Halloween is right around the corner; this means that it’s time to get your spook on and embrace the chills and thrills that many video games bless us with each year. If you’re not too fond of aliens or freakish monsters but like good old zombie games, you’re in for a treat this year as zombie games are a dime a dozen these days. Seemingly every year, we see a large variety of zombie games get published. While not all reach critical acclaim due to it being an over-saturated market, many stand tall among the rest as true greats in the genre. These are those games.
Dead Rising 2
With the game being re-released for the PS4 and Xbox One, this is the best time to experience Dead Rising 2 in all it’s glory. This classic from the PS3 generation was ahead of it’s time with all of the carnage on screen at once. Hundreds of zombies roamed the playing-field and you had so many unique weapons you could discover or make yourself. What’s more fun that combining a dirt bike with a chainsaw and going to town on hordes of the undead?
Dead Island
Dead Island boasted what were arguably the best graphics on the PS3 and Xbox 360. This gorgeous game based on a tropical island was an absolute treat to explore; so many secrets to uncover and unique enemy types to slay. While it’s lacking a little in the story department, it makes up for this in gameplay; slicing limbs off of zombies, breaking their bones, and decapitating them was only part of the fun to be had.
World War Z
Talk about hundreds of zombies on screen at once, World War Z tops the charts in this category. Zombies climb over each other forming a tower of the undead attempting to reach the player. Enjoy this zombie- festered experience with up to 4 players or fly it solo. Either way, you’re in for the fright of your life if you become overwhelmed. It goes without saying that the ideal way to play is with others, otherwise you won’t survive the onslaught.
Dying Light
Think Dead Island with parkour. Traversal has never been more fun; evade zombies by climbing anything and everything. Predator by day, prey by night. The zombies at night become significantly more vicious. Learn your way around the map or get lost and cornered at night. You can also enjoy the experience with up to 4 friends to lessen the tension to some degree. What better time to jump into the game than now with Dying Light 2 on the horizon.
State of Decay 2
From a base management system to survival elements, State of Decay 2 is the epitome of the ideal zombie apocalypse experience. Recruit other survivors into your community, scavenge for supplies to build up your defenses, or just drive around hitting zombies with your car doors. If you love The Walking Dead and crave a game that has a similar premise, look no further than State of Decay 2. With the third entry into the series just around the corner, now is the time to hone in on your survival skills.
Resident Evil 2 Remake
The remake of Resident Evil 2 is perfection. Accurately encapsulating the feel of the original in a more modernized setting, the game is a treat to long-time fans of the series. Play as Leon or Claire in a totally different scenario with a unique story and characters. Let’s not forget to mention the menacing Mr. X that stalks the player throughout the game. This tyrant heightens the tense immensely, making you paranoid that he’s right behind you. Never stop running.
Back 4 Blood
From some of the developers of Left 4 Dead, Back 4 Blood pays homage to the classic game that many fans adore. With this game recently releasing and Halloween coming up, now is the perfect time to jump right into the action with up to 4 friends in online co-op. If you haven’t gotten your hands on it yet, it’s hard not to be excited for when that day comes. This is a strong contender for game of the year.
The Walking Dead
The first season of The Walking Dead is a masterpiece; masterful storytelling and relatable characters make this game shine with ease. The attachment and pain felt when losing a character due to your choices, albeit your choices make little difference, is something special. From start to finish, the game is a painstakingly emotional journey full of twists and turns. Fans of the television series will definitely enjoy this. Tissues nearby are strongly recommended.
Days Gone
What Days Gone may lack in gameplay to some players, it makes up for in charm. The narrative of the game is beyond underrated; it’s a heart-wrenching yet heartwarming adventure. The motorcycle used to traverse the world is nothing short of a thrill ride as you try to fend off humongous hordes of the undead. Being that the game is single player only, rest assured you’re in for the fight of your life and you’ll need a new set of trousers after an encounter with one.
The Last Of Us/The Last Of Us Part II
You simply can’t include one without the other; both are masterpieces in their own right. The Last of Us is another masterpiece that will live on as a true classic in the survival horror genre. The character development is some of the best in any video game ever created. Naughty Dog knew what they were doing when making these games and we can only hope they make a part three in the future as it’s sure to be something stellar.
Conclusion
As you can see, there’s plenty of zombie games to sink your teeth into this Halloween. Don’t be afraid to explore others that didn’t make this list as there’s more that are quite exceptional as well. Suffice to say, there’s no shortages in this genre. Happy slaying!
