The world of zombie games is about to get a distinctive spin thanks to the creative minds at Ocean Drive Studio. God Save Birmingham invites players to explore the haunting landscape of medieval England, a departure from typical post-apocalyptic settings. Recently showcased at Gamescom, this early-stage game stands out with its breathtaking scenery and challenging survival mechanics.
Players begin their journey in a dimly lit medieval house, emerging into the muddy town square where market stalls and a distant church beckon. The streets are eerily animated by withered walkers, not the stereotypical high-octane monsters, but more human-like zombies that pose a real threat.
Initially, survival might seem manageable with makeshift weapons like a pitchfork, and threats can be dealt with using simple headstomps. However, complacency is swiftly punished as the game demands strategic planning and precise execution. In one instance, a player can be surrounded in a dark house, overwhelmed by advancing zombies. However, with an axe and renewed caution, a second attempt can lead to the exploration of a church and an ornate manor, revealing new survival opportunities, such as scavenged food to stave off hunger.
Complex Survival Dynamics
The survival dynamics are both intriguing and intricate, as project creative director Hyeonseong Cha explains. Players must constantly manage crucial survival parameters: food, thirst, fatigue, exhaustion, injury, and a ‘panic/fear’ meter. Each decision must be carefully weighed, making even routine actions fraught with risk and urgency.
The game intentionally lacks broader narrative objectives for now. Instead, it focuses on individual survival stories and the varied ways people deal with the chaos. The mechanics demand that players think on their feet—whether deciding when to sprint, tackle, or cautiously open doors, and crafting items, all while managing limited inventory.
Inspiration for God Save Birmingham has been drawn from several sources. Cha highlights Project Zomboid's overwhelming horde elements and the 17th-century plague setting reminiscent of the TV series Kingdom. Such influences contribute to the game's rich atmosphere and complex, immersive gameplay.
The potential for God Save Birmingham lies in its ability to intertwine incredibly lush environments with the ongoing tension of survival. While currently light on narrative and objectives, its development aims to introduce compelling storylines and progression systems. If successful, Ocean Drive Studio’s latest offering could redefine expectations for the zombie survival genre, combining realism with a medieval twist that is sure to captivate players.
