InZOI Studio Abandons Denuvo DRM for Enhanced Player Customization

The development team behind InZOI, a game seen as a potential rival to The Sims, has announced its decision to remove Denuvo anti-tamper technology. This move comes in response to player concerns regarding the impact of Denuvo on game performance and modding capabilities. Initially implemented to protect against illegal distribution, the studio realized that community feedback highlighted a misalignment with player expectations. By eliminating Denuvo, InZOI aims to enhance customization opportunities and foster an open environment for modders.

Set to launch on Steam Early Access on April 28, InZOI had previously included Denuvo in its Creative Studio mode demo. Hyungjun 'Kjun' Kim, the director and producer of InZOI, acknowledged the initial rationale for adopting Denuvo was to ensure fairness for legitimate purchasers. However, upon reviewing community feedback, the team recognized the importance of aligning with player desires. The early application of Denuvo inadvertently extended to the demo version, a fact not clearly communicated to players, leading to apologies from the development team.

Kjun emphasized that while removing Denuvo increases the risk of piracy, it simultaneously offers valuable opportunities for greater game configurability. This step is expected to empower players to craft new experiences and contribute to the longevity of the game's enjoyment. Recognizing the significance of modding within the gaming community, InZOI plans to progressively expand official mod support, starting with tools like Maya and Blender in May. This initiative aims to allow players extensive freedom in customizing their gameplay experience.

Beyond technical considerations, Kjun expressed regret over the confusion caused within the community and reaffirmed the studio's commitment to rebuilding trust. The removal of Denuvo symbolizes a pivotal moment in fostering creativity and innovation among players. With its detailed realism and original features, InZOI stands out as a compelling alternative to Electronic Arts' The Sims series, promising substantial customization options and unique gameplay experiences.

Moving forward, InZOI intends to prioritize player engagement and satisfaction by embracing an open-ended approach to game development. The decision to eliminate Denuvo underscores the studio's dedication to creating a platform where creativity thrives, ensuring players have the tools needed to shape their own gaming narratives. As InZOI progresses through its Early Access phase, the community can look forward to increasingly sophisticated modding capabilities and enhanced customization possibilities.