In The Sims 4: Island Living expansion, players can explore the beautiful, sun-drenched world of Sulani and discover all sorts of secrets beneath the waves. One of the most magical features of this expansion is the ability for your Sim to become a mermaid. This transformation is made possible through a special item known as Mermadic Kelp. Understanding how Mermadic Kelp works, where to find it, and how to use it effectively can unlock a whole new gameplay experience. From shimmering tails to aquatic powers, mermaid Sims bring unique interactions and a fresh layer of fantasy to your game.
What Is Mermadic Kelp in The Sims 4?
Mermadic Kelp is a consumable item introduced in The Sims 4: Island Living expansion pack. When eaten by a Sim, it grants them the ability to transform into a mermaid. Unlike vampires or spellcasters, mermaids do not require skill trees or extensive training; the transformation is instant after consumption and a brief dip in the ocean. Mermadic Kelp is central to the mermaid gameplay, making it an essential item for players looking to explore the mystical side of Sulani.
How to Obtain Mermadic Kelp
There are multiple ways to acquire Mermadic Kelp in the game, and players can choose the method that fits their preferred style of gameplay. Whether through exploration, building relationships, or using cheats, here are the common methods:
- Exploration: Dive into the ocean in Sulani. Sims with higher Fitness or Scuba Diving skills may find Mermadic Kelp while exploring underwater caves.
- Reward Store: Mermadic Kelp can be purchased from the Rewards Store for 500 satisfaction points, making it accessible through normal gameplay progression.
- Mermaid Sims: If you already have a mermaid in the household, they might give a piece of Mermadic Kelp to another Sim through friendly interactions.
- Debug or Cheats: For players who don’t mind using cheats, Mermadic Kelp can be added to a Sim’s inventory using the debug mode or console commands.
Each method offers flexibility depending on how you want to engage with the expansion content.
How to Use Mermadic Kelp
Once you obtain Mermadic Kelp, using it is straightforward. Have your Sim select the Mermadic Kelp in their inventory and choose the ‘Eat’ interaction. After consumption, a message will appear indicating that the Sim feels a strange tingly sensation. This is your cue that the transformation process has begun.
To complete the change into a mermaid, your Sim must swim in ocean water within 24 in-game hours after eating the kelp. Simply heading into the sea around Sulani will trigger the full transformation. Once transformed, the Sim will sprout a colorful mermaid tail while swimming and gain access to unique mermaid abilities.
Important Notes on Usage
- Only young adult and older Sims can become mermaids through Mermadic Kelp.
- If your Sim does not swim within 24 hours of eating the kelp, the effect wears off and they’ll need to eat it again.
- Mermaid status is reversible if you eat another Mermadic Kelp while already a mermaid, which will turn the Sim back into a regular human.
Mermaid Abilities and Gameplay Features
After transformation, mermaid Sims gain access to a variety of new powers and traits. These abilities make mermaid gameplay distinct and immersive:
- Siren’s Call: Lure other Sims into the ocean with a hypnotic call, often used for mischief or storytelling.
- Aquatic Lure: A great tool for fishing; mermaids can attract fish to their location, increasing fishing success.
- Summon Ocean Threat: A powerful and sometimes dangerous interaction that showcases the strength of a mermaid Sim.
- Mermaid’s Kiss: Grants another Sim the ability to breathe underwater for a time, useful in diving activities.
In addition to powers, mermaid Sims have unique needs. Instead of a Hygiene need, they have a ‘Hydration’ bar that is fulfilled by swimming or taking baths. Failing to maintain hydration can cause discomfort or even danger to your Sim’s wellbeing.
Appearance and Customization
Becoming a mermaid also unlocks new customization options in Create-a-Sim (CAS). You can choose different tail colors, scales, and accessories like seashell tops or aquatic-themed hairstyles. These cosmetic changes only apply when your Sim is in mermaid form, which activates automatically when swimming.
Where Does Mermadic Kelp Fit in the Game’s Lore?
The Sims 4: Island Living doesn’t have a strict storyline, but the presence of mermaids and Mermadic Kelp contributes to the mythical, Polynesian-inspired lore of Sulani. Mermadic Kelp is seen as a mystical sea plant, possibly enchanted or passed down by ancient sea spirits. The locals treat mermaids with reverence, and some hidden areas suggest a deeper connection between mermaids and Sulani’s ecosystem.
This light-touch lore adds depth for players who enjoy storytelling and roleplaying. Whether you imagine your Sim as a sea guardian or a rebellious siren, Mermadic Kelp is the key that unlocks their journey.
Building a Mermaid Lifestyle
Mermaids in The Sims 4 can live like any other Sims holding jobs, raising families, or even becoming celebrities. However, their connection to the ocean means that some lifestyles naturally suit them better. Consider building an off-grid house near the beach, focusing on wellness, nature, and conservation careers. These paths align well with mermaid Sims and create engaging narratives.
Reversing the Mermaid Transformation
If you want your Sim to return to a normal human, the process is surprisingly simple. Eating another Mermadic Kelp while already a mermaid will prompt your Sim to relinquish their mermaid form. There are no major penalties or side effects. Once reverted, the Sim loses access to mermaid abilities, and their Hydration need returns to Hygiene.
This flexibility allows players to experiment freely with different life states and supernatural themes without locking their Sims into one path permanently.
Mermadic Kelp in The Sims 4: Island Living is more than just an item it’s a gateway to one of the game’s most enchanting life states. Whether you’re exploring the mysteries of Sulani, customizing your mermaid Sim with vibrant tails and oceanic styles, or diving into deep waters for fish and fun, Mermadic Kelp is the starting point of an unforgettable journey. It’s easy to obtain, fun to use, and adds layers of magical content to the game. Whether you’re roleplaying a serene sea dweller or a mischievous siren, the possibilities are endless when your Sim takes that first bite of Mermadic Kelp.