Zombie RPG Games: The Ultimate Guide to Surviving the Apocalypse
Zombies are everywhere. They are in movies, TV shows, comics, books, and of course, video games. But what makes zombie games so appealing? Why do we enjoy playing as survivors in a world overrun by the undead?
zombie rpg games
Zombie games are a subgenre of role-playing games (RPGs), which are games that allow you to create and control a character in a fictional setting. RPGs often have elements such as quests, dialogue, combat, leveling up, inventory management, and character customization. Zombie games add another layer of challenge and excitement by introducing zombies as enemies, allies, or environmental hazards.
Zombie games can be scary, thrilling, funny, or emotional. They can be realistic or fantastical. They can be linear or nonlinear. They can be single-player or multiplayer. They can be anything you want them to be.
In this article, we will explore the history of zombie RPG games, the best zombie RPG games on PC right now, and the future of zombie RPG games. Whether you are a veteran zombie slayer or a curious newcomer, this guide will help you find your next favorite zombie game.
The History of Zombie RPG Games
Zombie games have been around for a long time. The first zombie game is widely considered to be Zombie Zombie, released in 1984 for the ZX Spectrum. It was a simple game that involved shooting zombies from a helicopter and building barricades.
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project zomboid - a hardcore survival horror game with zombies and RPG elements[^2^]
the shadows that run alongside our car - a visual novel about two people in a car during the zombie apocalypse[^1^]
project blockchainz - a post-apocalyptic action RPG with zombies and blockchain technology[^1^]
trailblazer - a western-themed RPG with zombies and gunslingers[^1^]
fallnation - a VR shooter RPG with zombies and soldiers[^1^]
magical girl z - a parody RPG about a magical girl fighting zombies[^1^]
house of necrosis - a horror RPG with zombies and puzzles[^1^]
a horde too many - a side-scrolling RPG with zombies and base building[^1^]
biteme! storymode - a card collecting game with zombies and humor[^1^]
rise of the inferi - a harry potter fan game with zombies and magic[^1^]
The genre really took off in the late 90s and early 2000s with the success of Resident Evil and Left 4 Dead. These games popularized the survival horror and co-op shooter aspects of zombie games respectively. They also introduced iconic zombies such as the Licker, the Hunter, the Witch, and the Tank.
Since then, zombie games have diversified and expanded into various subgenres and platforms. Some examples are:
Dead Rising, which introduced sandbox gameplay and weapon crafting
Plants vs. Zombies, which introduced tower defense gameplay and humor
The Walking Dead, which introduced narrative gameplay and choice-based storytelling
Dying Light, which introduced parkour gameplay and dynamic day-night cycle
State of Decay, which introduced community management and permadeath
Project Z omboid, which introduced hardcore survival and a vast map
These are just some of the many examples of how zombie games have evolved and innovated over the years. But what are the best zombie games on PC right now? Let's find out.
The Best Zombie RPG Games on PC
There are hundreds of zombie games on PC, but not all of them are worth your time and money. To help you narrow down your choices, we have compiled a list of the top 10 zombie RPG games on PC, based on their gameplay, graphics, story, and reviews. Here they are, in no particular order:
Project Zomboid
If you are looking for a realistic and challenging zombie survival game, look no further than Project Zomboid. This game puts you in the shoes of a survivor in a post-apocalyptic Kentucky, where you have to scavenge, craft, fight, and survive against hordes of zombies and other threats. You can also customize your character, skills, and traits, as well as play with friends online or offline.
Project Zomboid is not a game for the faint of heart. It has permadeath, meaning that once you die, you lose everything. It also has a complex simulation system that takes into account factors such as hunger, thirst, fatigue, injury, infection, temperature, weather, noise, and more. You will have to plan ahead and adapt to changing situations, or else you will become zombie food.
Project Zomboid is still in early access, but it already has a lot of content and features to offer. It has a huge map that spans multiple towns and regions, a rich crafting system that allows you to make anything from weapons to furniture to vehicles, a dynamic NPC system that lets you interact with other survivors or enemies, and a cute tutorial raccoon that teaches you the basics. It also has mod support, so you can add more content and customization to your game.
If you want to experience the ultimate zombie survival game, you should definitely check out Project Zomboid. It is available on Steam for $14.99.
Dying Light 2
If you are looking for an action-packed and immersive zombie game, look no further than Dying Light 2. This game is the sequel to the critically acclaimed Dying Light, which combined parkour-based movement with brutal melee combat in a zombie-infested city. Dying Light 2 takes this formula to the next level by adding dynamic choices, factions, and a day-night cycle.
