Any tips for getting Sims 4 running on Linux without losing my saves?

Keep track of which Wine prefix each launcher uses. A prefix has its own files and settings, so a game launched in one prefix may not see saves or mods stored in another. Before moving anything, check the game’s save location in the prefix that already has the data, then make a backup. Pointing your launch command at the correct prefix is a better first step than copying the saves repeatedly.

I’d split the troubleshooting into two parts: graphics and launch configuration. Check that the graphics driver is actually active and up to date, then test whether the game launches from Wine separately from the launcher. If direct launch works, compare its prefix and launch settings with the launcher’s. A blank screen alone doesn’t tell you which part is failing.

For the terminal-window issue, keep the launch output around while testing. Logs can show errors that a desktop shortcut hides, and launching through a terminal can change how output or processes are handled. Once you know what differs, you can adjust the script or shortcut rather than guessing at the cause.

There’s a real tradeoff here. Compatibility tools can give you lots of control, but a setup that works may take patient troubleshooting, especially when drivers, launchers, and save locations all get involved. If tinkering is part of the fun, write down the working command and back up the prefix so you can recreate it later.