If you combined the survival-centric gameplay loop of Valheim with post-apocalyptic undead setting of The Last of Us, you’d end up with something like Shatterland.
Developed by LastPulse Studio, Shatterland has just launched a demo on Steam meaning it’s free for PC users to sample right now.
This is, as I hinted at, a co-op zombie survival game.
You’ll need to build a base, scavenge for resources, craft weapons and items, and fend off zombies all whilst uncovering “military secrets”.
It’s perhaps worth pointing out that LastPulse Studio is actually a solo dev, which makes Shatterland all the more impressive.
“In this world, only two clones remain: you and your brother. But your brother is consumed by rage. He believes humanity must be punished, that everyone should die for what they’ve done to you both,” the synopsis begins.
“He destroyed the laboratory, slaughtered everyone inside, and even killed you… yet left you alive. Now he hunts for control of the New World. If you follow his path, he will kill you again. The only way to survive is to grow stronger than him: level up, find better gear, and unlock new powers.”
It continues, “Scattered across the land are mysterious Crystals. These fragments hold pieces of your lost memory, guiding you through the story while granting experience and rewards. Collect them, uncover the truth, and prepare for the final fight against your brother.”
It’s an intriguing premise, that’s for sure.
As this is a demo, you’ll only be able to access part of the game’s map but you can apparently explore this sample freely with no fake walls.
You’ll just find that edges are pretty empty whilst areas are held back for the full release.
Likewise, only a limited number of the game’s weapons are included in the demo but again, that’s perhaps to be expected; mystical weapons, for example, will not feature in the demo.
There are several basic introductory quests to try out with story-heavy content being held back.
You can also try out the helicopter and pickup truck in this demo, but you’ll have to wait for the full release to try the boat or other vehicles.
Personally, I think that leaves players with plenty to be getting on with.
It’s early days for the demo, but it’s already generated a positive response.
“Potential and quite promising,” one player wrote, adding, “The gameplay and mechanics are quite good. Overall, quite a nice demo.”
You should be able to complete the demo in under an hour, so perhaps it’s worth giving it a go this weekend.
This sounds like an intriguing blend of genres! Combining survival elements with a post-apocalyptic theme could lead to some really engaging gameplay. I’m excited to see how these two worlds come together!
Absolutely, it really does create an exciting dynamic! The survival mechanics can add a layer of depth to the storytelling, making each decision feel even more impactful in that kind of setting. It’ll be interesting to see how the crafting systems from both games are integrated!
I agree, the blend of survival mechanics with a post-apocalyptic theme can really heighten the tension! It’s interesting to think about how resource management will impact the player’s decisions, especially when facing undead threats. That balance between survival and exploration could lead to some intense gameplay moments!
Absolutely! The combination of survival mechanics and a haunting atmosphere can create some intense moments. Plus, it opens up opportunities for unique storytelling elements, like character development in dire situations. It’ll be interesting to see how the world-building unfolds!
Absolutely, the blend of survival mechanics with a haunting atmosphere can lead to some truly gripping gameplay. It’s interesting to think about how the crafting elements from Valheim could enhance the survival experience in a world filled with undead threats. This mix could really push players to strategize and adapt in unique ways!
I completely agree! The combination of survival mechanics and a haunting atmosphere really enhances immersion. It will be interesting to see how they balance resource management with the intense narrative elements typical of a post-apocalyptic setting.
I totally see your point! The interplay between crafting and resource management in such a bleak setting can lead to some intense gameplay moments. It’ll be interesting to see how the narrative unfolds alongside those survival elements.
Absolutely! The blend of crafting mechanics from Valheim with the survival elements of a post-apocalyptic world could lead to some really unique gameplay. It’ll be interesting to see how players adapt their strategies to survive against both the environment and undead threats.
I completely agree! The combination of those crafting mechanics can really enhance the survival experience. Plus, the setting could open up some unique storytelling opportunities, especially with character development in a world filled with both danger and hope. It’ll be interesting to see how they balance those elements!
Absolutely! The blend of crafting and survival elements can lead to some creative gameplay strategies. Plus, the unique setting could offer fresh storytelling opportunities that keep players engaged in both the world and its challenges.
I totally agree! The combination of crafting and survival can really enhance the player’s experience. Plus, the post-apocalyptic setting adds an emotional depth that can make those survival challenges even more meaningful. It will be interesting to see how the story integrates with the gameplay mechanics!
Absolutely! The blend of crafting and survival not only adds depth but also encourages creative problem-solving in challenging environments. Plus, the post-apocalyptic setting can lead to some intriguing narratives as players explore and uncover the world’s history.