User:SimDestroyer/Sandbox

The Sims 4
In The Sims 4, handiness is mostly used to repair broken objects in order to not spend money by replacing them, or by calling a repairman. Handiness also determines the quality of craftable items made with the woodworking table. Raising this skill is one of the main objectives of the Nerd Brain aspiration.

Learning
Handiness is raised by repairing and upgrading objects, as well as crafting sculptures or furniture at the woodworking table. Like with other skills, Sims can read skill books to raise their handiness. Sims who are focused will build their handiness skill faster, as well as repairing objects much quicker. Genius Sims tend to be focused more often than other Sims, making the trait to be perfect for leveling this skill. Sims who have mastered their handiness can mentor other Sims as well.

Repairing objects
Various objects such as televisions, toilets and sinks tend to break after numerous uses by Sims. A broken object is indicated by a visual cue such as stream of water, smoke or electrical sparks, depending on the type of the object. Repairs will always work no matter how low or high the Sims' handiness skill is, though having higher handiness will make these interaction go quicker. After a Sim has successfully repaired an object, they will gain a couple upgrade parts. A scrap pile will also appear, that Sims can scavenge to gain another part or two.

If a Sim with low handiness skills tries to repair an electronic object or is standing on top of a puddle of water, there is a higher chance of the Sim getting shocked. The Sim will get the "Seriously Fried" moodlet, which will give the +40 dazed emotion for 3 hours, and causes smoke to pour out of the Sim. If the Sim gets shocked again with the moodlet, they'll be immediately electrocuted and die. There is also a chance of the object the Sim was repairing catching fire.

Upgrading objects
Having a high handiness skill allows Sims to upgrade various objects, by improving their functionality and making them unbreakable. In order to upgrade objects, Sims must first have the required level and upgrade parts. Upgrade parts can be found while searching through the scrap piles left from repairing, or by breaking down and salvaging electronic objects. Sims can also purchase various upgrade parts from the computer after reaching level 2. It costs §10 to buy common upgrade parts, §30 for plumbing parts, §90 for kitchen parts and §120 for electronic parts.

Upgraded objects, while costing a small fortune, provide happy moodlets for Sims that can boost their current emotions, and can also add more functionalities to objects, such as new channels on the television.