Introduction
After reading my article on installing and playing Minecraft using Ubuntu, a reader asked whether it was possible to play other games using Ubuntu such as "The Sims" and "Civilisation".I have written articles previously showing how to use PlayOnLinux to install classic Windows and DOS games. The user in question was having issues with a missing file error so it made me wonder whether there was a problem that I could resolve.
I therefore decided to try out "The Sims" to see if I could install it and play it on a computer running Ubuntu.
The version I am using is "The Sims 3" which I bought on CD a couple of years ago and I haven't really found time to play it yet.
Install PlayOnLinux
Open the Software Centre by clicking the icon on the launcher that looks like a folder with an "A" on it or by pressing the super key (Windows key) on your keyboard and search for "Software Centre".
Once you have the Software Centre open use the search box in the top right corner to find "PlayOnLinux" and then click "Install".
You can also use the terminal to install PlayOnLinux. The quickest way to open a terminal window in Ubuntu is to press CTRL, Alt and T at the same time.
Within the terminal window type the following:
sudo apt-get update && sudo apt-get install playonlinux
Install The Sims
First things first, place the CD in the drive and open PlayOnLinux.
Click "Install a program".
Generally you would edit an existing one if you have made a mistake.
Click "Install a program in a new virtual drive" and then click "Next"
Click "Next".
I always leave all this stuff until after the installation.
Click "Next".
The version of The Sims I am using is "The Sims 3" which was released as a 32-bit binary and therefore I chose to create the 32-bit Windows Installation.
Click "Next".
If you aren't installing from CD click the "Select another file" and navigate to the location of the installer.
If you have a CD click on the CD-ROM and click "Next".
Choose your setup language and click "OK".
(You have read them first though haven't you. I mean, we all read the terms and conditions. They are incredibly important after all).
Click "Next".
I chose the "Typical Installation".
Click "Next".
I never say yes to these things but if you want to check the box.
Click "Next".
Yet more questions. Do you want to install the latest download manager?
Again I chose no as I'm not sure how well this would work using PlayOnLinux. Click "Next".
The Sims has now been installed but there are still a few more steps before you can play it.
Click "Finish".
Click "Next"
To fix this from within PlayOnLinux, select Configuration from the toolbar. When the configuration screen opens click the "WINE" tab.
Check the "Emulate a virtual desktop" checkbox and then enter the screen resolution for your monitor.
You can find your screen resolution information by clicking the settings icon on the launcher (cog and spanner).From within the configuration settings select "Screen Display".
Your screen resolution will be displayed.
After setting the screen resolution, click "Ok" to finish configuring WINE.
Summary
I have played the game a few times in the past few days and I have been able to load and save games flawlessly and play without any errors.
I hope this guide helped and thankyou for reading.
Another Great Free Roleplaying Game
The good news is that the games are all free to play. November's game is GoodGame Empire.
Become the lord of a castle and turn your small fortress into the
capital of the entire kingdom in this exciting online strategy game.
Establish a mighty army to defend your realm and extend your territory.
Forge alliances with other players worldwide to crush your enemies, and
become the sole ruler of a mighty empire!
GOODGAME EMPIRE OFFERS:
- Become the lord of a castle and turn your small fortress into the capital of the entire kingdom in this exciting online strategy game.
- Establish a mighty army to defend your realm and extend your territory.
- Forge alliances with other players worldwide to crush your enemies, and become the sole ruler of a mighty empire.
- Combat against other players and an alliance system
- A dynamic world map Strategic battles using various units and siege tools
- The ability to upgrade your castle with numerous buildings
- Resource Outposts for securing more supplies
- An entertaining campaign with missions and attractive rewards
