Former Devs Share Life By You Screenshots, Revealing Game's Potential

Following the cancellation of Paradox Interactive's eagerly awaited life simulation game, Life by You, the internet has been buzzing with newly surfaced screenshots. These captivating images, shared by former developers and artists, offer fans a glimpse into what the game could have become. The screenshots, compiled on Twitter (X) by user @SimMattically, showcase the work of talented individuals such as Richard Kho, Eric Maki, and Chris Lewis. Lewis, in particular, detailed his contributions to the game's animation, scripting, lighting, modder tools, shaders, and visual effects on his GitHub page.

The shared images reveal a detailed look at Life by You's potential features. Fans have noted that the visuals, while not vastly different from the most recent gameplay trailer, show notable improvements. One fan expressed their mixed emotions, stating, "We were all super excited and impatient; and then we all ended up extremely disappointed… :( Could have been a great game!" The screenshots highlight well-coordinated outfits designed for various weather conditions and seasons, suggesting an immersive gameplay experience. Additionally, the character customization appears extensive, with enhanced sliders and presets, while the in-game world boasts increased detail and atmosphere compared to earlier trailers.

In the wake of the game's cancellation, Paradox Interactive's Deputy CEO Mattias Lilja shared insights into the decision, stating that the initial delay of the early access release stemmed from the game's shortcomings in crucial areas. "It became clear to us that the road leading to a release that we felt confident about was far too long and uncertain," Lilja explained. CEO Fredrik Wester further elaborated on the situation, acknowledging the strengths and dedication of the team behind Life by You. "However, when we come to a point where we believe that more time will not get us close enough to a version we would be satisfied with, then we believe it is better to stop," Wester remarked.

The abrupt cancellation of Life by You came as a shock to many, especially considering the excitement surrounding its potential to rival EA's iconic "The Sims" series. The game, intended for release on PC, was ultimately abandoned, leading to the closure of Paradox Tectonic, the studio tasked with its development.