Project Zomboid

What's the buzz about Project Zomboid? The game is still in its alpha stages - but early access players are already heralding the game as one of the best post-apocalyptic survival games on the market. That's a tough nut to crack, considering there is an endless number of zombie games currently released. Not to mention those still in development.

So what makes Project Zomboid special? Initial views don't say a whole lot about the game. It looks elementary in visuals, similar in survival mechanics, and straightforward in design. Yet, something is binding the multiplayer community together about this one. Best get stuck into survival mode to find out!

There are Zombies in My Sandbox!

Getting into the game, it's pretty clear why this game is earning its acclaim. The high level of fan dedication through player-run servers, feedback, and commitment towards an immersive experience, propels it as a winner. Moreover, the profound sense of realism also sets Project Zomboid apart from games of similar caliber.

The narrative and backstory aren't exactly the most original, but it's how you tell your own tale that matters. You are simply tasked with survival in the towns of Muldraugh and West Point against a zombie apocalypse. Players will be forced to loot houses and gather materials to get the tools they need to see another day. And as trivial as it is, it's hugely fun.

Sharing the experience with friends, the techniques for survival become a bonding agent with the party. You do get an immersive sense that you and your buddies simply must survive. Together you'll craft weapons, food, and defenses through the plethora of materials made available. Not to mention, mechanics include realistic problems such as boredom, depression, hunger, and illness.

What Project Zomboid lacks in visuals - it's making up for in a deep and meaningful experience. Staving off zombies hordes is made that much more of a challenge when there are so many elements to consider. The gameplay does not feel overzealous either. It's just a post-apocalyptic tale that goes on until the end of days - engaging as you'd like it to be.

Ahh, Real Zombies!

The only thing hindering the Project Zomboid experience at the moment would be the visuals. However, dedicated players would argue that if the gameplay is that good, it doesn't matter. I'd be inclined to agree here. You get games like Dead Island, which are visually stunning, yet don't match the immersion factor because of lackluster gameplay.

Pros:

• Immersive gameplay featuring a variety of survival mechanics
• Innovative sense of realism throughout
• An excellent game to play with friends

Cons:

• Visuals are lackluster
• Still a bit buggy in early access