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”.
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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.”
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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.
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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.
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“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.
Topics: The Last Of Us, Valheim, PC, Steam, Indie Games