inZOI’s Karma System Allows for Literal Ghost Towns

In inZOI, the choices you make have real-world consequences. Poor karma can lead to literal ghost towns, as detailed below. Learn more about inZOI's unique karma system and its upcoming early access release.

InZOI Cities Can Become Ghost Towns

Too Many Ghosts Halt New Life

inZOI introduces a compelling karma system that directly impacts city life. Too many Zois dying with low karma results in a city overrun by ghosts, impacting its overall health. PC Gamer Magazine recently featured inZOI Director Hyungjun Kim, who explained the system's profound effect on gameplay.

According to Kim, "Every Zoi action accumulates karma points. Upon death, a karma evaluation determines their afterlife. Low scores transform the Zoi into a ghost, requiring karma redemption before reincarnation."

The accumulation of ghosts has significant consequences. Kim explains, "Too many ghosts prevent new Zois from being born and families from forming, placing the burden of karmic balance squarely on the players." This adds a layer of strategic depth, forcing players to consider the long-term effects of their Zois' actions.

Kim clarifies, "This system doesn't simply reward 'good' and punish 'bad' actions. Life's complexities defy simple categorization. Every life holds meaning and value." He encourages players to explore inZOI's karma system to "create diverse events and stories, exploring life's multifaceted nature."

Respecting The Sims Legacy

inZOI is poised to be a significant contender in the life simulation genre, potentially challenging the dominance of The Sims. However, Kim doesn't view it as direct competition.

He states, "We see inZOI not as a competitor to The Sims, but as another option for genre fans." He expresses respect for The Sims' legacy, acknowledging the immense challenge of capturing the depth and complexity of life in a video game. The vast scope of "life" makes it difficult to fully encompass all its aspects.

inZOI aims to offer a distinct experience through its unique features. Kim highlights, " inZOI empowers players to shape their desired lives using creative tools. This is achieved through realistic visuals (Unreal Engine 5), in-depth customization, and AI-driven tools. We hope players explore these features, become their own protagonists, and inhabit these worlds."

inZOI Early Access and Livestream Showcase

inZOI's early access release date has been announced. The official website reveals that early access on Steam begins March 28, 2025, at 00:00 UTC. A worldwide map provides region-specific release times.

A live showcase will take place on March 19, 2025, at 01:00 UTC on inZOI's official YouTube and Twitch channels. This will detail 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 Steam early access on March 28, 2025, with PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC versions planned. Specific release dates for consoles haven't been announced. Visit our inZOI page for the latest updates.