Life By You: Escaping Childish Cartoons
Naturally, the decision to develop Life by You, a life sim with an ultra-realistic art style, has piqued players’ curiosity. Given that most prospective players are used to The Sims franchise’s distinctive cartoon-like aesthetic, this deviation from the norm is considered risky. However, as the Art Director, Richard, clarifies, they have a clear understanding of their target demographic.
Life by You aims to cater to mature adults who have grown up playing “other life sims” (i.e., The Sims) and are now seeking a richer experience. The art style for Life by You was intentionally designed not to mimic other games, but rather to cultivate a unique style that appeals to adults rather than children. Recognizing that their former young Sims players have now matured, the team wanted to provide a game experience that mirrors this evolution.
Another factor contributing to the choice of Life by You’s art style is the ease with which it can be modified by players. One of the major selling points of the game is its claim to be the most modifiable life simulation game currently available. Thus, the visual design of the game is crafted to facilitate this, enabling players to tailor the game according to their preference, ensuring a seamless integration of their creations. The art style’s flexibility, unconstrained by a specific aesthetic, allows players to shape it according to their desired look and feel.