I don't know if anyone has experienced this one or not but here it is. Simply I had to format my HD. Once that was done, I installed the Sims 3 and all the expansions. I did the auto update, but it said their was an error, missing a file. I started the game, and I noticed that the option to create a sim is not there. When I say not there, I don't mean that the option is greyed out, or that I'm having issues where it crashes. Literally, the option is not there. There is no option for me to click on, at the main menu. The only options I have are the town I wish to live in. Beyond that, I can only create a household or buy a lot. There is no option to create a sim. The only thing different from before formatting my HD is, I didn't have Pets installed.

Has anyone experienced this? If so please give suggestions on how to fix it.

Create a Household is Create a Sim, they just changed the name when they added Pets.

• Sims 3 - Installing / Patching / Uninstalling
  1. Whether you are Installing for the first time or Reinstalling, be sure to read the Game Help:Install^wiki FAQ.
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  2. This Game_Help:TS3_Uninstall^wiki link has the step-by-step instructions to guide you through uninstalling The Sims 3,
     and its (EP/SP) packs. As well as removing any leftovers after uninstalling.
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  3. The Game_Help:TS3_Patching^wiki Guide provides information on:
     • Tips Before You Begin
     • Patching Common Errors
     • Manual patch Downloads
     • Invalid File Errors and more
  
  

Exited Tutorial Mode?

Wait, you started the game after the patch failure? The patching was done halfway and thus incomplete? That means the game install is corrupt. Means, another uninstall, reinstall, patching exercise may be needed.