The world of zombie apocalypse games welcomes a fresh perspective with UNDYING from Skytone Games and Vanimals. This narrative takes you on an emotional journey with Anling, a mother fighting to protect her young son, Cody, during a relentless zombie outbreak. Imagine the strain of merely surviving when the world crumbles around you. It’s been four daunting months since the undead started to plague the earth, and in what was supposed to be a rescue mission at a military-set camp, plans spiraled out of control. As the ceiling gave way under zombie pressure, Anling was left with the looming deadline of her own mortality due to a zombie bite. Her mission? Teach Cody the skills to fend for himself in this grim world before time runs out. The game begins at their home, a place that now acts as the starting point for scavenging crucial resources to prolong their survival.
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In terms of gameplay, UNDYING offers a survival experience that can be tailored to your preference with three difficulty modes: Tranquil, Adventure, and Fierce. The Tranquil mode offers a slower pace, fitting for those who favor exploration without constant threats. Adventure mode ramps up the scarcity, making every resource valuable, while Fierce mode demands constant vigilance, as danger looms nearer with every step. Survival isn’t guaranteed—can you adapt to every new challenge?
Once in the game, control Anling using the left analog stick, with young Cody following her lead. Stealth mode can be activated by pressing in on the left stick, while interactions require the B button. Players must decide who picks up what between Anling and Cody. Attacks are executed with the ZR button, and targets can be locked onto with the right stick. Cody’s movements can be directed to either stay put, follow, or assist Anling using the same stick. Holding R lets Anling hold Cody’s hand, providing much-needed comfort in tense situations.
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Keep a keen eye on Anling and Cody’s vital stats like HP, food, and hydration. Moreover, track attributes like attack power, speed, and more. Cody’s stats, too, need monitoring as they are crucial for survival. Check Anling’s symptoms to preempt her gradual transformation and manage any impairing effects in this transformed world.
Resource management is key. Perhaps you’ll come across ways to enhance your gear and increase your chance of survival, imparting necessary skills to Cody in the meantime. Backpack upgrades can expand your carrying capacity significantly. A fully kitted-out backpack with numerous empty slots could boost your speed, potentially saving you from danger. That speed could be what stands between life and a grim end when gathering valuable resources.
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Skill development for Cody is imperative. As you progress, Cody gains experience points which you can use to unlock advanced skills in crafting, survival, and combat. Striking a balance is crucial for his success in the apocalypse. Cody’s crafting prowess could vastly improve, allowing him to build necessary items, while scavenging skills might reveal hidden treasures. With time, perhaps he’ll even learn to hunt and confront enemies efficiently.
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The haunting reality Anling faces doesn’t only serve as a narrative thread but captures a profound bond amidst ruin. Anling’s impending fate compels a bittersweet urgency—to impart knowledge and survival skills to Cody before she transitions into the very threat they’ve spent their lives dodging. UNDYING is now available on Nintendo Switch, priced at $19.99. This tale of survival isn’t just about facing zombies; it’s about legacy and preparation for a seemingly unforgiving future.
Reflect on the resilience of the human spirit faced with inevitable tragedy. Are you ready to guide Cody in adapting to this brutal new reality?
Special thanks to Skystone Games for providing a review copy of UNDYING for Nintendo Switch.
