Understanding the Genre of Zombies in Gaming: A Comprehensive Guide to Zombie Games

Zombies have been a popular fixture in the world of gaming for decades, captivating players with their terrifying, undead presence. But what exactly is the genre of the zombie? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the world of zombie games and explore the different sub-genres that make up this fascinating gaming category. From survival horror to first-person shooters, we’ll take a closer look at the unique features that define each sub-genre and what makes them so appealing to gamers. So grab your shotgun and get ready to learn all about the undead world of zombie games!

The Appeal of Zombies in Gaming

The Origins of Zombies in Pop Culture

Zombies have been a popular trope in pop culture for decades, and their appeal is not hard to understand. Zombies are the embodiment of our deepest fears – the fear of death, the fear of losing our humanity, and the fear of being overwhelmed by a horde of mindless creatures. This fear is what makes zombies such a compelling and terrifying creature, and it is what has made them a staple of horror films, books, and video games.

The origins of zombies in pop culture can be traced back to Haitian folklore, where they were believed to be the reanimated corpses of people who had died and been buried. These zombies were said to be controlled by a voodoo sorcerer, who had the power to bring the dead back to life. The concept of zombies quickly spread to other parts of the world, and in the 1930s, the first zombie film was released.

Over the years, zombies have evolved from being slow-moving, mindless creatures to intelligent, fast-moving monsters. The modern zombie, as we know it today, was popularized by the 1968 film “Night of the Living Dead,” which introduced the idea of a zombie apocalypse – a world overrun by hordes of the undead. This concept has since been explored in countless films, books, and video games, each adding its own unique twist to the zombie mythos.

In video games, zombies have become a staple of the horror genre, with games like “Resident Evil” and “The Walking Dead” becoming household names. These games often focus on survival, with players having to navigate a world overrun by zombies, scavenging for supplies and fighting off hordes of the undead. The popularity of these games has only increased in recent years, with the rise of mobile games and the emergence of online multiplayer games.

In conclusion, the appeal of zombies in gaming lies in their ability to tap into our deepest fears and to create a sense of dread and unease. The origins of zombies in pop culture can be traced back to Haitian folklore, but their evolution over the years has led to the modern zombie as we know it today – a fast-moving, intelligent monster that has become a staple of the horror genre in video games.

The Psychology Behind Zombies’ Popularity

• Exploring the Human Fear of Death and Decay
  • The Thanatophobia and Necrophobia
    • The fear of death and decay as a reflection of human mortality
    • The cultural and psychological significance of death and decay in society
  • The visceral and primal nature of zombies as a manifestation of these fears
    • The undead, mindless, and seemingly unstoppable nature of zombies
    • The association of zombies with bodily decay, infection, and contagion
• The Escapist Function of Zombies in Gaming
  • The cathartic release of violence and aggression
    • The justification of violence in a controlled and safe environment
    • The satisfaction of overcoming an insurmountable threat
  • The exploration of societal issues and fears through the zombie narrative
    • The commentary on the dangers of mob mentality and loss of individuality
    • The reflection on the potential consequences of societal collapse and breakdown of order
• The Emotional Connection to Zombies in Gaming
  • The identification with the protagonist’s struggle for survival
    • The relatability of the human experience in a zombie apocalypse
    • The empathy for the characters’ growth and development
  • The thrill of the adrenaline-fueled action and suspense
    • The excitement of facing impossible odds and emerging victorious
    • The rush of escaping narrow escapes and overcoming challenges

Types of Zombies in Gaming

Classic Zombies

Classic zombies are a staple in the zombie genre of gaming. These zombies are often depicted as slow-moving, mindless creatures that are easily dispatched by the player. They are usually the first type of zombie that players encounter in a game and serve as a basic enemy that the player must overcome.

Characteristics

• Slow movement: Classic zombies are known for their slow and shuffling movement, making them relatively easy to avoid or outrun.
• Mindless: These zombies have no higher intelligence and are driven solely by their hunger for human flesh.
• Weak: Classic zombies are typically weak and can be easily killed with a single hit or a few shots.

Origins

The classic zombie is derived from Haitian folklore, where it is believed that a person can be turned into a zombie through various means such as voodoo curses or poison. In gaming, classic zombies are often used as a metaphor for a viral outbreak or a government experiment gone wrong.

