Whether I was using my disks, or digital downloads of Sims 2, I have this issue. I have a Windows 8 computer (64 bit) and it worked fine before I had to restore the machine a while back. I used to use the store edition, now I use the Ultimate Collection. Problem persists in both, though Store Edition is no longer functional.

I have ONE option for resolution. I have searched high and low and tried just about everything I could find to fix the issue. Nothing has worked. I would love to have the resolution something other than the tiny 800 x 600 window I have available. Add to that the rectangle under my Sims whenever they are standing/moving about and it gets really annoying FAST!

Please, someone point me in the direction of the help I can't seem to find using the search. I have looked up about the black squares/rectangles and can't find a post I KNOW was here a while back about the 800x600 issue.

My computer, as I said, is Windows 8.1 64 bit. I have 8 gig of RAM, an ATI Radeon HD 6670 graphics card and everything is updated completely. HELP, PLEASE!

Edit: Thank you all for your help! It took a while to understand what the solutions were explaining, but both my issues are solved, now! I'm a very happy Simmer!

Have you tried this:

http://www.sevenforums.com/gaming/3...resolution.html

The first reply worked for me. Only thing you need to figure out is what the UC runs though, EP wise. Probably Mansion and Garden, but I don't know because I don't have it. From what I've read, Store Edition is not included in UC.

As for the other issue, a quick fix is to turn shadows to medium or lower.

Go here to get help with your video problem http://www.leefish.nl/mybb/showthread.php?tid=5446 please follow every thing and if you card is not there post your info as it says to.

My sims shows a black rectangle underneath them as well, if the shadow option is set on the highest setting. I have the same computer specs as you, aside from the graphic card. On my last re-install, the shadow option was grayed out, but became visible and enabled for change when I entered CAS mode. In CAS mode though, other graphic/game options were then grayed out.

I know this is a long shot, but have you tried entering the settings both from the neighborhood, the CAS and in live mode?

Edit: Oh wow, I type slow. This thread had no replies when I first began writing this.

Wow, this was an amazing fix! Thanks for the tip!

Store Edition is no longer functioning, I have to use UC. . . and the loading screen says Fun With Pets, but inside it says Mansion and Gardens. It might take me a bit to figure out where it is actually running through. LOL

Look for a folder called "SP9" and try those instructions posted anywhere above (I think they are all the same basic instructions) and assume "SP9" is the current engine (for lack of a better word). That's what I'd try anyway... But maybe someone else knows for sure?

For the Graphic Rules file? For the Ultimate Collection it's here on your computer: C:\Program Files (x86)\Origin Games\The Sims 2 Ultimate Collection\Fun with Pets\SP9\TSData\Res\Config

Edit to add: Every time EA does an update by the way, which they did a few when UC was first released, you'll have to redo the graphic rules file so save your edited copy elsewhere.

You were correct. I finally followed my desktop shortcut to the place where it originates. I got everything working now! The shadows finally left when I reduced the shadows to medium, after following all the instructions in the links provided. Thank you all!!! :D

Oh wow, I'm making a copy of that graphic rules that worked right now! I really don't want to have to do all of that again! Thanks!

I have windows 8 and the only issue I can't seem to sort yet is that none of Seasons & it's pack work/ or show up. I am going to try re-installing and see if it doesn't appear. Does anyone have any advice on how to fix that? Thanks!

@MM68 you should have started your own thread for this.

We need more info on your problem, what EP/SP's do you have installed.
Did you patch after each EP and the 1 SP (if you have it) after you installed each one?