Summary
- Release Year: 2014
- Genres: Simulator
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Undead Labs
- Publishers: Microsoft Studios
State of Decay: Lifeline Review
State of Decay: Lifeline is a standalone expansion to the popular zombie survival game State of Decay. It was developed by Undead Labs and published by Microsoft Studios. The game was released on Xbox 360 and Xbox One on May 20, 2014.
Lifeline puts you into the boots of Greyhound One, a military unit sent into a zombie-infested city to rescue a team of scientists who can put an end to the outbreak. The game features a new map, new characters, and a new way to play: Defend your base against hordes of zombies, using the best military equipment and personnel your unit can scrape together.
Gameplay
Lifeline’s gameplay is similar to that of the original State of Decay. You control a group of survivors as they scavenge for supplies, build a base, and fight off zombies. However, Lifeline also introduces some new gameplay elements, such as base defense and a new resource management system.
One of the most significant changes in Lifeline is the addition of base defense. In the original State of Decay, you could build a base to store your supplies and keep your survivors safe. However, zombies would not attack your base unless you were actively defending it. In Lifeline, zombies will regularly attack your base, so you will need to build defenses and train your survivors to defend it.
Another new gameplay element in Lifeline is the resource management system. In the original State of Decay, you could scavenge for supplies such as food, water, and medicine. However, in Lifeline, you will also need to scavenge for fuel and ammunition. Fuel is used to power your vehicles and generators, while ammunition is used to defend your base.
Characters
Lifeline features a cast of new characters, each with their own unique skills and abilities. The main protagonist is Captain John Logan, a former soldier who is now leading Greyhound One. Other characters include Sergeant Maya Torres, a skilled sniper; Corporal Jacob Hendricks, a demolitions expert; and Specialist Sarah Jones, a medic.
Setting
Lifeline takes place in the same setting as the original State of Decay, a rural county in the Pacific Northwest. However, the game’s map is new and features a variety of new locations, such as a military base, a hospital, and a prison.
Graphics and Sound
Lifeline’s graphics are similar to those of the original State of Decay. The game uses the same engine, and the character models and environments are all very detailed. The game’s sound design is also excellent, with realistic sound effects and a haunting soundtrack.
Overall
State of Decay: Lifeline is a great addition to the series, with a new map, new characters, and a new way to play. The game’s base defense gameplay is a lot of fun, and the new resource management system adds an extra layer of challenge. If you’re a fan of the original State of Decay, then you’ll definitely want to check out Lifeline.
Score: 8/10
Pros:
- New map with a variety of new locations
- New characters with unique skills and abilities
- Fun and challenging base defense gameplay
- New resource management system adds an extra layer of challenge
- Excellent graphics and sound design
Cons:
- Can be repetitive at times
- Some of the new characters are not as well-developed as the characters in the original game
Review Score
7.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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