Inzoi’s reviews get a boost from Island Getaway update, but why?

Well, after a good period of anticipation the newest update for Inzoi that adds the island paradise of Cahaya has released. And already the score for the Steam version has been bolstered to ‘Mostly Positive’ for recent reviews, although it still remains ‘mixed’ for the overall picture, but why is this? Well, I’ve got a couple of ideas.

Welcome to Cahaya

Overall, Cahaya’s addition is a pretty big game-changer, taking players from the somewhat sterile streets of Inzoi’s default city and to a palm-soaked paradise based on Southeast Asia. Unsurprisingly this is probably part of the reason why the reviews have been given a bump, because it finally presents what Inzoi players wanted, more content.

Console first

I think it’s important to look at the fact that Inzoi released into early access first as a significant factor for why it received mixed reviews. Judging by the console release date, it’s about a year before a more content-complete picture develops for Inzoi, and because it’s so early doors those used to The Sims 4’s massive amount of content have been put off.

The Stardew effect

I think as well that Cahaya’s additions are much more significant than just a new location. The farming and crafting additions, as well as resort activities offer more of a clear idea of what we can expect as Inzoi develops. And that offers a more promising route than trying to emulate the Sims franchise with a more ‘realistic’ angle, something that misses out on part of the key fun of the life sim genre.

The long-term picture, I’d guess, is that we need more content like this. And ideally, more often. Because while Cahaya is a great addition to Inzoi it’s also come after the initial wave of hype died off.

Either way, the latest Inzoi update seems to have restarted interest in this new life sim. So with a console release coming in 2026, there’ll certainly be a lot more to look forward to.