Project Zomboid Review

Surviving the Apocalypse, 1 day at a time

If you're a fan of survival horror and are looking for a deep, challenging experience, Project Zomboid should be high on your list. Created by indie developer The Indie Stone, this zombie apocalypse survival game is unlike many others, combining a punishing difficulty with surprising depth, all wrapped in retro graphics reminiscent of The Sims. It’s currently available on Steam in Early Access, where it continues to evolve with updates and community feedback.

Gameplay

At its core, Project Zomboid is about survival—not just against hordes of zombies but also against hunger, thirst, injuries and the elements. One of the most satisfying parts of the game is finding and fortifying a base, turning an abandoned building into your own stronghold. As you scavenge for supplies and materials, you’ll learn how to construct walls, doors, and barricades to defend against the undead. But safety comes at a cost; even in a fortified base, you’ll have to venture out to hunt for food, medical supplies, and tools, putting you at constant risk.

Resource gathering is essential. To secure your base, you’ll need wood for building and crafting, which often means chopping down trees or salvaging nearby materials. As you learn survival skills, you can craft everything from furniture to rain collectors, adding layers of customization to your base. Building, defending and scavenging makes each day feel both dangerous and rewarding.

Graphics & Atmosphere

The graphics have a retro charm, feeling similar to The Sims. The top-down isometric view is simplistic, but it fits the tone, allowing you to focus on survival rather than flashy visuals. Despite the basic visuals, the game's atmosphere is haunting. The sound design is top-notch, with eerie ambient noises that heighten tension, especially during nighttime or when you're trying to sneak past zombies.

Pros

• Realism & Depth: From hunger to depression, Project Zomboid considers every aspect of surviving in a zombie apocalypse.
• Base-Building: Building and fortifying a base adds a strategic layer to survival, allowing for creativity and replayability.
• Customization: Sandbox mode lets you customize zombie behavior, loot rarity and other settings, allowing for a unique experience each time.
• Multiplayer Fun: Teaming up with friends to scavenge and defend your safe house adds a social, strategic element that enhances the experience.

Cons

• High Difficulty: This game is not for everyone, as it has a steep learning curve and can be unforgiving, especially for newcomers.
• Outdated Graphics: While the graphics work for some, others may find the retro visuals a bit too basic in 2024’s era of high-definition gaming.
• Limited Narrative: The game is light on story, so if you're looking for character-driven narratives or quests, it might feel a bit empty.

Verdict

Project Zomboid is a game with incredible depth that shines for players who enjoy hardcore survival challenges. It’s not visually flashy, and its difficulty can be punishing, but if you’re willing to immerse yourself in its unique, sandbox-style world, there’s nothing quite like it. Available on Steam in Early Access, Project Zomboid is a hidden gem that offers a brutal yet rewarding survival experience—just be prepared to die. Often.