Popular Examples

• Resident Evil series: The classic zombies in this series are infected with a virus and have become mindless creatures that attack anything in their path.
• Call of Duty: Black Ops: In this game, the classic zombies are the result of a government experiment that has gone wrong, causing the dead to rise and attack the living.
• World War Z: In this game, the classic zombies are the result of a global pandemic that has turned the majority of the population into mindless creatures.

Challenges

One of the main challenges of classic zombies is their sheer numbers. Since they are relatively easy to kill, game designers often use large numbers of them to overwhelm the player. This can make for a tense and intense gaming experience, as the player must fight their way through hordes of undead enemies.

Another challenge of classic zombies is their predictability. Since they are relatively simple creatures, they can become repetitive and predictable if not varied enough. Game designers must be careful to mix up the types of classic zombies and add new mechanics to keep the gameplay fresh and interesting.

Infected or Mutated Humans

In gaming, zombies often come in different forms, and one of the most common types is infected or mutated humans. These zombies are typically humans who have been infected by a virus, a toxin, or some other kind of agent that turns them into the undead. The virus can be a man-made creation, a natural outbreak, or even an experiment gone wrong.

One of the key characteristics of infected or mutated humans is their intense hunger for human flesh. They will stop at nothing to feed on the living, and their strength, speed, and agility increase as they consume more and more brains. In many games, the player must use their wits and weapons to survive against these relentless undead hordes.

There are many variations of infected or mutated humans in gaming, each with their own unique abilities and weaknesses. For example, some may be highly resistant to damage, while others may be more susceptible to fire or explosions. Some may be slow and lumbering, while others may be fast and agile.

Overall, infected or mutated humans are a common and popular type of zombie in gaming, offering players a thrilling and terrifying experience as they fight for survival against the undead hordes.

Undead Animals

In the world of gaming, zombies come in all shapes and sizes, each with their own unique characteristics and behaviors. One of the most intriguing types of zombies is the undead animal. These creatures are not only terrifying to behold, but they also pose a significant threat to the player’s survival.

The Walking Dead

One of the most popular zombie games, The Walking Dead, features undead animals that are both frightening and fascinating. These animals, including zombie dogs and zombie bears, are some of the most formidable enemies that players will encounter. Their sheer size and strength make them difficult to evade, and their relentless pursuit can be truly harrowing.

Resident Evil

Another well-known franchise that features undead animals is Resident Evil. In this series, players will encounter all manner of zombified creatures, from mutated dogs to giant spiders. These undead animals are often used as obstacles to prevent the player from progressing, and they are often accompanied by other, more traditional zombie enemies.

World War Z

World War Z is a game that focuses heavily on the undead animal genre. In this game, players must contend with hordes of zombie animals, including swarms of rats and waves of infected bulls. These creatures are incredibly difficult to take down, and players must use a variety of weapons and tactics to survive.

Overall, undead animals are a crucial part of the zombie genre in gaming. They add a new level of fear and challenge to the player, and their unique abilities and behaviors make them a fascinating foe. Whether players are fighting off zombie dogs in The Walking Dead or facing down a horde of infected bulls in World War Z, the undead animal is a force to be reckoned with.

Gameplay Mechanics of Zombie Games

Survival Horror

Survival horror is a subgenre of horror games that focuses on the player’s survival against threatening creatures or situations. In zombie games, survival horror often involves the player fighting off hordes of undead creatures while trying to survive and find a way to escape. The gameplay mechanics of survival horror games often involve exploration, resource management, and combat.

• Exploration: Survival horror games often require the player to explore their environment in order to find resources, weapons, and clues that can help them survive. This often involves navigating through dark and dangerous areas, such as abandoned buildings or city streets overrun by zombies.
• Resource Management: Resource management is another key aspect of survival horror games. Players must manage their inventory, finding and hoarding valuable items such as weapons, ammunition, and health kits. They must also conserve resources, such as ammunition and medicine, to ensure their survival.
• Combat: Combat is a central mechanic in most zombie games, and survival horror games in general. Players must use a variety of weapons and tactics to fight off the undead creatures that threaten their survival. Combat often involves using stealth to avoid detection, taking cover to avoid attacks, and using various weapons to dispatch zombies quickly and efficiently.

