PS5 JRPG Atelier Karia Adding GTA San Andreas-Style Weight Mechanic After Overwhelming Fan Vote
Gust is adding an optional weight mechanic to the PS5 role-playing game *Atelier Karia* after strong support in a player survey. When enabled, Karia’s body shape will change as she eats, extending the game’s existing food-based gameplay.
The survey found that 78.9% of players wanted the feature, with native English speakers showing the strongest demand. Players can switch it off or lock Karia’s appearance at a chosen size. The game is due out in 2027, and the article compares the mechanic with weight changes in *GTA: San Andreas*.
- *Atelier Karia* is adding an optional weight mechanic.
- 78.9% of surveyed players supported the feature.
- The game is due out in 2027.
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Atelier Karia is a role-playing game by Japanese developer Gust, part of the long-running Atelier series. These games commonly centre on gathering ingredients, crafting items and using food or other creations as part of play.
The proposed feature connects eating with changes to the main character Karia’s body shape. Players would be able to choose whether it is active and set an appearance they want to keep. The idea has drawn comparisons with Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas, which also included a character weight system.
The feature reflects a wider question in game design: how much should player feedback shape optional mechanics and character customisation? It also raises practical choices for developers about making such systems adjustable for different players.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Supporters could argue that the mechanic makes food choices more tangible and gives players another way to shape their experience, especially since the survey showed strong interest. Making it optional, with controls to switch it off or lock Karia’s appearance, lets fans who enjoy the feature opt in while preserving choice for others.
The case against
Critics could argue that tying a character’s body shape to eating risks making weight a source of judgement or turning body change into a novelty, particularly in a game aimed at a broad audience. They may feel the food system could be expanded without making appearance a gameplay consequence, and that an opt-out does not remove the concern for players who encounter the feature by default or through discussion around the game.