Not having permadeath while featuring a clearly defined plot that you can play through from beginning to end would normally exclude a game from earning the 'survival game' tag. But Dying Light does a great job of combining key elements of the genre with those you'd look for in a AAA release. Throwing you into an open world of urban decay and zombies, Dying Light has you pick up clearly defined missions and develop your character. Resources are scant, weapons are prone to breaking down, and you'll need to make every bullet count if you want to survive. That sometimes will involve running away from encounters - using the awesome parkour mechanics to assist you - rather than wantonly gunning your way through them. What's impressive about Dying Light is its presentation. While many first-person survival games can feel a little rough around the edges (and always using that 'Early Access' tag as an excuse), Dying Light is incredibly polished in terms of graphics, sound and world design. The game oozes atmosphere - whether you're in a moodily-lit building with the sound of a baby crying in the background, or trying to get to safety as night falls in the city of Harron (you don't want to be caught in the wrong place in the dead of night). While there is no permadeath, death is punished losing survival points, which are used to level up your character and endow them with new skills. If you want a more objective-driven, glossy take on the survival game (that you can play with up to three buddies), then Dying Light is well worth a look. Have you delved into the survival game? Which ones have hooked you the most? Let us know in the comments, or have a go at writing for WhatCulture yourself!
Gamer, Researcher of strange things.
I'm a writer-editor hybrid whose writings on video games, technology and movies can be found across the internet. I've even ventured into the realm of current affairs on occasion but, unable to face reality, have retreated into expatiating on things on screens instead.