Dying Light 2 is set 15 years after the events of the first game, in a new city called The City. You play as Aiden Caldwell, an infected survivor who has access to exceptional parkour skills and combat abilities. You can explore the city freely, using your agility and creativity to traverse the urban environment. You can also interact with various factions and characters, who will offer you quests and challenges. Your choices will shape the world around you, affecting the story, the environment, and the gameplay.
Dying Light 2 also features a dynamic day-night cycle that changes the gameplay drastically. During the day, you can scavenge for resources, trade with NPCs, and complete missions. During the night, however, the zombies become more aggressive and dangerous, forcing you to use stealth or fight for your life. You can also encounter special zombies that have unique abilities and behaviors.
Dying Light 2 is not only a single-player game but also a co-op game. You can join up with up to three other players online and experience the game together. You can also compete with other players in various modes such as Be The Zombie or Bad Blood.
Dying Light 2 is expected to be released in 2023 for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. You can pre-order it on Steam for $59.99.
State of Decay 2
If you are looking for a community-based and strategic zombie game, look no further than State of Decay 2. This game is the sequel to the popular State of Decay, which introduced a unique blend of base building, resource management, and permadeath in a zombie-infested world. State of Decay 2 improves on this formula by adding co-op multiplayer, cross-platform play, and more content and features.
State of Decay 2 puts you in charge of a group of survivors who have to establish and maintain a community in a post-apocalyptic landscape. You can choose from various maps, characters, and scenarios, each with their own challenges and opportunities. You can also recruit new members, each with their own skills, traits, and personalities. You will have to manage your resources, such as food, water, ammo, and medicine, as well as your morale, which affects your performance and relationships.
State of Decay 2 also features a dynamic and emergent gameplay system that adapts to your actions and decisions. The world is constantly changing, with new threats and events happening every day. You will have to deal with zombie attacks, human raids, infestations, sieges, plague hearts, and more. You will also have to interact with other communities, who can be allies or enemies depending on your choices. You can trade with them, help them, or fight them.
State of Decay 2 is not only a single-player game but also a co-op game. You can join up with up to three other players online and play together in the same world. You can also play across different platforms, such as PC and Xbox One. You can share resources, items, and vehicles with your friends, as well as help them with their missions and goals.
State of Decay 2 is available on Steam for $29.99. It is also included in the Xbox Game Pass for PC and Console.
Dead Island 2
If you are looking for a fun and gory zombie game, look no further than Dead Island 2. This game is the sequel to the cult classic Dead Island, which combined melee combat, crafting, and RPG elements in a tropical island setting. Dead Island 2 takes this concept to the next level by adding co-op multiplayer, new locations, and more zombies.
Dead Island 2 is set several months after the events of the first game, in a quarantined California. You play as one of the immune survivors who have to fight against zombies and human enemies in various locations such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Hollywood. You can choose from four different classes: Berserker, Hunter, Speeder, or Bishop. Each class has its own skills, weapons, and playstyle.
Dead Island 2 features a visceral and satisfying melee combat system that lets you use various weapons such as axes, hammers, machetes, guns, and more. You can also craft your own weapons by combining different parts and materials. You can also upgrade your skills and abilities by leveling up and completing quests.
Dead Island 2 is not only a single-player game but also a co-op game. You can join up with up to seven other players online and play together in the same world. You can also compete with other players in various modes such as Bloodbath Arena or Horde Mode.
Dead Island 2 is expected to be released in 2023 for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. You can pre-order it on Steam for $59.99.
Resident Evil 2 Remake
If you are looking for a classic and terrifying zombie game, look no further than Resident Evil 2 Remake. This game is a remake of the legendary Resident Evil 2, which was released in 1998 for the PlayStation. It is widely regarded as one of the best horror games of all time, and the remake does it justice by updating the graphics, gameplay, and story.
Resident Evil 2 Remake is set in 1998, in the fictional city of Raccoon City, which has been infected by a deadly virus that turns people into zombies. You can play as either Leon S. Kennedy, a rookie cop who arrives at the city on his first day of work, or Claire Redfield, a college student who is looking for her brother Chris. You have to escape the city while avoiding zombies and other monsters, as well as solving puzzles and finding clues.
Resident Evil 2 Remake features a stunning and realistic graphics engine that creates a dark and atmospheric environment. The game also features a revamped and responsive gameplay system that lets you shoot, dodge, and heal with ease. The game also features a new camera angle that follows your character closely, creating a more immersive and tense experience.
