Of the many games stepping up to the plate as an alternative to The Sims 4, Inzoi feels like one of the strongest. The hyper-realistic life sim built by Krafton's Inzoi Studio has the looks and the framework, but it still has a long way to go through its early access journey before it will be ready to stand up to the might of EA's juggernaut. Unfortunately, the developer confirms that we'll now need to wait a little longer before the first big update lands, which is set to introduce Inzoi mod tools, improvements to the build and create modes, and better emotional responses.
The first stage along the Inzoi modders the basics. The update will also include dynamic weight and muscle changes, an adoption system, more outfits and furniture, and improvements for relationships, build mode, and Create-a-Zoi.
Now, however, it's going to take a few more weeks to arrive in the life game. "The update that was originally planned for the end of May, including the modding system, has been postponed to mid-June," game director Hyungjun 'Kjun' Kim announces in a new developer letter. "We sincerely apologize to those who were waiting," he continues. "We felt there were still areas that needed improvement, and we wanted to prioritize quality over speed." Personally, I'll always advocate for a slightly later launch if it ensures a polished result, so I'm happy to wait.
Kjun does, however, tease an extra feature the team is planning to include: "We are also working to improve how Zois express emotions and show personality in the June update." He explains that the team has discovered "some unexpected side effects" such as Zois freezing or not correctly reflecting their emotions in their facial expressions and behaviors. Additionally, in response to criticisms of Zois feeling a little too similar across the board, Inzoi Studio is introducing "emotion-based conversions and reactions, so that even the same actions vary depending on emotional state."
Kjun gives an example of how a sad Zoi "might 'cry in the bathroom,'" and remarks that some of these interactions will become more or less likely depending on mood. "Even eating may differ based on emotions or needs," he concludes. "This is just the beginning. We want Zois to develop unique personalities over time, and respond more naturally based on their emotional state. We are committed to evolving this system long term."
If you're looking for something to keep you busy until the update lands in June, we've rounded up the best relaxing games if you'd rather take a step back.
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