Dead Island is an open-world action-adventure game centered around an island that has been hit by a zombie pandemic. In both single-player and four-player co-op game modes, a player can control one of four characters who have managed to survive the outbreak, including Xian Mei, a former employee of the island's resort, Sam B, a rapper, Logan, a former football star, and Purna, a bodyguard. Each character in Dead Island has their own, unique gameplay style, similar to the concept of a class in an RPG. Xian Mei behaves like a rogue, able to kill her targets quickly and efficiently. Sam B acts as a tank, capable of taking large amounts of damage while avoiding death. Purna is both the buff and assist character, especially useful in a cooperative game. Lastly, Logan is the balanced character, having no noticeable strengths or weaknesses. Between these four unique characters, the player is almost guaranteed to have a desired playstyle during Dead Island's inviting gameplay.
Dead Island's gameplay is focused on melee-based combat, allowing the player to use virtually whatever make-shift weapon he or she can acquire. Additionally, guns are present; however, due to the lack of ammunition on the island, they are not intended to be the main source of combat. Taking a note from Dead Rising 2, Dead Island also utilizes the ability to combine items to create new, more advanced weapons, although they are generally not as extravagant and visually appealing as some of the craftable items in the game it likely borrowed from. Adding to the game's already large arsenal, several vehicles are operable, giving the player multiple options of transportation. Yet, Dead Island has more to offer than what has already been seen in previous zombie games like Dead Rising, assuring to mix up the gameplay with some fresh elements.
Endurance is incorporated into Dead Island's gameplay, allowing the character to sprint until the recharging bar depletes. Additionally, the characters have a special "mode" which will grant them temporary access to a unique skill. Xian Mei, for instance, enters a frenzy in which her slash attacks become significantly quicker and stronger, whereas Sam B grows furious, allowing him strike down zombies in a single blow with only his bare hands.
Endurance is incorporated into Dead Island's gameplay, allowing the character to sprint until the recharging bar depletes. Additionally, the characters have a special "mode" which will grant them temporary access to a unique skill. Xian Mei, for instance, enters a frenzy in which her slash attacks become significantly quicker and stronger, whereas Sam B grows furious, allowing him strike down zombies in a single blow with only his bare hands.
What is arguably the most unique aspect in Dead Island is the damage system. Unlike most games in which the player can aimlessly shoot a zombie and consistently deal equal damage, Dead Island makes targeting specific body parts a crucial technique to learn. For example, if a zombie's legs are struck, it will be significantly slower and easier to avoid, yet it will likely continue to live. Carelessly charging into a horde of zombies will also lead to certain death, as the emptier the stamina bar becomes, the slower the player will attack. Additionally, more powerful zombies exist who cannot be defeated when approached by an unprepared player. Thus, elaborate tactics must be utilized, like locating the zombie's weak spot and striking it at the most opportune moment.
Though there is clearly a storyline that must be followed in order to complete the game, the player is free to roam as soon as he or she has completed the tutorial section of the game, giving the game a true open-world feel. Whether the player aims to complete the game as quickly as possible or venture off on his or her own, personal quest, there is always a viable option available.
Between the game's vast arsenal and numerous, unique gameplay elements, Dead Island will surely offer its players a fresh experience, despite its familiar theme. Combining these aspects with an extraordinary open-world environment, Dead Island will certainly be a fun ride.
Though there is clearly a storyline that must be followed in order to complete the game, the player is free to roam as soon as he or she has completed the tutorial section of the game, giving the game a true open-world feel. Whether the player aims to complete the game as quickly as possible or venture off on his or her own, personal quest, there is always a viable option available.
Between the game's vast arsenal and numerous, unique gameplay elements, Dead Island will surely offer its players a fresh experience, despite its familiar theme. Combining these aspects with an extraordinary open-world environment, Dead Island will certainly be a fun ride.
Dead Island comes to Xbox 360 and Playstation 3 on September 6 in North America and September 9 in all other regions.
Short Version: Dead Island is looking to be the first true sandbox zombie game that uses elements of other, familiar games, yet manages to provide a fresh take on the theme.
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