Taking vacations in The Sims 2 is an entertaining feature that offers players the chance to interact with intriguing local characters. There are three unique travel spots: Three Lakes, Takemizu Village, and Twikkii Island. Each destination has its own set of non-player characters (NPCs), like Bigfoot, ninjas, a Wise Old Man, and a Witch Doctor. Some of these NPCs are easier to encounter, as they might appear randomly in public areas, while others are hidden and can be found using maps that you can acquire either during your trip or before you go.
Before you embark on your vacation, it’s essential to understand the game mechanics and limitations. First, ensure that the neighborhood is created via the Neighborhood Screen by selecting TS2: Bon Voyage in the upper left corner. A vacation setup requires an adult Sim, so you might find it challenging with households like the Newsons. Additionally, travel and accommodation can be quite expensive, so make sure you have enough simoleons to support your getaway for several days or even weeks.
Learn Ninja Teleportation
Only Approach Them When Cheerful
In Takemizu Village, you’ll find ninjas wandering around. Although they won’t pose a threat, they can be quite hard to catch. These ninjas often show up in public lots but move quickly, sometimes even using teleportation. If your Sim manages to catch one, the ninja will present a riddle. Your success in answering correctly often depends on your Sim’s current needs. If their needs are mostly satisfied, you’re likely to be rewarded. Conversely, if your Sim is feeling tired or cranky, the ninja may scold them before disappearing.
Since ninjas appear randomly, it’s wise to explore as many community lots as you can. You’re more likely to encounter them right when you first load into an area, rather than hours later in the day.
If the ninja is pleased, they will share the secret of teleportation. Your Sim can then teleport to any spot by simply clicking on the ground, creating a cloud of smoke. This ability can be utilized in Takemizu Village, at home, or on other lots within TS2.
How to Locate Maps to Hidden NPCs
Familiarize Yourself with the Route Home
Other interesting NPCs on vacation can be found in concealed areas and can be discovered through maps located on the ground or while on your trip. To find a map on the ground, click on an empty soil tile and select Dig for Treasure. If you’re at a lodge, engage a Tour Guide who is usually near a phone booth to ask for maps. While both methods are random, you can also use cheat codes in The Sims 2 to increase your chances of obtaining one of the following maps:
| Map | NPC | Vacation World |
|---|---|---|
| Hidden Burrow | Bigfoot | Three Lakes |
| Pagoda in the Shadows | Wise Old Man | Takemizu Village |
| Mysterious Hut | Witch Doctor | Twikkii Island |
When you’re in a specific world, the map holder can call a taxi to take them to the particular public lot indicated on the map. Keep in mind that these lots tend to be quite sparse, with limited facilities to meet basic needs like food or restroom access. Be sure your Sims are well-prepared and well-rested before exploring in TS2.
Each NPC you meet holds unique qualities that you can discover through interactions in The Sims 2. For instance, if your relationship with Bigfoot reaches a score of 100, you can invite him to move in with you, despite his unusual nature. The Wise Old Man may seem quiet at first, but if you offer him tea, he can teach your Sim tai chi. On the other hand, the Witch Doctor offers voodoo dolls that can either harm or control other Sims, but using a voodoo doll against the Witch Doctor can lead to unexpected repercussions.
