Community Response and Early Challenges
The game has been warmly received by the community, although certain aspects of the project evoke comparisons to a scaled-down version of GTA. Released on March 28, 2025, the game quickly found its way onto various torrent platforms within hours of launch, with multiple versions appearing from sources like ByXatab, Igruha, and other piracy groups.
Prior to the game’s release, the developers had integrated the Denuvo anti-piracy system. However, following widespread criticism from the gaming community, they opted to remove this software from the project. The backlash stemmed from several key concerns raised by dissatisfied fans.
- Performance Impact: Many players reported that the Denuvo software significantly hampered game performance.
- Modding Restrictions: In addition to its piracy protection, Denuvo prevented the integration of user-generated mods, which are crucial for developers aiming to create enduring projects akin to The Sims or GTA. The longevity of such games often hinges on the vibrant modding community, which can keep titles relevant for decades.
In response to these challenges, inZOI Studio and Krafton have placed their bets on community support, and early feedback suggests this strategy is paying off. Modders have already begun to release various modifications that enhance the gameplay experience.
However, the initial launch did present players with some unexpected mechanics. For instance, characters in the game can engage in fights with NPCs or even kidnap children, but perhaps the most surprising feature was the ability to run over pedestrians with a vehicle. This led to immediate comparisons with the GTA franchise. Fortunately, the development team has already addressed some of these unwanted mechanics and bugs, working to refine the overall experience for players.
