In inZOI, the choices you make have real-world consequences. Poor karma can lead to literal ghost towns, impacting the very fabric of your in-game cities. Read on to learn more about inZOI’s unique karma system and its upcoming early access release.
In inZOI, Cities Can Become Ghost Towns
A City's Fate Hinges on Karma
In inZOI, a city can become overrun with ghosts if too many Zois die with low karma, significantly altering the city's overall state. In a recent interview with PC Gamer, inZOI Director Hyungjun Kim highlighted the profound impact of the game's karma system.
Kim explains, "Every action a Zoi takes accumulates karma points. Upon death, a karma evaluation determines their soul's state. A low score transforms the Zoi into a ghost, requiring karma redemption before rebirth."
This system isn't just about good versus bad. Kim emphasizes, "Life isn't simply good or bad; every life holds meaning and value. Our karma system encourages players to explore diverse events and stories, uncovering life's multifaceted nature." The accumulation of ghosts, however, presents a significant challenge. If unchecked, new Zois cannot be born, nor can families be formed, placing the responsibility for the city's vitality squarely on the player's shoulders.
A Nod to The Sims Legacy
While inZOI is poised to be a major contender in the life simulation genre, challenging the dominance of The Sims, Kim clarifies their perspective: "We view inZOI not as a competitor to The Sims, but as another option for fans of the genre." He expresses deep respect for the Sims franchise, acknowledging the immense challenge of creating such depth and complexity in a life simulation game. The sheer scope of capturing the essence of "life" is a monumental undertaking.
inZOI aims to offer a distinct experience through its unique features. Kim highlights, "Players can freely shape their desired lives using various creative tools. Unreal Engine 5 powers our realistic visuals, complemented by in-depth customization and AI-driven creative tools. We hope players will explore these features, become their own protagonists, and truly live within these worlds."
inZOI Early Access and Livestream Showcase
inZOI’s early access launch date on Steam is set for March 28, 2025, at 00:00 UTC. A worldwide map on the official website details regional release times.
A live showcase will be held on March 19, 2025, at 01:00 UTC on inZOI’s official YouTube and Twitch channels. The showcase will cover early access pricing, DLC, the developmental roadmap, and answer community questions. A new early access teaser is also available on their YouTube channel.
inZOI launches its early access on Steam on March 28, 2025, and will also be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC. Specific release dates for consoles beyond early access are yet to be announced. Visit the official inZOI page for the latest updates.