Survival horror games often create a sense of tension and fear as players navigate through dangerous environments and fight off zombies. The focus on survival adds an extra layer of challenge, as players must make difficult decisions about how to allocate resources and prioritize their actions. Overall, survival horror is a thrilling and terrifying subgenre of zombie games that challenges players to survive against all odds.

First-Person Shooters

In first-person shooter games, players take on the role of a character who must fight off hordes of zombies using various weapons and tactics. These games often have a strong emphasis on combat, with players engaging in intense firefights against waves of undead enemies. The gameplay mechanics of first-person shooter zombie games can vary widely, but they typically involve elements such as:

• Weapon selection: Players can choose from a variety of weapons, such as guns, knives, and other melee weapons, to fight off the zombie hordes. Some games also feature special weapons, such as explosives or traps, that can be used to take out large groups of zombies at once.
• Zombie types: Some first-person shooter zombie games feature different types of zombies, each with their own unique abilities and weaknesses. For example, some zombies may be slow-moving but hard to kill, while others may be fast and agile but vulnerable to headshots.
• Survival mechanics: In addition to combat, first-person shooter zombie games often include survival mechanics, such as scavenging for supplies, managing hunger and thirst, and avoiding disease and injury. These mechanics can add an extra layer of challenge to the game, as players must balance their need to stay alive with their desire to eliminate the zombie threat.
• Multiplayer modes: Many first-person shooter zombie games feature multiplayer modes, where players can team up with friends to take on the zombie hordes. These modes can include cooperative gameplay, where players work together to complete objectives, or competitive gameplay, where players compete against each other to see who can score the most kills.
• Story elements: While combat is the primary focus of first-person shooter zombie games, some games also include story elements, such as cutscenes or dialogue, to provide context and depth to the game world. These story elements can help players become more invested in the game, and can provide a sense of narrative progression as players progress through the game.

Base Building and Tower Defense

One of the most prominent gameplay mechanics in zombie games is base building and tower defense. In these games, players must construct and upgrade a base to protect themselves from hordes of zombies. The goal is to survive as long as possible, while also gathering resources and equipment to improve the base and the player’s chances of survival.

There are several key elements to consider when it comes to base building and tower defense in zombie games:

• Resource Gathering: Players must gather resources such as wood, metal, and food to build and upgrade their base. These resources can be found by scavenging the environment, completing quests, or trading with other players.
• Building and Upgrading: Players can use the resources they gather to build and upgrade various structures in their base, such as walls, turrets, and traps. These structures can help defend against zombies and other threats, as well as provide benefits such as increased storage space or crafting capabilities.
• Strategic Placement: Placing structures in strategic locations is crucial to survival in base building and tower defense games. Players must consider the flow of zombies, the strengths and weaknesses of different types of zombies, and the layout of their base to maximize their chances of survival.
• Managing Resources: Players must also manage their resources effectively to ensure their survival. This may involve balancing the need to gather resources with the need to fortify the base, or making tough decisions about which resources to prioritize.

Overall, base building and tower defense are essential mechanics in many zombie games, requiring players to think strategically, manage resources effectively, and adapt to changing circumstances as they struggle to survive against the relentless hordes of the undead.

Famous Zombie Games

Resident Evil Series

The Resident Evil series is a popular survival horror game franchise that has been around since 1996. The series is known for its terrifying and immersive gameplay, as well as its iconic characters and storylines. The series has spawned numerous sequels, spin-offs, and adaptations, including films and novels.

Gameplay

The Resident Evil series is known for its survival horror gameplay, which emphasizes exploration, puzzle-solving, and combat. Players take on the role of characters who are trying to survive a zombie apocalypse, often with limited resources and weapons. The series is known for its intense atmosphere, and the gameplay often involves navigating dark and creepy environments while avoiding or fighting off zombies.

Characters and Storylines

The Resident Evil series has a complex and intricate storyline that spans multiple games and timelines. The series is known for its memorable characters, including protagonists like Leon S. Kennedy and Claire Redfield, as well as antagonists like Albert Wesker and Alexia Ashford. The storylines often involve government conspiracies, bio-organic weapons, and other science fiction elements, making the series stand out from other zombie games.

Notable Sequels and Spin-Offs

The Resident Evil series has numerous sequels and spin-offs, including Resident Evil 2, Resident Evil 3, Resident Evil 7: Biohazard, and Resident Evil Village. Each game has its own unique storyline and gameplay mechanics, but they all share the same survival horror gameplay and zombie-infested environments.