Resident Evil 2 Remake is not only a single-player game but also a multiplayer game. You can play with another player online or offline in various modes such as The 4th Survivor, The Ghost Survivors, or The Tofu Survivor. You can also unlock extra costumes, weapons, and modes by completing the game with different scenarios and difficulties.
Resident Evil 2 Remake is available on Steam for $39.99. It is also included in the Resident Evil Bundle for $79.98.
The Walking Dead: The Final Season
If you are looking for a narrative and emotional zombie game, look no further than The Walking Dead: The Final Season. This game is the final installment of the acclaimed The Walking Dead series by Telltale Games, which is based on the comic book series by Robert Kirkman. It is a story-driven game that focuses on choices, consequences, and relationships.
The Walking Dead: The Final Season is set several years after the events of the previous games, in a world ravaged by zombies and human conflict. You play as Clementine, a young girl who has grown up in the apocalypse and has become a hardened survivor. You have to protect AJ, a boy who is like a brother to you, and find a place to call home. You will meet new and old characters along the way, who will test your morals and loyalty.
The Walking Dead: The Final Season features a beautiful and expressive art style that captures the mood and tone of the comic book series. The game also features an improved gameplay system that lets you explore, fight, and interact with more freedom and agency. The game also features a new camera angle that gives you more control over your perspective.
The Walking Dead: The Final Season is not only a single-player game but also a multiplayer game. You can play with another player online or offline in the Story Builder mode, which lets you create your own story based on your choices from the previous games. You can also share your story with other players and see how they compare.
The Walking Dead: The Final Season is available on Steam for $19.99. It is also included in The Walking Dead: The Telltale Definitive Series for $49.99.
Left 4 Dead 2
If you are looking for a fast-paced and fun zombie game, look no further than Left 4 Dead 2. This game is the sequel to the hit Left 4 Dead, which revolutionized the co-op shooter genre with its innovative AI Director and diverse zombies. Left 4 Dead 2 improves on this formula by adding new characters, weapons, maps, modes, and zombies.
Left 4 Dead 2 is set in the aftermath of a zombie outbreak, in various locations across the United States. You play as one of the four survivors, who have to work together to reach safe zones and escape the zombies. You can choose from eight different characters, each with their own personality and backstory. You can also choose from a variety of weapons, such as pistols, shotguns, rifles, melee weapons, and explosives.
Left 4 Dead 2 features a dynamic and adaptive gameplay system that changes according to your actions and performance. The AI Director controls the flow of the game, spawning zombies, items, and events based on your situation. The game also features different types of zombies, such as the common infected, the special infected, and the uncommon infected. Each type has its own abilities and behaviors that require different strategies to deal with.
Left 4 Dead 2 is not only a single-player game but also a multiplayer game. You can join up with up to three other players online or offline and play together in the co-op campaign mode or the survival mode. You can also play against other players in the versus mode or the scavenge mode, where you can play as either the survivors or the zombies.
Left 4 Dead 2 is available on Steam for $9.99. It is also included in the Valve Complete Pack for $65.70.
Fallout 4
If you are looking for a post-apocalyptic and open-world zombie game, look no further than Fallout 4. This game is the latest installment of the acclaimed Fallout series, which is set in a retro-futuristic world that has been devastated by a nuclear war. It is a role-playing game that lets you explore, customize, and shape the world as you see fit.
Fallout 4 is set in 2287, in the Commonwealth, which is what remains of Boston and its surrounding areas. You play as either a male or female protagonist who emerges from a cryogenic vault after 200 years. You have to find your missing son, who was kidnapped by a mysterious organization. Along the way, you will encounter various factions, characters, and creatures, some of whom will be friendly or hostile depending on your actions.
Fallout 4 features a vast and detailed world that you can explore at your own pace. You can discover new locations, collect items, craft weapons and armor, and complete quests. You can also build and manage your own settlements, where you can recruit settlers, provide resources, and defend against attacks. You can also customize your character's appearance, skills, perks, and companions.
Fallout 4 also features zombies, or more accurately, ghouls. Ghouls are humans who have been mutated by radiation and have become feral and aggressive. They are one of the many enemies you will face in the game, along with raiders, super mutants, deathclaws, and more. You will have to use your weapons, skills, and tactics to survive against them.
Fallout 4 is available on Steam for $29.99. It is also included in the Fallout Bundle for $59.99.
