InZOI launched in 2025 as a direct competitor to The Sims 4, but despite its initial hype, The Sims 4 remains the more popular choice. InZOI attracted attention for its realism and customization, yet many players returned to The Sims 4 due to its established community, expansions, and long-term support.
🕹️ InZOI vs. The Sims 4: Popularity, Reception, and Player Choices
📊 Quick Comparison
| Aspect | InZOI | The Sims 4 |
|---|---|---|
| Release | March 2025 (Early Access, Krafton) | September 2014 (Maxis/EA) |
| Graphics | Hyper-realistic, Unreal Engine 5 visuals | Stylized, cartoon-like charm |
| Customization | 250+ options, 400+ traits, deep emotional layers | Personality traits, aspirations, expansions-driven variety |
| Community & Mods | Growing but limited; roadmap promises modding tools | Massive modding scene, decade-long expansion ecosystem |
| Popularity | Early hype faded; niche fanbase remains | Millions of active players, consistent updates and events |
| Reception | Mixed—praised for ambition, criticized for generative AI use and lack of polish | Strong, stable player base with regular patches and new kits |
🚀 The Rise of InZOI
When Krafton announced InZOI, many gamers dubbed it “The Sims Killer.” Its promise of realistic graphics, open-world immersion, and deep character customization generated huge buzz before launch. Early adopters were excited by features like advanced emotional traits, modding potential, and a roadmap full of updates.
📉 Why Interest Declined
However, after the initial excitement, InZOI struggled to maintain momentum:
- Generative AI controversy: Some players disliked the reliance on AI-driven systems.
- Early Access limitations: Bugs, missing features, and incomplete systems frustrated casual players.
- Community size: While dedicated fans remain active on Discord and social media, the wider gaming audience moved on quickly.
🌟 The Sims 4’s Enduring Popularity
Meanwhile, The Sims 4 continues to thrive:
- Massive player base: Tens of thousands of daily players on Steam alone, with peaks over 50,000 in 2025.
- Expansions and kits: EA regularly releases new content, keeping the game fresh.
- Established modding scene: A decade of mods, custom content, and storytelling tools make The Sims 4 endlessly replayable.
This consistency means that even with InZOI’s innovations, most players prefer the stability and creativity of The Sims 4.
⚖️ Conclusion
InZOI did not replace The Sims 4 as many predicted. While it offers realism and ambitious features, its niche appeal and early struggles limited its adoption. The Sims 4 remains the dominant life simulation game, loved for its community, expansions, and playful storytelling.
InZOI may grow with future updates, but for now, The Sims 4 is still the life sim most players choose.