The upcoming life sim Paralives sets a precedent by eschewing paid expansions for continuous free updates
Paralives, the latest contender in the life simulation genre aiming to challenge The Sims, is set to make waves with its unique approach to post-launch content. Paralives Studio, the developer behind the game, recently announced that Paralives will forego the traditional model of paid downloadable content (DLC) in favor of providing free updates to players following its release.
Scheduled to debut on Steam Early Access in 2025, Paralives promises a robust experience from the outset, with plans for ongoing enhancements and additions throughout its Early Access phase. While some features, such as basements and pools, were initially slated for launch, the development team has opted to roll them out in subsequent updates to expedite the game’s release.
The decision to offer free updates stems from Paralives Studio’s commitment to delivering a comprehensive and continuously evolving gameplay experience to players. With no shareholders to appease, the studio aims to sustain ongoing development solely through the revenue generated from game sales.
“We believe that purchasing a game should come with the guarantee of a fleshed-out experience,” the studio explained in a recent Patreon update. “As a small team without any shareholders to please, we believe the money we make from selling the game alone will be enough to support us and the development of free updates in the long run.”
Paralives distinguishes itself from its competitors with its focus on player autonomy and immersion. Offering a range of familiar life simulation elements, from household management to career advancement, the game also introduces unique features such as autonomous character behaviors, including the ability for characters to use the bathroom independently.
To provide players with a glimpse of what to expect, Paralives Studio has released a gameplay overview video, showcasing the game’s mechanics and features.
With its innovative approach to post-launch support and dedication to player satisfaction, Paralives aims to carve out its niche in the competitive life simulation genre when it launches on Steam Early Access next year.