In addition to the main series, there are also several spin-off games, such as Resident Evil Revelations and Resident Evil Outbreak, which offer a different take on the series’ gameplay and storylines. The series has also been adapted into several films, with the most recent being Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City, which was released in 2021.

Call of Duty: Black Ops

Call of Duty: Black Ops is a popular first-person shooter game that was released in 2010. The game’s zombie mode, known as “Nazi Zombies,” quickly became a fan favorite and has since become a staple of the Call of Duty franchise. In this mode, players must work together to survive waves of zombies, using a variety of weapons and tactics to fend off the undead horde.

One of the key features of Call of Duty: Black Ops’ zombie mode is its rich storyline. Players take on the roles of various characters, each with their own unique backstory and motivations. As players progress through the game, they uncover the secrets of the zombie outbreak and the dark history of the Nazi regime.

Another notable aspect of Call of Duty: Black Ops’ zombie mode is its replayability. Each game is unique, with randomized elements such as the placement of weapons and power-ups. This means that no two games are ever the same, keeping players engaged and coming back for more.

Overall, Call of Duty: Black Ops’ zombie mode is a prime example of the genre at its best. With its engaging storyline, challenging gameplay, and high replayability, it’s no wonder that it has become a fan favorite among zombie game enthusiasts.

Left 4 Dead Series

The Left 4 Dead series is a popular first-person shooter game that has gained a massive following among gamers worldwide. The series, developed by Valve Corporation, comprises two main games, Left 4 Dead and Left 4 Dead 2, as well as several expansion packs.

The Left 4 Dead series revolves around four survivors, who must navigate through hordes of zombies to reach their destination, usually a safe haven. Players can choose from a variety of characters, each with unique abilities and weapons. The gameplay is cooperative, with players working together to overcome obstacles and defeat the undead.

Storyline

The Left 4 Dead series is set in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies. The survivors must navigate through the city, avoiding zombie-infested areas and finding safe passage to their destination. The storyline is engaging and keeps players on the edge of their seats, with new challenges and obstacles appearing in each level.

Sound and Graphics

The Left 4 Dead series is known for its immersive sound and graphics. The sound effects are realistic, with players hearing the screams of the dying and the moans of the undead. The graphics are also top-notch, with detailed environments and lifelike zombie models.

Difficulty

The Left 4 Dead series is challenging, with players needing to work together to overcome the hordes of zombies. The difficulty level increases as players progress through the levels, with more challenging obstacles and more aggressive zombies appearing.

Conclusion

The Left 4 Dead series is a classic zombie game that has captured the hearts of gamers worldwide. With its engaging storyline, challenging gameplay, and immersive sound and graphics, it is no wonder that the series has become a fan favorite. Whether you are a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to the world of zombie games, the Left 4 Dead series is definitely worth a try.

Zombie Games: The Future of Gaming?

Technological Advancements in Zombie Games

The world of gaming has come a long way since the early days of pixelated characters and simple storylines. Today, advancements in technology have enabled game developers to create immersive gaming experiences that transport players to entirely new worlds. The zombie genre, in particular, has seen significant technological advancements in recent years, making it one of the most popular genres in gaming today.

Realistic Graphics and Animations

One of the most significant advancements in zombie games is the realistic graphics and animations. With the advent of more powerful gaming consoles and PCs, game developers can now create detailed and highly realistic environments and characters. This level of detail makes the gaming experience more immersive and intense, making players feel like they are truly in the midst of a zombie apocalypse.

Advanced AI and Physics Engines

Another technological advancement in zombie games is the advanced AI and physics engines. These engines allow for more realistic and intelligent behavior from the zombies, making them more challenging and unpredictable. They also allow for more realistic physics, such as the ability to interact with the environment and objects in the game world. This adds a new level of realism to the gaming experience and makes it more engaging for players.

Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality Integration

The latest technological advancement in zombie games is the integration of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technology. With VR and AR, players can experience the game in a whole new way, with immersive 3D environments and the ability to interact with the game world in a more realistic way. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the gaming industry and take zombie games to a whole new level of immersion and realism.

