Much like the game’s zombies, State of Decay 3 is somehow still alive
Amid Microsoft's hacking and slashing of its Xbox division , you wouldn't be crazy for thinking State of Decay 3 was dead. After all, the title was announced nearly six years ago , and, well, we haven't heard much since. But the survival game is still in the pipeline, and developer Undead Labs will hold a series of playtests beginning in May. In the announcement, franchise co-creator Brant Fitzgerald emphasized the role of community input in the game's continued development. "We've read your feedback on Discord, we've watched your gameplay clips and livestreams on YouTube," he said. "It became clear that community is survival — and that we need your help." The Alpha playtests will include four-player co-op, new base building and resource strategies and plenty of combat. "If scavenging supplies in the middle of a zombie outbreak sounds fun to you, then grab your ruck, pack some mags and head over to our website to find more information and register for a chance to be included in the Alpha," Fitzgerald said. Assuming it eventually launches, State of Decay 3 will be available for Xbox and PC . You can sign up for the playtest on the game's website . Undead Labs warned that not everyone will be selected for the first round, but they'll keep your names on the list for future opportunities later this year. This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/gaming/xbox/much-like-the-games-zombies-state-of-decay-3-is-somehow-still-alive-170709155.html?src=rss
In a world where many games are announced and then quietly buried, State of Decay 3 has managed to cling to life, much like the undead it features. Despite Microsoft's recent restructuring of its Xbox division, which has seen the cancellation of several projects, the survival horror game has not been entirely forgotten. Announced nearly six years ago, State of Decay 3 has been a enigma in the gaming community, with little to no updates on its progress. However, recent developments have revealed that the game is still very much alive, with developer Undead Labs set to host a series of playtests starting in May.
The announcement of these playtests comes with a renewed focus on the community, a group that has been vocal in their support and feedback for the game. Franchise co-creator Brant Fitzgerald highlighted the importance of community input in the game's development, stating, "We've read your feedback on Discord, we've watched your gameplay clips and livestreams on YouTube." He continued, "It became clear that community is survival — and that we need your help." This emphasis on community engagement is a testament to the enduring interest in the game and the developers' commitment to creating a product that resonates with players.
The Alpha playtests, set to begin in May, will feature a range of new gameplay elements, including four-player co-op, enhanced base building, and innovative resource strategies. Additionally, the game will offer plenty of combat, ensuring that players can experience the thrill of scavenging supplies amidst a zombie outbreak. Fitzgerald encouraged potential players to sign up for the Alpha, saying, "If scavenging supplies in the middle of a zombie outbreak sounds fun to you, then grab your ruck, pack some mags and head over to our website to find more information and register for a chance to be included in the Alpha."
Assuming the game eventually launches, State of Decay 3 will be available on both Xbox and PC platforms. Undead Labs has made it clear that not everyone will be selected for the initial playtest round, but they will keep names on the list for future opportunities later this year. This approach allows the developers to gather a diverse range of feedback while also giving more players a chance to participate in the development process.
The survival game genre has seen its fair share of ups and downs over the years, with some titles fading into obscurity while others remain beloved. State of Decay 3's resilience can be attributed to its dedicated fanbase and the developers' willingness to listen and adapt. By incorporating community feedback and showcasing new features through playtests, Undead Labs is demonstrating its commitment to creating a game that not only survives but thrives in a competitive market.
The upcoming playtests are a significant step forward for State of Decay 3, providing players with an opportunity to shape the game's future. As the game continues to develop, it serves as a reminder of the power of community and the importance of staying true to the core elements that made the series popular in the first place. For those who have been waiting patiently for updates, the news of the playtests is a welcome sign that the game is still very much alive, and that the undead are far from finished.
In the ever-changing landscape of the gaming industry, State of Decay 3's ability to endure is a testament to the enduring appeal of the survival horror genre. With a renewed focus on community input and a host of new features, the game is poised to make a significant impact when it finally launches. For now, players can look forward to the upcoming playtests and the opportunity to be a part of the game's evolution. As the developers work tirelessly to bring State of Decay 3 to life, the game's survival is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, the spirit of the undead can endure.
