 CC Build & Buy Database [Custom].
The Sims spin-off games to the PC TS2 [&3+4].
TSM-to-TS2 Conversion Database [DW Backup].
Sims 2 Historical Finds [CAS&Objects] [Sorted by Era/Period].
Grunge Masterlist Project 2025.
List of Asian Sims 2 Sites With Working Downloads [As of 2017?].
CC Archives:
Sim Archive Project, at The Internet Archive [Introduction Post].
Sims Cave.
Sims Graveyard.
Liquid Sims - Community Archives.
The Booty, at PSMBD.
Sims 2 Packrat, on Tumblr [Watch out for the recent SFS Hacking problem].
Ekrubynaffit (a.k.a bestbuild4sims) has re-uploaded a lot of archives of defunct creators. Albums with DL on her pinterest. Mainly build and buy mode, thanks a lot!
Resources:
CEP-Extras List, Huge Lunatic at Sims 2 Artists.
The Sims 2 Tutorials Database [Active] (Really needs a backup outside of Tumblr).
Several Lists of Maxis Resources for Modding,Pick'n'Mix Mods, own website, under Notes.
Sims 2 GUID Database Revival (Yes I'm shamelessly promoting it).
Sims 2 Trait GUID Database, by FireFlower.
Sims 2 Painting Sizes Database.
List of all Color Actions, With DL, ZeroDark/Graphic at GoS.
List of all WSO Actions, by Blue Heaven Sims, under Resources.
List of Hacks & Mods That Use Tokens, Bulbizarre at MTS.
Update notes are under the cut:
Update: Custom Clothing Conversion db [4t2], by @brandinotbroke/ Hair db, by @krabbysims/ Sims 4t2 CAS Conversion Archive [EA], by @mdpthatsme/ CEP-Extras List, by @hugelunatic/ Lists of Maxis Resources for Modding, by @picknmixsims/ Sims 2 Tutorials db [Active], by @sims2tutorials/ Sim Archive Project at The Internet Archive, by various - see @simnostalgia. Update 1: added EA ts2 store items at GoS/ Painting sizes db/ Tutorials db, by @sims2tutorials. Update 2: GUID db Revival. Update 3: believe it or not, there's more - Shoes db/ Sims 2. Functional Finds [sorted by function], by @sims2functionalfinds. Update 4: Resource list: Clutter and decorative items, at @gardenofshadowssims. Update 5: added archives section. Update 6: added @ekrubynaffit's Pinterest Archive. Update 7: Fixed TSM link, added Stories db/ Afro Hairstyles db, by @letomills/ SkyBox/Horizons/Skylines Database, by @simmergetic/ Grunge Masterlist Project 2025, by @pixeldolly/ and DW backup links (Everything that's exclusively on Tumblr/LJ should be backed somewhere else). Update 8: List of Asian Sims 2 Sites With Working Downloads [as of 2017?] by @0201-sims. Update 9: added Sims 2 Repository Finds [sorted into categories], by @sims2repositoryfinds. Update 10: added Sims 2 Object db [Discontinued], because the more the better. Update 11 Yet another (!): The Maxis Match Repository Project [CAS], by @whattheskell [how did i forget?]/ TS3 to TS2 Traits Project Mod Tracking Sheet, by Rowena Sims & @noodlebelli. Update 11: Maxis Career Conversions TS1+3+4 to TS2 [Sorted by Game&EP - Under Downloads], by @sims2idea-lientebollemeis2i. Update 12: HS I found another one: List of all Color Actions - Names, Creators, and Download Links. Maintained for over a decade by @zerographic at GoS :P Update 13: separated by type & theme. added Sims 2 Historical Finds [CAS&Objects] [Sorted by Era/Period], by @ts2history. Update 14: added to resources Trait GUID db, by @fireflowersims. Update 15: I shit you not, there's more - Sims 2 Lot Makeover db [Maxis Lots], by @ts2lotmakeoverdb/ List of Hacks & Mods That Use Tokens, Bulbizarre at MTS/ TS1 Catalog Conversions [Active], by @kitteninthewindow/ WSO Action Masterlist, by Blue Heaven Sims under Resources. Update 16: List of Maxis Lost & Found Objects Converted into Usable Items, @kirlicues. Update 17: Sims 2 Lot db [Maxis ones emptied out], by @mikexx2 @mrsktrout @ts2lots.
Recent finds I really like: Different Colour Standards into hexes, here's RAL:
Royal Skies' fast tutorials for Blender. He has playlists full of knowledge, here's one.
