I have a genuine appreciation for the direction inZOI is taking. It showcases a stylish and realistic approach, introducing innovative concepts to life simulation games. However, while I’m enthusiastic about the game’s visuals and mechanics, I believe it may be adhering too strictly to the idea of an early-to-bed philosophy. Benjamin Franklin famously declared in his Poor Richard’s Almanack, “Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise,”yet this principle doesn’t need to apply so rigidly within the realm of gaming.
In inZOI, players who opt for sleep between 10 PM and 6 AM are rewarded with substantial time boosts, experiencing a significant increase in game speed during those hours. Conversely, nighttime play results in a noticeable slowdown, which takes away the lively atmosphere typically associated with other life simulation games. Compared to titles like The Sims, which feature vibrant nightlife options such as nightclubs and late-night jobs, inZOI presents an uninviting experience after dark. A comprehensive life simulator should embrace diverse lifestyles—after all, not everyone is an early riser. I hope future updates will enhance the nighttime experience for night owls.
InZOI Is Not Friendly to Night Owls
Nightlife in InZOI Is Uneventful
inZOI certainly impresses with its graphics and detail, but it heavily favors players with early schedules. Following the game’s design, characters who rest between 10 PM and 6 AM receive a major time acceleration boost. This mechanic promotes a focus on routines, leaving little room for late-night activities. Though still in early access, the current iteration lacks significant nighttime appeal.
Post-10 PM, the game’s environment becomes considerably subdued. Most locations close down, offering few engaging activities after hours. Options like visiting bars, attending shows, or exploring lively districts are virtually non-existent. As characters remain awake, the game world appears desolate, almost nudging players to head to bed instead.
Despite these critiques, inZOI has seen more than a million copies sold within its first week of early access.
Not every gamer has the same preferences. Some indulge in the tranquility of late-night hours while others may prefer for their avatars to engage in evening occupations or simply rest in. A robust life simulator should empower players to live according to their choices. Unfortunately, inZOI currently promotes a singular early rising approach, undermining the freedom and joy that life simulation games typically offer.
The Sims Offers Superior Nighttime Activities
Active Nightlife Options in The Sims
In stark contrast, The Sims excels in providing a variety of nighttime activities. This game allows players to shape their characters into night owls or morning people, ensuring that both lifestyles are equally enticing. Regardless of the hour, The Sims always offers engaging pursuits, while inZOI ends up feeling eerily still after dark.
In The Sims, options abound for going out to clubs, bars, or cafes that remain open late. Characters can party, socialize with friends, or embark on romantic dates. Creativity knows no bounds; players can keep their Sims busy with late-night painting, writing, or performing music. Additionally, various nighttime careers, including roles like DJ, bartender, or even thief, add to the game’s rich tapestry of life choices. This flexibility ensures players never feel that late-night gaming is a lost cause.
Conversely, inZOI seems to cater primarily to those who prefer to rise early. The game only grants time boosts when characters adhere to the mandated sleep schedule. Once the clock strikes 10 PM, the life simulation stagnates, leaving shops shuttered and the environment barren. Despite its impressive features and design, inZOI currently squanders valuable gameplay time.
Enhancing inZOI for Meaningful Nighttime Engagement
Potential Nighttime Activities in InZOI
At present, inZOI offers a limited array of nighttime activities, but the potential for enhancement is vast. There’s no reason why gameplay should decelerate simply because it’s late; enriching the nighttime experience could add depth and enjoyment to the game.
For instance, introducing clubs where characters can dance, enjoy karaoke, or socialize over drinks would greatly enhance the late-night atmosphere. Implementing job options with night shifts—such as bartender, DJ, or security guard—would empower players to earn money while engaging with the world after hours.
Additionally, casual activities could brighten the late-night experience. Imagine characters going bowling for a night out or indulging in camping, complete with campfires, marshmallow roasting, and storytelling. Night fishing could allow players to catch unique fish that are unavailable during the day. Even tranquil pursuits—like stargazing through telescopes or lying on the grass watching for fireflies—could create a serene evening vibe.
With its current visual appeal, enhancing inZOI with more engaging nighttime activities would elevate the overall gaming experience. Accommodating both action-seeking players and those who favor a more laid-back evening would transform inZOI into a more enjoyable, well-rounded, and lifelike simulation.