The Last of Us Part II
If you are looking for a stealthy and cinematic zombie game, look no further than The Last of Us Part II. This game is the sequel to the critically acclaimed The Last of Us, which is widely regarded as one of the best games of all time. It is a story-driven game that focuses on realistic combat, stealth, and exploration.
The Last of Us Part II is set five years after the events of the first game, in a world that has been ravaged by a fungal infection that turns people into zombie-like creatures called the infected. You play as Ellie, a young woman who is on a quest for revenge against a group of people who have wronged her. You will also play as Abby, a former soldier who has a connection to Ellie's past. You will travel across various locations, such as Seattle, Wyoming, and Santa Barbara, and encounter various factions, characters, and enemies.
The Last of Us Part II features a stunning and realistic graphics engine that creates a beautiful and immersive world. The game also features a refined and responsive gameplay system that lets you use various weapons, tools, and skills to fight or avoid your enemies. The game also features a dynamic stealth system that lets you hide, distract, or ambush your enemies. The game also features a new traversal system that lets you jump, climb, swim, and crawl through the environment.
The Last of Us Part II is not only a single-player game but also a multiplayer game. You can play with another player online or offline in the Factions mode, which is a competitive mode that pits two teams of four players against each other. You can also customize your character's appearance, loadout, and skills.
The Last of Us Part II is available on Steam for $59.99. It is also included in The Last of Us Collection for $79.99.
Days Gone
If you are looking for an open-world and action-packed zombie game, look no further than Days Gone. This game is set in a post-apocalyptic Oregon, where you play as Deacon St. John, a former biker who has become a drifter and bounty hunter. You have to survive in a harsh and hostile world, where you will face zombies, human enemies, wildlife, and environmental hazards.
Days Gone features a vast and varied world that you can explore on your motorcycle, which is your main mode of transportation and your best friend. You can customize your bike with different parts and upgrades, as well as repair and refuel it. You can also use your bike to store items, weapons, and ammo.
Days Gone also features a dynamic and unpredictable gameplay system that changes according to your actions and the world around you. The game has a day-night cycle and a weather system that affect the behavior and appearance of the zombies, which are called Freakers. The game also has hordes of Freakers, which are massive groups of zombies that roam the world and can attack you at any time. You will have to use your weapons, skills, and tactics to survive against them.
Days Gone is not only a single-player game but also a multiplayer game. You can play with another player online or offline in the Challenges mode, which is a mode that tests your skills and abilities in various scenarios. You can also unlock new bikes, skins, and items by completing challenges.
Days Gone is available on Steam for $49.99.
World War Z
If you are looking for a co-op and chaotic zombie game, look no further than World War Z. This game is based on the novel and movie of the same name, which depict a global zombie outbreak that threatens humanity. It is a co-op shooter game that lets you team up with up to three other players and fight against swarms of zombies in various locations around the world.
World War Z features a fast and frantic gameplay system that puts you in the middle of epic zombie battles. You can choose from six different classes, such as Gunslinger, Medic, Fixer, Slasher, Hellraiser, and Exterminator. Each class has its own skills, weapons, and perks. You can also customize your character's appearance, loadout, and skills.
World War Z also features a diverse and dynamic gameplay system that changes according to your actions and the environment. The game has four different modes, such as Campaign, Horde Mode, PvPvZ, and Challenge Mode. Each mode has its own objectives, rules, and rewards. The game also has different types of zombies, such as the common infected, the special infected, and the zombie pyramids. Each type has its own abilities and behaviors that require different strategies to deal with.
World War Z is available on Steam for $34.99. It is also included in the World War Z: GOTY Edition for $44.99.
The Future of Zombie RPG Games
Zombie games are not going anywhere anytime soon. They are still one of the most popular and profitable genres in the gaming industry. But what are the trends and challenges for the genre in the coming years?
One of the trends is the increasing use of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies. VR and AR can create more immersive and realistic zombie experiences, as well as new gameplay possibilities. For example, The Walking Dead: Saints & Sinners is a VR game that lets you explore a zombie-infested New Orleans and interact with objects and characters using your hands. Pokemon Go is an AR game that lets you catch and battle zombies in the real world using your smartphone.
Another trend is the increasing diversity and inclusivity of zombie games. Zombie games are becoming more accessible and appealing to a wider range of audiences, by featuring more diverse characters, stories, and settings. For example, The Last of Us Part II features a lesbian protagonist and a transgender character, as well as a complex and nuanced story that explores themes such as revenge, trauma, and forgiveness. Dying Light 2 features a non-linear story that lets you shape the world according to your choices and actions.