Ambient CG, a website for free & ready to use materials. Has really good stuff.
Nvidia’s vMaterial Library, it's fantastic. It’s free but requires registration, 2gb~ of textures.
Free section at Poliigon has some good stuff as well.
22.04.25: Free 3D models at CG Trader's free section. Really interesting stuff.
Resources for Creating: My Go-To things.
Update: I’ll be updating the list on this page from now on, since Tumblr can’t handle so many hyper-links in one post, on Dreamwidth - right here, so I won't have to update it multiple times. Please note: I keep updating this list, and updates aren't showing up on reblogs. Please check the original post for the most up to date list.
Sooo this is going to be a long comprehensive list. I got back to this game after a long time and with a different computer, with a dedicated graphics card, hurray! It made me want to return to making things, so while gathering back all the necessary stuff, I've complied this list. It might be is updated as I go along, but these are the main things I use. Maby one day i'll even finish something. So here are my go-to resources & tutorials; I'm posting it here for safekeeping, and hopefully others will find it helpful. Everything that's listed is here free. So many wonderful things for free under the cut.
Programs – General:
Creating: Blender. Blender Addons: 3D Print Toolbox – comes with blender, enable it from within the program. Originally for 3d printing. Good for fixing flipped normals, and some quick general repairs. Source Tools And source tools wiki – for exporting as SMD!!!! (SimPe: to enable bump maps for the mesh on import). GMDC Addon for Blender 4.0+ by Nopke.
GIMP. GIMP Addons: G'MIC-Qt. Resynthesizer. Nvidia dds?. Doesn’t it come with Gimp?
Other: Nvidia Texture Tools Exporter (iirc it works with all graphic cards that are compatible, doesn’t require Nvidia). For making Normal / Bump / Cube Maps. For high quality compression.
NormalMaps - Online, For making all types of maps, has good setting menus. A very cool tool.
Converting: Umodel, for Unreal Engine (Static meshes: export as gtlf.2. Animated meshes: export as psk. Requires Add-on). AssetStudio, for Unity. AC Viewer, self implied (+ USD Addon for blender). QuickBMS* and support forum, for basically everything else. (don't forget the required scrips, down the same page). *I haven’t tested it fully yet, but it was recommended here. A tutorial for it is listed further down. Works like a charm.
UV Mapping: UV Mapper, Classic (free) and the most recent Demo (for visualization).
Programs – Sims:
Never Mind the Bollox, Here's Osab and MAGIkarp to the rescue!
Latest version of SimPe, works with a non-default installation path. Chris Hatch's updates.
Home Crafter installation, Post by Huge Lunatic at Sims2Artists.
Repository Wizard, by Pick'N'Mix Mods. A game changer.
DBPF Compare, by Pick'N'Mix Mods.
Object Relocator, also by Pick'N'Mix Mods.
SMD Tools, by Lazy Duchess.
The Compressorizer, by JFade – Lazy Duchess's edit.
Bulk Rename Utility, to change file names in well, bulk. As explained by io here.
Lot Adjustor, by Mootilda at MTS.
Tutorials:
Override the game's graphic settings via Nvidia, as explained by iCad. The settings to Nvidia Profile Inspector she linked to at MTS have been deleted for some reason, here they are via WebArchive.
Meshing in Blender:
Mesh Optimization Info (and links), by Crisps&Kerosene.
Additional - Reducing Polycount:
Tutorial, by Flaming-Chickens (another username on other sites perhaps?)
Edge – Un-subdivide, a quick one by CG Link.
Transfer high poly details to low poly object in Blender, by 3Dnot2D.
Shrinkwrap Modifier - Blender Tutorial for Beginners - Basics, by in2vert.
Placeholder for this Addon that I want to try but haven't found, something for AR that was on facebook's defunct AR.
Scaling tips, by Blender Secrets.
How to fix inverted/ flipped normals, by ipaintsmallthings.
Converting: How to Extract 3D Models, Textures, Music from Unreal Engine Games, by iwanMods.
Extract 2D/3D/SFX Unity Assets fast & easy from your Unity Game, by iwanMods as well.
How to use QuickBMS, by darkhorse.
Guide to Converting 3t2 and 4t2 Part 01 and Part 02, by Chiaroscuro/tenlittlepandas.
Converting TS4 Windows and Doors, by Crisps&Kerosene.
