Our take on InZOI’s first Free DLC Release.

When inZOI first launched earlier this year, it made waves mostly for its jaw-dropping visuals. Built in Unreal Engine 5, the game looked almost too real—like The Sims on steroids. But the big question was whether it could deliver the same quirky charm and gameplay depth that has kept The Sims alive for two decades.

The new expansion, InZOI Island Getaway, is Krafton’s latest attempt to prove that inZOI isn’t just a pretty face. Released on August 20, 2025 (and free for all Early Access players), the update whisks your Zois off to Cahaya, a tropical island that feels part vacation resort, part survival sandbox.

What’s New in Cahaya

The InZOI Island Getaway expansion actually splits the island into two halves. One side is a residential hub where your Sims—I mean Zois—can live sustainably by fishing, farming, mining, and crafting. It has a very Stardew Valley meets The Sims vibe, clearly meant to add some long-term progression that was missing from the core game.

The other side is a resort paradise, full of leisure activities like snorkelling, treasure hunting, and arcade games. First, Zois must purchase snorkelling gear and improve their swimming skill before diving. With a high swimming skill, they can either swim out to deeper waters or rent a boat and climb off its back. 

While your Zoi can live on the main island, there is the option to visit the resort island and book a stay for some nights. There are plenty of villas to choose from, but be prepared to spend all your money, as there are extras like swimming pools. At the resort, they have activities like bowling and billiards. 

One of the main attractions of Cahaya is underwater diving, but first, Zois must purchase snorkelling gear. A zoi must also improve their swimming skill before they are able to dive. Exercises in the water, such as practising holding their breath, can also help level up this skill. Once underwater, they can swim with fish, turtles, dolphins, and dangerous marine life like sharks and jellyfish. Coral reefs and ancient temples are available to explore, and you might find treasure.

It’s the kind of content that makes the game feel more like a playful vacation simulator rather than just a hyper-realistic life sim.

Beyond activities, the InZOI Island Getaway Free DLC quietly overhauls the emotional depth of your Zois.

Jobs

If you think that’s all, not even close. There are also more jobs, such as:

• Junior Lawyer
• Rookie Criminal
• Tour Guide Trainee
• Nestwatcher for Turtles
• Investigator for an Encyclopedia Association
• Rookie Taxi Driver
• Lotus Space Assistant for Meditation & Yoga
• Farmer
• Miner

At the moment, they are all rabbit hole jobs.

Cahaya’s Resort

At Cahaya’s resort, this is something for everyone to enjoy, including a spa. Somewhere, my Zoi will be spending a lot of time. Players will find a sauna and a variety of massage options, such as separate massages for their feet, scalp and hands. If that’s not your speed, they can enjoy having their feet soaked in buckets of fish or roses (depending on your preference) or get a full-body massage instead.

Miatara Temple

Although the DLC doesn’t allow us to have pets (which will change in the future), players can visit the Cat temple, which is called the Miatara Temple. You can purchase a variety of cat-related items like treats, a talisman, toys and catnip candy. After exploring, they can climb the temple and stairs and interact with cats. They can give them treats or play with them, making them happy and in cat heaven. 

What Works (and What Doesn’t)

The good news: this is the most fun I’ve had with inZOI since launch. The tropical theme is relaxing, and the farming/fishing loop scratches that cosy sim itch without feeling like a copy-paste. The fact that it’s free is also a huge win—Krafton seems serious about delivering value during Early Access.

The bad news: the core criticisms of inZOI still linger. Although the new activities in InZOI Island Getaway are refreshing, the game sometimes feels like a collection of beautiful systems rather than a living, breathing world. Zois still lack the quirky charm of Sims—they’re expressive, yes, but a little flat in personality. And though farming and crafting are welcome, they can feel like a distraction from fixing the foundation of the life sim itself.

Verdict

The InZOI Island Getaway free DLC is exactly what inZOI needed right now: a shot of colour, variety, and fun. It’s own quirky mix of realism and cosy escapism. Players have already started modding new outfits for everyone to try! Just watching out for the lightning, don’t be so shocked when it gets you out of nowhere.

For players who already own the base game, this expansion is a no-brainer—it’s free, it’s packed with content, and it makes your Zois feel more alive than before.

But—and this is the big but—if Krafton wants to keep up the momentum, future updates will need to focus less on mini-games and more on the core life simulation. Until then, Island Getaway is a fantastic vacation, even if it doesn’t fully solve inZOI’s identity crisis.

Let us know what you think and stay tuned for more InZOI Updates!