Why the Zombie Game Genre Can Never be Defeated

The popularity of the zombie genre amongst gamers is a phenomenon that shows no sign of waning. Countless zombie-themed games have been released across the decades and generations of gamers have lapped them up with equal enthusiasm. So why do we love zombie games so much?

More than just a craze

The Walking Dead video game series is a perfect example of the popularity of the zombie genre. Not only did it become a smash hit in 2012, but it also instigated a revival of the adventure game genre. The series sold over 30 million copies and won many accolades including Game of the Year from several publications. It is ranked as one of the best video games of all time and was released across more than a dozen platforms. In 2021, a Walking Dead game was also released across online slots platforms and has proved hugely popular. But it is just the latest in a long line list of casino slots and video games dedicated to the undead. There are at least a dozen zombie titles due for release across various gaming platforms in 2022 alone.

The attraction of the apocalypse

The concept of a zombie outbreak is simple yet enduring, and the appeal extends well beyond the gaming world. The idea that one bite can turn you into a zombie taps into our fear and excitement of being chased. We are drawn to stories that depict survival against the odds. As for zombies attacks, their army grows, and the odds become more stacked in their favor. The challenge of avoiding that tipping point where all hope of survival is lost and humanity is doomed is what keeps us playing. At a very basic level, a zombie game pits us against the apocalypse.

The hope is kept alive by the fact that zombies are clumsy, not very smart, and generally slow and weak as individuals. Humans feel they have the advantage, providing they do not become outnumbered. Zombies give regular people a fighting chance if they keep their wits about them.

Are we the zombies?

There is also an argument to suggest that the zombies represent humanity as it is now, with everyone trundling off to work in large groups with little thought of individuality. This theory suggests the fight against zombies is a symbolic fight against conforming and being part of the herd. The world has already succumbed to a disease that needs to be defeated before humans can be considered free. This is hinted at in the comedy movie Shaun of the Dead.

Top 2022 releases

Some of the top zombie survival video game titles to look forward to in 2022 include Dying Light 2: Stay Human, The Callisto Protocol, The Day Before, Daymare: 1994 Sandcastle, Evil Dead: The Game, Resident Evil Re: Verse, and Dead Matter.

All look worthy of attention if you are a fan of the genre, with Dying Light 2: Stay Human being the pick of the bunch for those looking for an authentic no-frills zombie apocalypse experience.