Using Different Material Maps as Shading/Details for Base Texture, in Gimp or Blender, by Pineapple Forest & Crisps&Kerosene: https://www.tumblr.com/crispsandkerosene/764893644571525120/great-info-thats-the-reason-some-conversions?source=share
Texture Editing in GIMP:
Using Gimp Add-ons: G'MicQT. Resynthesizer. Both by Davies Media Design. This guy's channel for Gimp in general – here's a good one to begin with. And another one about layer masks.
Making a texture Tile Seamless: 1. My favorite - How to Make Seamless Textures for Cinema 4D - 3 Levels of Photoshop Wizardry using iPhone Photos, by School of Motion.
2. Simple Trick for More Realistic Texture Patterns in GIMP, by Davies Media Design – Quick and simple, using the Resynthesizer plugin. Good for patterns.
Making walls in SimPe out of a square texture, with minimal quality loss. To be written.
SimPe: Cloneable Objects: A List of Good Objects for Cloning, by IgnorantBliss at MTS.
Huge Lunatic's Tutorials, Her website.
Object Creation for Absolute Beginners, by Moune.
Sims 2 start to finish Object Creation Tutorial, by JWoods, Numenor, Lethe_s & IgnorantBliss.
The Material Definition (TXMT) Guide, by PixelHate – very comprehensive. Part 5 is about Bump/ Normal maps.
Null (Texture-less) Groups, by Skell. For bodyshop, for Objects see an elaboration by Midge the Tree below.
Crisps&Kerosene discovered how to add specular maps to objects! It's incredible there are still new things to discover in this ancient game.
More on Specular Maps, by Pineapple Forest.
Making new flooring & walls with SimPE, by Charisa. Includes adding Bump/Normal maps. She added a file to clone from in the comments below. It works for normal maps as well. Here's cool discovery in the game files.
Expanding footprint: a mini tutorial, by Deedee.
How to add correct drop shadows to objects, by Yuxi, via Wayback Machine.
Making Objects Viewable in Neighborhood View, by iCad.
Making Objects Visible In Build/Buy Mode, Invisible In Live Mode, by Midge the Tree.
Making Seasons-Friendly Trees, by Echo.
Io/ Serabiet's resources list, mainly for Bodyshop but not just.
Pineapple Forest's Tutorials, useful tips for efficiency and optimization.
MTS modding forum in General.
The Sims 2 Tutorials, on Tumblr. A database, is more updated.
Sims2Artists tutorials section.
LeeFish modding forum.
Garden of Shadows, Tree of Knowledge section.
Troubleshooting: What to do if you get a System.OutOfMemoryException Error, SimPe Forum, via WayBack Machine. Thank you @fanseelamb for the find.
How to read object error logs: I just want to know what causes it!!, by Episims.
Common TS2 errors, by Midge the Tree.
General game fuckery: How to Stop Sims 2 Crashing (Memory Allocation Fix and 4GB Patch Repair), by Jessa.
Graphics card problems, LeeFish forum.
Graphics help - DIY, by Kiri. How to fix faulty Texture Memory allocation, and the problems that stem from it. Tumblr can't handle anymore hyper links so here it is: https://celebkiriedhel.tumblr.com/post/189431721483/graphics-help-diy
General: Switching between save folders without renaming them, by Nopke.
Resources:
3D Models Online*: Various furniture designers' websites: Porada, Zanotta, Muuto, Hay, Poltrona Frau, many luxury furniture designer basically.
3D Warehouse, belongs to Sketchfab (get the Collada files).
Scan the World.
Wikimedia Commons. And more.
*(NOT OPTIMIZED).
Textures: Architextures.
Fabrics & Wallpapers: Natural Stones: Wall Plasters:
iCad's Woods. Shastakiss's Cluedo Metals, Yeti Metals, Pirate Woods. Goat's Woods.
Textures from other games: Dishonored, Thieve and much more, by Saricoya at GoS. Dreamfell by io.
Resource sharing threads at Garden of Shadows.
SimPe - General: CEP Extras list, HugeLunatic at Sims2Artists.
TXMT settings for different materials, by Hafiseazale.
Extended SimStandardMaterial Shader for the Sims 2 + Optionally Brighter Sims, by Crisps&Kerosene.
Custom CubeMaps, by Crisps&Kerosene.
Shiny TXMT Settings & Cube Maps Packs, by Pineapple Forest.
Build/ Buy: Templates for Recoloring Maxis items; MTS Templates sction, Hafiseazale (+cc), ZeroDark.
Template for Seasonal Trees, Gwenke at Sims2Artists.
