"The Sims 4" is the fourth installment of EA Maxis' popular life simulation, and just as in real life, players often cut corners to make things a little easier for their Sims. Those who know the right "cheats" can refill their bank account and acquire all kinds of magic powers just by typing in the right command.

Typically, activating cheats is done by holding down the "Ctrl," "Shift" and "C" keys at the same time. A box will open and prompt you to enter the magic phrase.

In the virtual realm, however, there is a difference between a small accommodation and some heavy-handed trickery. For some of the more advanced commands, a player must first activate the so-called "Testing Cheats" mode.

Doing that is pretty straightforward, as Carl's Sims 4 Guide explains. Just type in "testingcheats on" in the command box, and you should get a "Cheats Enabled" message on your screen. If you do not, try alternatives such as "testingcheats 1," "testingcheats true" or "testingcheats yes."

Once you have successfully enabled the mode, some entertaining tricks will be at your disposal. Here are some of the highlights:

  • By shift-clicking the mailbox, you will be able to "lock needs for your current household or the entire neighborhood," Carl's Sims 4 Guide explains. You can also click on an individual Sim to adjust his or her needs and fill them up all the way. Your Sim will be as happy as can be.

  • If you are in the mood for a major makeover, hold down the the "Ctrl," "Shift" and "C" keys one more time to open the command box. Type in "cas.fulleditmode," and you will be able to edit your Sim's gender and traits even though the game is well on its way.

  • In the regular game mode, you are able to use cheats to add as much as 50,000 Simoleon to your account. In the "Testing Cheats" mode, however, you are no longer limited to spare change: Type in "Money X," replacing the "X" with an amount of your heart's desire!