Overall, the technological advancements in zombie games have made them more immersive, intense, and realistic than ever before. With continued advancements in technology, it’s exciting to think about what the future holds for this popular genre of gaming.

The Continuing Evolution of the Genre

• The popularity of zombie games has been steadily increasing over the years, with new games and new mechanics being introduced to the genre.
• The evolution of the genre can be attributed to advancements in technology, which have allowed game developers to create more immersive and realistic games.
• The continued evolution of the genre has also led to the creation of new sub-genres, such as survival horror and tower defense, which have further expanded the possibilities of what can be achieved in a zombie game.
• As technology continues to advance, it is likely that the genre will continue to evolve and grow, with new and exciting games being developed that push the boundaries of what is possible in the world of gaming.

The Enduring Appeal of Zombies in Gaming

Zombies have been a popular trope in gaming for several decades, with the first known zombie game being “The House of the Dead” released in 1996. Since then, the popularity of zombie games has continued to grow, with numerous titles across various platforms and genres. The enduring appeal of zombies in gaming can be attributed to several factors, including the following:

The Thrill of Survival

One of the primary reasons for the appeal of zombie games is the thrill of survival. Players are often placed in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies, where they must fight to survive against all odds. The constant threat of death and the need to make difficult decisions to stay alive adds an element of excitement and adrenaline to the gameplay.

The Variety of Gameplay Mechanics

Zombie games offer a wide range of gameplay mechanics, from first-person shooters to strategy games to survival horror. This variety allows players to experience the genre in different ways, catering to different playstyles and preferences. The different mechanics also add to the replayability of the games, as players can try out different approaches and strategies.

The Opportunity for Customization

Many zombie games offer players the opportunity to customize their characters, weapons, and equipment. This customization allows players to tailor their experience to their preferred playstyle, adding a level of personalization to the game. Additionally, the opportunity to collect and upgrade weapons and equipment adds a sense of progression and accomplishment to the game.

The Emotional Connection to the Undead

Zombies are often seen as a representation of the primal fears and anxieties of society. The undead are a symbol of the end of civilization and the breakdown of social order. Players may feel a sense of connection to the zombies, as they too are struggling to survive in a world overrun by the undead. This emotional connection to the zombies adds a layer of depth to the gameplay, as players must navigate their feelings about the zombies while trying to stay alive.

In conclusion, the enduring appeal of zombies in gaming can be attributed to the thrill of survival, the variety of gameplay mechanics, the opportunity for customization, and the emotional connection to the undead. These factors contribute to the ongoing popularity of zombie games and their status as a beloved genre in gaming.

The Impact of Zombie Games on Gaming Culture

• Popularity and Mainstream Acceptance
  Zombie games have seen a meteoric rise in popularity, becoming a staple of the gaming industry. The undead apocalypse has captivated audiences worldwide, making zombie games a mainstay of the gaming culture. This has led to the emergence of a zombie-themed subculture within the gaming community, where fans gather to discuss and share their love for these games.
• Innovation and Diversity
  The zombie genre has also pushed the boundaries of innovation and diversity in gaming. Developers have explored new mechanics, such as base building and survival elements, to keep the genre fresh and engaging. The introduction of cooperative multiplayer modes has fostered a sense of community and collaboration among players, adding a new dimension to the gaming experience.
• Influence on Other Genres
  Zombie games have also had a profound impact on other genres within gaming. The survival horror genre, for instance, has been heavily influenced by the mechanics and themes of zombie games. Similarly, the rise of battle royale games can be seen as a response to the popularity of zombie games, with their focus on survival and strategic gameplay.
• Social Commentary
  Finally, zombie games have also provided a platform for social commentary and reflection on contemporary issues. Many games in the genre address themes such as societal breakdown, governmental collapse, and the struggle for survival in a world gone mad. These themes resonate with players, making the games not just entertaining, but also thought-provoking and insightful.

In conclusion, the impact of zombie games on gaming culture has been significant and far-reaching. From popularity and innovation to influence and social commentary, the undead apocalypse has left its mark on the gaming industry, and it is unlikely to fade away anytime soon.

The Future of Zombie Games

As the popularity of zombie games continues to soar, it’s clear that this genre is here to stay. But what does the future hold for zombie games? Here are some of the trends and developments that we can expect to see in the years to come:

Evolution of Zombie Game Mechanics

One of the most exciting aspects of the future of zombie games is the potential for new and innovative game mechanics. As developers continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in gaming, we can expect to see more complex and challenging gameplay mechanics that take the zombie genre to new heights.