Making Roof Recolors, Tutorial & template by Numenor, great template by iCad.
Pack for making food clutter usable, by DeeDee.
CAS: Default Makeup Packages - BYO Packages, by Huge Lunatic.
Body shape, Io/Serabiet on Tumblr.
Skin template, Io/Serabiet on Tumblr.
Hair texture, iCad.
Color Actions, Pooklet on Tumblr.
That's it for now.
Edit: forgot about CEP extras. Added more links. Edit 02: Added Troubleshooting section under tutorials.
This Blender manual has a good demonstration of projections & their effect on textures, here are a couple:
Understanding UV Mapping - How Map Projections Work.
Back to Geography with this one; I've seen in some places people say they don't like/understand UV Mapping or unwrapping. Well, I love mapping and had this video saved, It's short and light and explains very clearly how projections work. It helped me catch up on the issue. Unwrapping from what I understand, is basically the first part in the video where the guy is fighting the globe.
Look what I found! This tool is so good.
Found it through github, it produces all types of maps. Haven't seen it being mentioned anywhere... I used a Maxis floor as an example. It produced very nice results on images of floors I got online.
Resources for Creating: My Go-To things.
Update: I’ll be updating the list on this page from now on, since Tumblr can’t handle so many hyper-links in one post, on Dreamwidth - right here, so I won't have to update it multiple times. Please note: I keep updating this list, and updates aren't showing up on reblogs. Please check the original post for the most up to date list.
Sooo this is going to be a long comprehensive list. I got back to this game after a long time and with a different computer, with a dedicated graphics card, hurray! It made me want to return to making things, so while gathering back all the necessary stuff, I've complied this list. It might be is updated as I go along, but these are the main things I use. Maby one day i'll even finish something. So here are my go-to resources & tutorials; I'm posting it here for safekeeping, and hopefully others will find it helpful. Everything that's listed is here free. So many wonderful things for free under the cut.
Programs – General:
Creating: Blender. Blender Addons: 3D Print Toolbox – comes with blender, enable it from within the program. Originally for 3d printing. Good for fixing flipped normals, and some quick general repairs. Source Tools And source tools wiki – for exporting as SMD!!!! (SimPe: to enable bump maps for the mesh on import). GMDC Addon for Blender 4.0+ by Nopke.
GIMP. GIMP Addons: G'MIC-Qt. Resynthesizer. Nvidia dds?. Doesn’t it come with Gimp?
Other: Nvidia Texture Tools Exporter (iirc it works with all graphic cards that are compatible, doesn’t require Nvidia). For making Normal / Bump / Cube Maps. For high quality compression.
NormalMaps - Online, For making all types of maps, has good setting menus. A very cool tool.
Converting: Umodel, for Unreal Engine (Static meshes: export as gtlf.2. Animated meshes: export as psk. Requires Add-on). AssetStudio, for Unity. AC Viewer, self implied (+ USD Addon for blender). QuickBMS* and support forum, for basically everything else. (don't forget the required scrips, down the same page). *I haven’t tested it fully yet, but it was recommended here. A tutorial for it is listed further down. Works like a charm.
UV Mapping: UV Mapper, Classic (free) and the most recent Demo (for visualization).
Programs – Sims:
Never Mind the Bollox, Here's Osab and MAGIkarp to the rescue!
Latest version of SimPe, works with a non-default installation path. Chris Hatch's updates.
Home Crafter installation, Post by Huge Lunatic at Sims2Artists.
Repository Wizard, by Pick'N'Mix Mods. A game changer.
DBPF Compare, by Pick'N'Mix Mods.
Object Relocator, also by Pick'N'Mix Mods.
SMD Tools, by Lazy Duchess.
The Compressorizer, by JFade – Lazy Duchess's edit.
Bulk Rename Utility, to change file names in well, bulk. As explained by io here.
Lot Adjustor, by Mootilda at MTS.
Tutorials:
Override the game's graphic settings via Nvidia, as explained by iCad. The settings to Nvidia Profile Inspector she linked to at MTS have been deleted for some reason, here they are via WebArchive.
Meshing in Blender:
Mesh Optimization Info (and links), by Crisps&Kerosene.
Additional - Reducing Polycount:
Tutorial, by Flaming-Chickens (another username on other sites perhaps?)
Edge – Un-subdivide, a quick one by CG Link.
Transfer high poly details to low poly object in Blender, by 3Dnot2D.
Shrinkwrap Modifier - Blender Tutorial for Beginners - Basics, by in2vert.
