Summary

Release Year: 2002
Genres: Shooter
Platforms: Arcade, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 3, Xbox
Developers: SEGA AM1, WOW Entertainment
Publishers: Sega

The House of the Dead III: A Thrilling and Innovative Zombie-Blasting Extravaganza

Released in 2002, The House of the Dead III is the third installment in the acclaimed House of the Dead light gun arcade game series. Developed by Wow Entertainment and Sega, this game takes players on a thrilling and action-packed journey filled with grotesque zombies, intense boss battles, and innovative gameplay mechanics.

Story and Setting

The House of the Dead III continues the narrative of the previous games, set in a world overrun by hordes of undead creatures. Players take on the role of Lisa Rogan, the daughter of Thomas Rogan, the protagonist of the first game. Alongside Lisa, players can also choose to play as G, a mysterious government agent, or Daniel Curien, a Vatican priest.

The game’s story unfolds across various locations, including a dilapidated mansion, a creepy carnival, and a sprawling amusement park. As players progress through the game, they uncover a sinister plot involving a mad scientist, Dr. Curien, who seeks to unleash a deadly virus upon the world.

Gameplay and Innovations

The House of the Dead III retains the classic light gun gameplay of its predecessors, allowing players to engage in intense zombie-blasting action. However, this installment introduces several innovative gameplay concepts that enhance the overall experience.

One of the most notable additions is the branching storyline system. Depending on the player’s performance and choices during the game, they will encounter different paths and endings. This adds an element of replayability, encouraging players to explore various scenarios and outcomes.

The game also features a variety of new weapons, including powerful shotguns, rapid-fire machine guns, and explosive rocket launchers. These weapons provide players with a diverse arsenal to combat the relentless hordes of zombies.

Characters

The House of the Dead III introduces a cast of memorable characters who add depth and personality to the game.

Lisa Rogan: The daughter of Thomas Rogan, Lisa is a skilled fighter determined to avenge her father’s death and stop Dr. Curien’s evil plans.
G: A mysterious government agent with a shadowy past, G possesses incredible combat skills and a cool demeanor.
Daniel Curien: A Vatican priest, Daniel is torn between his faith and his duty to confront his brother, Dr. Curien, and prevent the spread of the deadly virus.

Enemies and Bosses

The House of the Dead III features a diverse array of grotesque and horrifying zombies, each with unique abilities and attack patterns. From standard shambling zombies to towering mutants and agile leapers, players must adapt their strategies to overcome these undead threats.

The game also boasts epic boss battles against colossal and formidable creatures. These encounters test players’ skills and reflexes to the limit, requiring precision shooting and quick thinking to emerge victorious.

Ports and Re-releases

After its initial arcade release, The House of the Dead III was ported to several home platforms. In 2003, it was released for the Xbox, bringing the arcade experience to console players. Two years later, in 2005, the game was ported to Microsoft Windows, allowing PC gamers to join the zombie-blasting action.

In 2008, The House of the Dead III was included in a compilation with The House of the Dead 2 for the Wii. This compilation offered a nostalgic throwback for fans of the series and introduced the games to a new generation of players.

Finally, in 2012, The House of the Dead III was released for the PlayStation 3 with PlayStation Move support. This version provided players with a more immersive and motion-controlled experience, enhancing the gameplay and adding a new level of excitement.

Legacy and Impact

The House of the Dead III was a critical and commercial success, solidifying the series’ status as one of the most popular light gun arcade games. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, branching storyline, and memorable characters left a lasting impact on the genre.

The game’s success also spawned a sequel, The House of the Dead 4, which was released in arcades in 2005 and later ported to home consoles. The series continues to be enjoyed by fans worldwide, with its blend of intense action, horror, and campy charm.

Conclusion

The House of the Dead III remains a thrilling and innovative zombie-blasting extravaganza that delivers an unforgettable arcade experience. Its branching storyline, diverse gameplay, and memorable characters have cemented its place as a beloved classic in the genre. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the series, The House of the Dead III is a must-play for anyone seeking a heart-pounding and action-packed adventure.