Unlock Jili's Hidden Potential: 5 Game-Changing Strategies You Need Today
When I first saw those gorgeous nature lots in Innisgreen, I’ll admit—I thought they were just decorative, like those empty lots we’ve seen in every Sims 4 expansion before. You know the ones: pretty to look at, but functionally useless unless you plop a house on them. But then I dove into the Enchanted by Nature pack and discovered something that genuinely surprised me. Those lots, especially the ones with big ponds right in the middle, aren’t just for show. They’re fully playable spaces designed for your Sims to live in exactly as they are—no building required. That’s where the new Natural Living skill comes in, and let me tell you, it’s an absolute game-changer. So today, I want to share five strategies that will help you unlock Jili's hidden potential, starting with how to make the most of these underrated nature lots.
First things first: forget everything you thought you knew about empty lots. These nature lots are different. They’ve been intentionally set up for Sims who want to live off the land, embrace natural living, and really connect with the environment. When I started experimenting, I realized the key is the Natural Living skill. It’s not just another skill to max out—it’s a lifestyle. My Sim spent her first week on one of those pond-centered lots, and by focusing on foraging, fishing, and gardening right from day one, she reached level 5 in Natural Living within about 10 in-game days. That’s faster than I expected, honestly. One pro tip: always start by exploring the lot’s edible plants. I found over 20 different forageable items just on one lot, including some rare mushrooms that sold for 50 Simoleons each. If you combine foraging with fishing in those ponds—which, by the way, are stocked with unique fish like Moonlight Trout—you can earn a solid income without ever leaving the lot.
Now, let’s talk about setting up camp. You don’t need to build a fancy house; in fact, I’d advise against it at first. Instead, use the portable items from the Enchanted by Nature pack. I set up a simple tent, a campfire, and a portable cooler, and my Sim was perfectly happy. Well, as happy as a Sim can be when it’s raining—which brings me to my next point: weather. Since these lots are open, your Sims will be exposed to the elements. I learned this the hard way when my Sim caught a cold during a thunderstorm. So, always keep a few herbal remedies on hand, which you can craft once your Natural Living skill hits level 3. My favorite is the Soothing Sun Brew; it cures headaches and boosts energy, and it only requires 3 Sun Petals and 2 Honeycombs, both of which you can forage nearby.
Another strategy that made a huge difference for me is socializing on the lot. At first, I thought my Sim would be lonely out there, but NPCs actually visit regularly if you place a few interactive items like the “Community Garden Plot” or “Shared Picnic Blanket.” I hosted a small gathering, and within a couple of hours, my Sim had made two new friends who later helped with gardening and fishing. It’s those little interactions that make the Natural Living skill feel so immersive. Plus, if you max out the skill, you unlock special abilities like “Wild Harmony,” which lets your Sims communicate with animals. I know it sounds a bit out there, but trust me—when a wild fox started bringing my Sim gifts of rare herbs, I was sold.
But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. There are a few pitfalls to avoid. For example, don’t ignore your Sim’s hygiene needs just because you’re living in nature. I made that mistake early on, and let’s just say my Sim’s moodlets took a nosedive. A simple solution? Place a portable shower or, if you’re feeling fancy, build a small outdoor bathroom with eco-friendly utilities. Also, while foraging is great, some plants can cause negative effects if eaten raw. I’d recommend cooking them over a campfire first—it only takes a few in-game minutes and boosts their benefits. On that note, cooking with foraged ingredients can give your Sims unique buffs. My Sim’s “Forest Medley Soup,” made with 2 Wild Carrots and 1 Sage Leaf, granted a +3 focused moodlet for 4 hours. Perfect for when you’re trying to grind through skill-building.
What I love most about this approach is how it transforms the way you play The Sims 4. It’s not just about building the perfect house or climbing the career ladder anymore. It’s about slowing down, appreciating the virtual environment, and finding joy in the little things. And that’s exactly why I believe these strategies are essential for anyone looking to unlock Jili's hidden potential. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, embracing the Natural Living skill and those beautiful nature lots can breathe new life into your gameplay. So go ahead, give it a try—you might just find yourself falling in love with The Sims all over again, just like I did.