Placeholder for this Addon that I want to try but haven't found, something for AR that was on facebook's defunct AR.
Scaling tips, by Blender Secrets.
How to fix inverted/ flipped normals, by ipaintsmallthings.
Converting: How to Extract 3D Models, Textures, Music from Unreal Engine Games, by iwanMods.
Extract 2D/3D/SFX Unity Assets fast & easy from your Unity Game, by iwanMods as well.
How to use QuickBMS, by darkhorse.
Guide to Converting 3t2 and 4t2 Part 01 and Part 02, by Chiaroscuro/tenlittlepandas.
Converting TS4 Windows and Doors, by Crisps&Kerosene.
Using Different Material Maps as Shading/Details for Base Texture, in Gimp or Blender, by Pineapple Forest & Crisps&Kerosene: https://www.tumblr.com/crispsandkerosene/764893644571525120/great-info-thats-the-reason-some-conversions?source=share
Texture Editing in GIMP:
Using Gimp Add-ons: G'MicQT. Resynthesizer. Both by Davies Media Design. This guy's channel for Gimp in general – here's a good one to begin with. And another one about layer masks.
Making a texture Tile Seamless: 1. My favorite - How to Make Seamless Textures for Cinema 4D - 3 Levels of Photoshop Wizardry using iPhone Photos, by School of Motion.
2. Simple Trick for More Realistic Texture Patterns in GIMP, by Davies Media Design – Quick and simple, using the Resynthesizer plugin. Good for patterns.
Making walls in SimPe out of a square texture, with minimal quality loss. To be written.
SimPe: Cloneable Objects: A List of Good Objects for Cloning, by IgnorantBliss at MTS.
Huge Lunatic's Tutorials, Her website.
Object Creation for Absolute Beginners, by Moune.
Sims 2 start to finish Object Creation Tutorial, by JWoods, Numenor, Lethe_s & IgnorantBliss.
The Material Definition (TXMT) Guide, by PixelHate – very comprehensive. Part 5 is about Bump/ Normal maps.
Null (Texture-less) Groups, by Skell. For bodyshop, for Objects see an elaboration by Midge the Tree below.
Crisps&Kerosene discovered how to add specular maps to objects! It's incredible there are still new things to discover in this ancient game.
More on Specular Maps, by Pineapple Forest.
Making new flooring & walls with SimPE, by Charisa. Includes adding Bump/Normal maps. She added a file to clone from in the comments below. It works for normal maps as well. Here's cool discovery in the game files.
Expanding footprint: a mini tutorial, by Deedee.
How to add correct drop shadows to objects, by Yuxi, via Wayback Machine.
Making Objects Viewable in Neighborhood View, by iCad.
Making Objects Visible In Build/Buy Mode, Invisible In Live Mode, by Midge the Tree.
Making Seasons-Friendly Trees, by Echo.
Io/ Serabiet's resources list, mainly for Bodyshop but not just.
Pineapple Forest's Tutorials, useful tips for efficiency and optimization.
MTS modding forum in General.
The Sims 2 Tutorials, on Tumblr. A database, is more updated.
Sims2Artists tutorials section.
LeeFish modding forum.
Garden of Shadows, Tree of Knowledge section.
Troubleshooting: What to do if you get a System.OutOfMemoryException Error, SimPe Forum, via WayBack Machine. Thank you @fanseelamb for the find.
How to read object error logs: I just want to know what causes it!!, by Episims.
Common TS2 errors, by Midge the Tree.
General game fuckery: How to Stop Sims 2 Crashing (Memory Allocation Fix and 4GB Patch Repair), by Jessa.
Graphics card problems, LeeFish forum.
Graphics help - DIY, by Kiri. How to fix faulty Texture Memory allocation, and the problems that stem from it. Tumblr can't handle anymore hyper links so here it is: https://celebkiriedhel.tumblr.com/post/189431721483/graphics-help-diy
General: Switching between save folders without renaming them, by Nopke.
Resources:
3D Models Online*: Various furniture designers' websites: Porada, Zanotta, Muuto, Hay, Poltrona Frau, many luxury furniture designer basically.
3D Warehouse, belongs to Sketchfab (get the Collada files).
Scan the World.
Wikimedia Commons. And more.
*(NOT OPTIMIZED).
Textures: Architextures.
Fabrics & Wallpapers: Natural Stones: Wall Plasters:
iCad's Woods. Shastakiss's Cluedo Metals, Yeti Metals, Pirate Woods. Goat's Woods.
