I recently was given a free copy of this game, but it is without a manual and therefore serial/installation code. I know installation codes work differently with the Sims 3 than 2. Can I still install this game at some point by using a code found off the web? I have came across some but I do not know if EA will allow them to work. Thank you.

Did you try one? I know the library used to have Sims games so the same codes were used over and over to install them. The people could not register though.

I haven't had the time to do it (installing the Sims 3 I recall is a long task) yet, but I will do soon. So, if I use a code online, the pack can be installed to my game, but I can't register it? Kind regards.

I am pretty sure EA only allows one person to register. Or at least that was case in past? Were you given a disk? I think in some cases in past when disk was sold, with documentation EA would transfer code to allow new person to register, but that was years ago.

Hi, in fact I got a box with working disc from cex (a UK second hand goods chain) for free because it was missing a serial code, so deemed a defective product. And they told me the disc works fine.

Hope you can get a code and activate it.

IMO there is really no need to register unless you want free content that may or may not even be still available. As long as you can access the game and play that is what is most important.