10 Seriously Immersive Video Game Details You Missed
7. Real-Time Weather Effects – Days Gone
Despite some problems, Days Gone is ultimately an underrated title. The 2019 zombie shooter suffered from a bloated length and some uninspired choices when it came to the story. However, it does make some bold decisions too, with some of them feeling incredibly immersive.
Needing to refuel the bike (move over, Mafia) gives you a strong sense of danger when outside of a camp, and helps the experience of driving around the world feel more grounded in reality, while the guitarist you can occasionally spot busking in Iron Mike’s camp makes Days Gone feel more alive.
Weather effects are the most impressive example of this though, with puddles forming due to rain and snow settling in real-time. Watching snow fall to the ground offers a sense of serenity that contrasts with the carnage found amongst the constant threat of the Freaker hordes, and it is an extremely effective tool in heightening feelings of immersion when playing.
The weather also affects how the Freakers react to you, with the cold temperature during snowfall increasing their strength, while heavy rainfall impairs their ability to see you and allows a stealthier approach to combat.