Textures from other games: Dishonored, Thieve and much more, by Saricoya at GoS. Dreamfell by io.
Resource sharing threads at Garden of Shadows.
SimPe - General: CEP Extras list, HugeLunatic at Sims2Artists.
TXMT settings for different materials, by Hafiseazale.
Extended SimStandardMaterial Shader for the Sims 2 + Optionally Brighter Sims, by Crisps&Kerosene.
Custom CubeMaps, by Crisps&Kerosene.
Shiny TXMT Settings & Cube Maps Packs, by Pineapple Forest.
Build/ Buy: Templates for Recoloring Maxis items; MTS Templates sction, Hafiseazale (+cc), ZeroDark.
Template for Seasonal Trees, Gwenke at Sims2Artists.
Making Roof Recolors, Tutorial & template by Numenor, great template by iCad.
Pack for making food clutter usable, by DeeDee.
CAS: Default Makeup Packages - BYO Packages, by Huge Lunatic.
Body shape, Io/Serabiet on Tumblr.
Skin template, Io/Serabiet on Tumblr.
Hair texture, iCad.
Color Actions, Pooklet on Tumblr.
That's it for now.
Edit: forgot about CEP extras. Added more links. Edit 02: Added Troubleshooting section under tutorials.
*UPDATE* List of Asian Sims 2 Sites With Working Downloads
Here is a list of sites (163, Daum, NAVER, etc.) that have Sims 2 downloads available as of February 2017. Not all downloads on the site may work, but if there was at least one then I added it to the list. My old list is almost two years out of date so here is an update! Unfortunately some of those blogs are now dead too, but I can also add a few. If you need any help downloading feel free to ask away! So! Here’s the list, in alphabetical order, sorted by host:
163 (Chinese language):
- 222, 37, AIKA, Daislia, The Doll’s Town, Esor Sims, Helena, Kyara/Clover, Laeris, Ran
Blog.me (Korean language):
Cazy, Cranberry, ELISSU, Haniyuyu, Luo, Mori, MYOS, PLIN, RUSTY, Siaorang, Tomang Homme, Yoosims
Blogspot (English language):
502508, Maysa, N-K, Pinty, SimsSM, SioSims, Totoasims, TsuKa
Daum (Korean language):
Alicelove, Amily, Avika, BELL, Berry, Bobo, Dream, FahJung, Grayish, Heinz, Janita, Kawaiirei, Kraris, Louis, Maynarakmak, Menijung, NaerxNaer, Nely, Papa Gizmo, Pepa, Rose, SAU
FC2 (Japanese language):
1080, 11 Rabbit, GIGO, Hyacinth, Mercury Sims, Midnight Garage, Minga, Momoka, Motoi Sims, P Sister F, Pirinporin, Si5, Sims Rocket Coaster, Vera’s Atelier, Vertiges, Yume Maboroshi
Geocities (Japanese language):
GARA, Ton Sim
Jimdo (English language):
Hedman, JanMaSa
Naver (Korean Language):
A+S=Error, Acqu, Ang, Ariella, Asha, AvikaPang, BELL, Berry, Blue1489, Blue Lemon, Calvin Cao, Chabiiz, Crystalsims, Ehrpzla, Emgle, Enjoy Kiss, Feliojen, Ferris, Guy, Guzzhang, Hohoemi, Ilazys, Imziiz, Jaeeunp, JAPAN, Jiny, Karr, Kasu, Kawaiirei, KimJ, Kuku, LINDA, LuXon, Maynarakmak, Mjizombie, Momoring, MYOS, Narusia, Papiko, Paryun, Pingoz, Potae, Reichi, Rinlin, Rongmong, Royalblues87, SAOKI, Sizz, Slutty Ellie, Snow Flower, SORAbear, SpongKeku, TDN, Tealeafs, TJIN, WafflEploy, Xod, xxxholyshit, Yeondang, YOOSHIN, Yul.E, ZIONWARD
SINA (Chinese language):
Luna, YF
Tistory (Korean language):
Black-le, Cerebella, Crayonsama
Xuite (Chinese language):
Abby, Ruby
Yam (Chinese language):
Hina, Tsing Sims, Yoriann
Other hosts:
BabbyebeSims, Blue Chilipepper, Dedital Sheep Bower, DeepSpaceUnder, Elton, Juna, JuNECHi, Karas, Keto, MayPink, Melo, MTSims Cakestore, SimpleLife, Sims2Heaven, Sims in Cider, XMSims