has taken the world by storm in recent weeks, thanks to the timed release of its . Those who’ve jumped in have found an incredibly detailed system, with seemingly allowing for a high degree of customisation, and very realistic character builds. Many have compared the game to in approach, but have marvelled at how its Unreal Engine 5 base allows for more human “Zoi” characters, as compared to the more cartoonish models seen in .
But what is , and where did it come from? At , we’ve been . Here’s everything we’ve learned about it so far, and what to expect when it releases. When does release? At this stage, does not have a firm release date – although developer KRAFTON has announced a potential early access release for .
The word is used here, in light of recent game delays, and to temper expectations. It takes a long, time to build a realistic life simulator like , and needs space to develop its polish and scope. While KRAFTON is uniquely positioned to pull this game off – it’s a very successful company with titles like under its purview – keen players should be patient for updates.
That goes doubly so in light of , which was cancelled by publisher Paradox Interactive due to the vast scope of work needed to complete it. has been in development for quite some time, but it’s a very ambitious game and will need ample time to be fully ready for release. : Platforms is expected to launch on PC via Steam, and it’s currently .
A console version for Xbox Series X/S and PlayStation 5 is reportedly in the works, but it’ll turn up on PC first. : Gameplay is very much like in approach. It’s a single player game where you will create your very own “Zoi” avatar – resembling a human – and then set about creating your own stories by exploring a local town, forming relationships with other Zois, and taking part in activities.
“ is a life simulation game where the player can alter any aspect of their world to create unique stories and experiences. Just like in the real world, you can find jobs to make a living while forming deep relationships through interactions,” Krafton says of the game. “You may face unexpected incidents and unlikely scenarios to feel all the emotions life has to offer.
” “Live the life of your dreams! provides a variety of creative tools, so that players can visualize the life they’ve always dreamed of.” Customisation is a core focus of this game, with players able to create and dress up their Zoi any way they like, craft their own home living spaces, and let each of their characters pursue their own stories and dreams. What to expect in ‘s early access In early access, will offer its robust character creation system, alongside early life simulation gameplay.
It’s likely the basic framework of life in the game will be developed by its early access period – media and creators have already played a preview build that suggests as much – with players able to take their first steps into the world of the game, and begin forming their first relationships. What early access will likely lack is gameplay “extras” – additional activities and features, more complex customisation, additional jobs and dialogue trees, additional neighbourhoods, and so on. Krafton has not detailed exactly how far into development the game will be before early access hits, but we can assume there will be plenty to explore while the game is in this form.
As with most early access releases, Krafton will slowly add new features to the game, expanding the potential of , and how players can live their new virtual lives. Will have multiplayer? At this stage, is being developed as a single player game, but Krafton is open to developing multiplayer features in future – likely well beyond the game’s early access period. In an FAQ on its Discord, the team suggested it was “considering” multiplayer aspects, such as the ability to meet up with other players – but plans have not taken shape yet.
For more on the game, stay tuned to ..
