What are the rules of the Runaway Teen Challenge?

Runaway Teen Challenge: the rules

The Runaway Teen Challenge by Stormy Dayz Gamez (formerly Rainy Dayz Gamez), adapted from the Sims 3 version is a Sims 4 challenge. It lasts one Sim's life. No shelter of any kind until you have earned the money for it. The goal: There is no end goal and no points: survive and build a better life, ideally a home, a well-paid job and a family.

At a glance

Creator: Stormy Dayz Gamez (formerly Rainy Dayz Gamez), adapted from the Sims 3 version
Length: One life
Packs: Base game (pack add-ons up to Eco Lifestyle are optional)
Rules: The creator's page, read on October 28, 2026

How to start

Start with one teen and 0 simoleons (teen-only households have been allowed since the March 2017 patch).
Optional: buy an Outdoor Retreat tent or Get Together party bush before you set money to 0.
No lot size limit.

The rules

No shelter of any kind until you have earned the money for it.
No electronics, appliances or phone use until you have a home with at least a kitchen, a bathroom and a bedroom.
No part-time job. As a young adult, no full-time job until you have that home.
No school: cancel the trip each day.
Until young adult, don't talk to adults or cook or shower on other people's lots. You may socialize with children and teens.
Public places such as the gym may be used for showers and toilets.
Fishing, gardening and digging for things to sell are unlimited. Painting on a portable easel is allowed too.
Each trip off the lot costs 10 simoleons (remove it with the money cheat or buy a cheap item instead).
Ignore invitations unless they come from a teen or child.
Clubs are fine if all members are teens or children; meetings must happen away from the home lot.
Scouts and Drama Club are allowed. Going out of your way to become famous is not (Get Famous has optional alternate rules).

How you win

There is no end goal and no points: survive and build a better life, ideally a home, a well-paid job and a family.

Tips

Skipping school can give the Irresponsible trait (Parenthood). Fix it near the birthday with chores, school projects or pet care.
Queue an action before 8am so it is easy to cancel the school trip.
Visit lots with other teens so your Sim has someone allowed to talk to.

Free tools for the challenge

More one-life challenges

Questions

Can a runaway teen go to school in the Sims 4 challenge?

No. You cancel the school trip every day.

How does a runaway teen make money?

By fishing, gardening, digging up collectibles and selling them. Painting on an easel is allowed too.

Is there a goal in the Runaway Teen challenge?

No points and no fixed end. The aim is to survive and build a new life with a home, a job and a family.