For example, some developers are exploring the idea of “symbiotic zombies” – zombies that are not entirely mindless, but instead have some level of intelligence and even the ability to communicate with each other. This would add a whole new layer of complexity to the zombie game experience, as players would have to contend with a more intelligent and coordinated enemy.

Another trend that’s gaining popularity is the idea of “player-controlled zombies” – where players take on the role of a zombie, rather than fighting against them. This would give players a unique perspective on the zombie apocalypse, and allow them to experience the world from a completely different angle.

Increased Focus on Storytelling

Another area where zombie games are likely to see significant development in the future is in the realm of storytelling. As the genre matures, developers are increasingly recognizing the importance of a compelling narrative to keep players engaged.

One trend that’s already emerging is the use of branching storylines and player choice. This allows players to shape the course of the story in meaningful ways, adding a new level of depth and replayability to the game.

Another development that’s worth watching is the use of interactive cutscenes – where players can make choices that affect the outcome of the story in real-time, rather than just being a passive observer. This would give players a greater sense of agency and control over the story, and could be a game-changer for the genre.

Emphasis on Multiplayer Experiences

Finally, as the gaming landscape continues to shift towards online experiences, it’s likely that we’ll see more emphasis on multiplayer gameplay in the zombie genre. This could take many forms, from cooperative gameplay to competitive matches where players fight to survive against each other.

One trend that’s already emerging is the use of player-vs-player (PvP) gameplay within the context of a zombie apocalypse. This adds a new layer of complexity to the game, as players must not only contend with the undead, but also with other survivors who may be competing for the same resources.

Another development to watch is the use of asynchronous multiplayer gameplay – where players can team up with each other even if they’re not online at the same time. This would allow for more flexible and spontaneous cooperative gameplay, as players could join forces with each other even if they don’t have the same schedule.

Overall, the future of zombie games looks bright, with many exciting developments on the horizon. Whether you’re a fan of the genre or just curious about what’s next, there’s never been a better time to be a zombie game enthusiast.

Final Thoughts

• Zombie games have proven to be a popular and enduring genre in gaming, with new titles and adaptations continually emerging.
• The appeal of zombie games lies in their ability to engage players in thrilling, immersive experiences that test their survival skills and push them to confront their fears.
• The genre’s success can be attributed to its versatility, as it can be adapted to various settings, styles, and platforms, making it accessible to a wide range of players.
• The future of gaming will likely see continued innovation and evolution in the zombie genre, with advancements in technology and game design allowing for even more immersive and realistic experiences.
• Overall, zombie games represent a dynamic and exciting aspect of the gaming world, one that is sure to captivate and entertain players for years to come.

FAQs

1. What is the genre of the zombie?

The zombie genre is a sub-genre of horror that focuses on the undead, typically depicting them as mindless monsters that feed on the living. It has become a popular theme in various forms of media, including video games, movies, and literature.

2. What are some common characteristics of zombie games?

Zombie games often involve survival gameplay, where the player must navigate a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies. They often include elements of horror, with the undead being the primary antagonists. The games also often involve scavenging for resources, crafting weapons, and fortifying safe havens.

3. What are some popular zombie games?

Some popular zombie games include “The Walking Dead: The Game,” “Resident Evil,” “Left 4 Dead,” “Dying Light,” and “The Last of Us.” These games offer different perspectives on the zombie genre, ranging from survival horror to cooperative multiplayer experiences.

4. What is the appeal of zombie games?

Zombie games offer a unique and terrifying experience for players, as they must face off against hordes of undead creatures. The post-apocalyptic setting also provides a sense of urgency and danger, as players must scavenge for resources and survive against all odds. Additionally, the genre often taps into fears of death and the unknown, making it a thrilling and engaging experience for many players.

5. What makes a game a “zombie game”?

While there are many variations of zombie games, the key element that defines them as such is the presence of zombies as the primary antagonists. The games often involve survival gameplay, with the player fighting against hordes of undead creatures in a post-apocalyptic setting. Other elements, such as horror and scavenging for resources, may also be present, but the presence of zombies is the defining characteristic of the genre.

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