One of the challenges is the increasing competition and saturation of zombie games. Zombie games are facing more pressure to stand out from the crowd and offer something new and innovative to the players. Zombie games also have to balance between realism and fun, as well as between horror and action. For example, Days Gone received mixed reviews for its repetitive gameplay and lack of originality. Resident Evil 3 Remake received criticism for its short length and lack of horror elements.
Another challenge is the increasing expectations and demands of zombie game fans. Zombie game fans are becoming more vocal and influential in the gaming community, as well as more discerning and critical of zombie games. Zombie game fans also have different preferences and opinions on what makes a good zombie game. For example, some fans prefer slow and shambling zombies, while others prefer fast and agile zombies. Some fans prefer realistic and gritty zombie games, while others prefer fantastical and humorous zombie games. Some fans prefer single-player and story-driven zombie games, while others prefer multiplayer and gameplay-driven zombie games.
Despite these challenges, zombie games are still one of the most exciting and diverse genres in the gaming industry. They offer a lot of variety, creativity, and fun for both developers and players. They also reflect our fears, hopes, and fantasies about the end of the world and what comes after. Zombie games are not just games, they are experiences.
Conclusion
Zombie RPG games are a subgenre of role-playing games that feature zombies as enemies, allies, or environmental hazards. They are popular because they offer a lot of challenge, excitement, and immersion for the players. They can also explore various themes, such as survival, morality, humanity, and identity.
In this article, we have covered the history of zombie RPG games, the best zombie RPG games on PC right now, and the future of zombie RPG games. We hope that this guide has helped you learn more about the genre and find your next favorite zombie game.
If you are a fan of zombie RPG games, or if you want to become one, you should definitely check out the games we have mentioned in this article. They are all available on Steam, and some of them are also included in bundles or game passes. You can also look for other zombie games that suit your preferences and tastes.
Remember, zombie games are not just games, they are experiences. So grab your weapons, gather your friends, and get ready to survive the apocalypse. And don't forget to have fun!
FAQs
What are some of the benefits of playing zombie RPG games?
Some of the benefits of playing zombie RPG games are:
They can improve your cognitive skills, such as problem-solving, decision-making, memory, and attention.
They can enhance your emotional skills, such as empathy, resilience, and coping.
They can foster your social skills, such as communication, cooperation, and leadership.
They can provide you with entertainment, relaxation, and escapism.
What are some of the drawbacks of playing zombie RPG games?
Some of the drawbacks of playing zombie RPG games are:
They can be addictive, leading to excessive gaming and neglecting other aspects of your life.
They can be violent, graphic, or disturbing, causing negative effects on your mental health or moral values.
They can be expensive, requiring a lot of money to buy or play them.
They can be buggy or glitchy, ruining your gaming experience or causing technical issues.
What are some of the tips for playing zombie RPG games?
Some of the tips for playing zombie RPG games are:
Choose a game that matches your preferences, interests, and skill level.
Read reviews, watch gameplay videos, or try demos before buying or playing a game.
Set a reasonable time limit and take breaks regularly while playing a game.
Play with friends or other players online or offline for more fun and support.
Be respectful and responsible when interacting with other players or communities.
What are some of the resources for learning more about zombie RPG games?
Some of the resources for learning more about zombie RPG games are:
Zombiepedia: A comprehensive wiki that covers everything related to zombies in media and culture.
Zombie Research Society: A website that provides scientific and academic research on zombies and their implications.
Zombie Gamer: A website that features news, reviews, guides, and more on zombie games and culture.
Zombie Podcasts: A list of podcasts that discuss, review, or play zombie games and media.
Zombie Books: A list of books that feature, analyze, or inspire zombie games and media.
What are some of the alternatives to zombie RPG games?
Some of the alternatives to zombie RPG games are:
Vampire RPG games: Games that feature vampires as enemies, allies, or playable characters. Examples are Vampyr, Vampire: The Masquerade - Bloodlines, and Castlevania.
Alien RPG games: Games that feature aliens as enemies, allies, or playable characters. Examples are Mass Effect, XCOM, and Half-Life.
Mutant RPG games: Games that feature mutants as enemies, allies, or playable characters. Examples are BioShock, Borderlands, and Metro.
Demon RPG games: Games that feature demons as enemies, allies, or playable characters. Examples are Doom, Diablo, and Devil May Cry.
Monster RPG games: Games that feature monsters as enemies, allies, or playable characters. Examples are The Witcher, Monster Hunter, and Dark Souls.
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