How to Fix Sims 3 There Was an Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

The Sims 3 is a popular life simulation game that many players enjoy on Windows 11. Sometimes, users encounter an error message simply stating “There was an error” when trying to launch or play the game. This can be frustrating, especially if you just want to dive into gameplay.

Fortunately, this error is usually fixable with a few straightforward steps. The solutions range from simple checks to more detailed fixes.

In this guide, you will find easy-to-follow instructions to resolve the error and get back to enjoying The Sims 3 on your Windows 11 PC.

Each step includes explanations so you understand why it helps, making troubleshooting smoother and less confusing.

Quick Note Before You Start

Make sure your Windows 11 system meets the minimum requirements for The Sims 3.
Check that your game is fully updated to the latest official version or patch.
Confirm you have a valid and activated copy of The Sims 3.
Close any background applications that might interfere with the game, such as antivirus or system optimizers.

Step 1: Run The Sims 3 as Administrator

Sometimes, Windows restricts access to certain files or resources that The Sims 3 needs to run properly. Running the game as an administrator gives it the necessary permissions.

Right-click the Sims 3 shortcut or executable file.
Select Properties.
Go to the Compatibility tab.
Check the box that says Run this program as an administrator.
Click Apply and then OK.
Try launching the game again.

This step helps because Windows 11 has stricter user account controls that might block game files without admin rights.

Step 2: Update Your Graphics Drivers

Outdated or incompatible graphics drivers often cause errors in games. Keeping drivers updated ensures the game can use your hardware correctly.

Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
Expand the Display adapters section.
Right-click your graphics card and choose Update driver.
Select Search automatically for updated driver software.
Follow on-screen instructions if an update is found.
Restart your PC after updating.
Launch The Sims 3 to check if the error is resolved.

Graphics drivers connect Windows and your hardware, so keeping them current solves many game compatibility issues.

Step 3: Check Game File Integrity or Repair Installation

If files are missing or corrupted, The Sims 3 may fail to run properly. Repairing the installation can fix this problem.

If you are using Origin or EA App:

Open Origin or EA App.
Go to your Game Library.
Right-click The Sims 3 and select Repair or Verify.
Wait for the process to complete.
Try launching the game again.

This process checks all game files and replaces any that are damaged or missing.

Step 4: Disable Fullscreen Optimizations and Compatibility Mode

Windows 11 includes features like fullscreen optimizations that sometimes interfere with older games.

Right-click on the Sims 3 executable file or shortcut.
Select Properties.
Go to the Compatibility tab.
Check Disable fullscreen optimizations.
Also, ensure Run this program in compatibility mode is unchecked.
Click Apply and OK.
Launch the game to see if the error persists.

Disabling fullscreen optimizations prevents Windows from applying certain performance tweaks that might cause crashes.

Step 5: Update DirectX and Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables

The Sims 3 relies on certain system components like DirectX and Visual C++ libraries. Outdated or missing versions can cause errors.

Download the latest DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer from Microsoft’s website.
Run the installer and follow instructions.
Download the latest Microsoft Visual C++ Redistributables.
Install both the x86 and x64 versions if your system is 64-bit.
Restart your PC.
Try running The Sims 3 again.

These components provide essential runtime libraries and graphics APIs required by many games.

Step 6: Temporarily Disable Antivirus or Firewall

Sometimes, security software mistakenly blocks game files or internet connectivity needed by The Sims 3.

Temporarily turn off your antivirus or firewall software.
Try launching the game while the protection is disabled.
If the game runs, add The Sims 3 folder to the antivirus exclusion list.
Re-enable your antivirus/firewall after testing.

Disabling security programs is only for testing purposes, so be sure to enable them afterward.

Alternative Method: Run the Game in Compatibility Mode for Windows 7 or 8

If the error continues, try running the game in compatibility mode for an earlier version of Windows.

Right-click the Sims 3 executable or shortcut.
Choose Properties > Compatibility tab.
Check Run this program in compatibility mode for:
Select Windows 7 or Windows 8 from the dropdown.
Click Apply and then OK.
Launch the game.

This forces Windows 11 to emulate an environment that matches older Windows versions where The Sims 3 was originally designed to run.

FAQs

Q: Why does The Sims 3 show “There was an error” on Windows 11?

A: It usually happens due to compatibility issues, corrupted game files, missing permissions, or outdated drivers and system components.

Q: Can I play The Sims 3 on Windows 11 without problems?

A: Yes, but you may need to apply fixes like those listed here because Windows 11 has stricter security and compatibility settings.

Q: Is it safe to disable antivirus when troubleshooting?

A: It’s safe only for a short time while testing. Always re-enable antivirus after testing and add game folders to exclusions if needed.

Q: Do I need to reinstall the game if these steps don’t work?

A: Not immediately. Try repair options and compatibility fixes first. Reinstalling is a last resort.

Q: Where can I get official help if nothing works?

A: Visit the official EA Help website or The Sims 3 support forums for assistance.

When Nothing Works

If you have tried all the steps above and The Sims 3 still shows “There was an error” on Windows 11, consider these final options:

Reinstall The Sims 3: Uninstall the game completely, restart your PC, and install it fresh.
Contact EA Support: Visit EA Help for The Sims 3 and submit a support ticket.
Check Community Forums: Sometimes other players share fixes specific to your hardware or system setup.
Consider Virtual Machines or Compatibility Layers: Advanced users might try running the game in a Windows 7 virtual machine if compatibility is a serious issue.

Conclusion

The Sims 3 error on Windows 11 can be fixed by following a series of simple troubleshooting steps. Starting with running the game as administrator and updating drivers often solves the problem quickly. Repairing game files and adjusting compatibility settings provide deeper fixes if needed.

Ensuring system components like DirectX and Visual C++ are updated is important for smooth gameplay. Always remember to test with antivirus disabled briefly to rule out interference.

If all else fails, reinstalling the game or reaching out to official support can help you get back to enjoying The Sims 3 without errors. With patience and these step-by-step solutions, you can overcome common issues and play your favorite life simulator on Windows 11.