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 the midst of Microsoft's ongoing restructuring of its Xbox division, it's easy to wonder if projects like State of Decay 3 have been quietly buried. The game was first announced nearly six years ago, and since then, there has been a deafening silence. However, despite the rumors of its demise, the survival-themed game is still very much alive, with developer Undead Labs set to host a series of playtests starting in May.
The announcement comes as a relief for fans who have been eagerly awaiting updates on the game. In a recent statement, franchise co-creator Brant Fitzgerald highlighted the importance of community input in the game's development. "We've been paying close attention to your feedback on Discord, we've watched your gameplay clips and livestreams on YouTube," Fitzgerald said. "It became clear that the community is survival—and that we need your help."
The Alpha playtests, which are set to begin in May, will feature a range of new gameplay elements, including four-player co-op, innovative base-building mechanics, and enhanced resource strategies. Combat will also be a significant focus, with developers promising plenty of action-packed encounters. Fitzgerald encouraged potential players to sign up for the playtests, 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 sees a launch, State of Decay 3 will be available on both Xbox and PC platforms. Undead Labs has opened sign-ups for the playtests on the game's official website, but developers warned that not everyone will be selected for the first round. However, they assured that names will be carried forward for future opportunities later this year.
The decision to involve the community in the development process is a testament to the strong relationship between Undead Labs and its fan base. By actively seeking feedback and incorporating it into the game, the developers are demonstrating a commitment to creating a title that resonates with players.
The survival genre has seen its fair share of ups and downs in recent years, with some titles struggling to find their footing. However, State of Decay 3 seems poised to capitalize on the genre's enduring popularity. With a focus on cooperative gameplay and strategic resource management, the game promises to offer a fresh take on the zombie apocalypse narrative.
As the playtests approach, fans are left to wonder what exactly Undead Labs has in store for them. The Alpha tests will provide valuable insights into the game's direction, and the opportunity to shape the final product is undoubtedly exciting for participants.
In the ever-evolving landscape of the gaming industry, it's refreshing to see a project like State of Decay 3 persevere in the face of adversity. With Microsoft's restructuring and the game's prolonged development cycle, many had written it off as a lost cause. Yet, here it is, still alive and ready to make its mark. The upcoming playtests not only offer a glimpse into the game's future but also serve as a reminder of the power of community and the importance of staying true to one's vision.
