Patch

Taken from Wikipedia:
Computer games receive patches to fix compatibility problems after their initial release just like any other software, but they can also be applied to change game rules or algorithms. These patches may be prompted by the discovery of exploits in the multiplayer game experience that can be used to gain unfair advantages over other players. Extra features and game play tweaks can often be added. These kinds of patches are common in first-person shooters with multiplayer capability, and in MMORPGs. MMORPGs, which are typically very complex with large amounts of content, almost always rely heavily on patches following the initial release, where patches sometimes add new content and abilities available to players. Because the balance and fairness for all players of an MMORPG can be severely corrupted within a short amount of time by an exploit, servers of an MMORPG are sometimes taken down with short notice in order to apply a critical patch with a fix.

To get to individual patch pages, please use the navigation table at the bottom of the page.

The Sims

An expansion pack would usually address issues that arose in previous expansions. However, Hot Date, Unleashed and Deluxe each got a separate update.

• The Sims game updates

Each of these updates were included in later expansion packs. Players with Superstar, Makin' Magic, or The Sims Complete Collection do not need any of these updates. Players with Unleashed, but nothing later, do not need the Hot Date or Deluxe updates. Players with both Deluxe and Hot Date do not need the Hot Date update

The Sims 2

The Sims 2 featured an in-game notification system where a player connected to the internet was told if a new version of their expansion packs was found. EA released only one update for each expansion pack and one for the Family Fun Stuff Pack. Each patch was independent of each other and not cumulative.

• The Sims 2 game updates

The Sims 3

With The Sims 3 EA is releasing updates more frequently than previous games, even between expansion releases. The Sims 3 is a hugely complex game and bugs or glitches are bound to happen. The EADM (Electronic Arts Download Manager) comes with the game and if players use the Launcher to start the game, will be notified of any new updates. Every new patch players will need to install a seperate patch for every expansion and stuff pack they have. The Sims 3 patches have not only fixed bugs, but also added or improved on excisting gameplay features or interface elements for the base game.