Nivalis gameplay reveals a cyberpunk life sim with 135 NPCs
Manage a nightclub, decorate an apartment, and build relationships in the new open-world cyberpunk life simulator Nivalis.
Developer Ion Lands has released a new gameplay showcase for Nivalis, an upcoming cyberpunk life simulator published by 505 Games and set in a neon-drenched open world. The footage highlights a range of activities, from managing restaurants and nightclubs to decorating apartments and building relationships with a cast of 135 NPCs.
The game is set in the same universe as Ion Lands' previous title, Cloudpunk, which launched in 2020. While Cloudpunk focused on narrative-driven delivery driving, Nivalis shifts the focus to simulation and management mechanics within the same sprawling, voxel-style city.
Running a business in the clouds
The showcase demonstrates several management aspects of the game. Players will start small, growing their business empire by running noodle stands, restaurants, and nightclubs. You'll need to manage ingredients, cook food, and mix drinks to keep customers happy and generate revenue.
The city itself appears massive, with multiple levels to explore, from the grimy streets near the ocean to the towering skyscrapers above the clouds. The voxel art style, a signature of the developer, provides a distinct visual identity that sets it apart from other cyberpunk titles.
Building a life in Nivalis
Beyond business management, Nivalis emphasizes personal life simulation. The game features 135 NPCs, each with their own schedules and routines. Players can interact with these characters, making friends, forming rivalries, and even pursuing romantic relationships.
You can also purchase and decorate various apartments throughout the city. The showcase reveals a robust customization system, allowing players to choose furniture, lighting, and other decor to personalize their living spaces. For those looking for a break from the hustle and bustle, the game also includes a fishing minigame.
A shift in genre
The transition from a narrative adventure in Cloudpunk to a full-fledged life simulator in Nivalis is a significant shift for Ion Lands. The developer is expanding the scope of its world, offering a more open-ended and player-driven experience.
While life simulators are common, the cyberpunk setting offers a different flavor compared to the pastoral environments of games like Stardew Valley or Animal Crossing. Nivalis is currently in development and has a planned release date of 2026.
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