The genre of zombie-killing video games hasn’t seen much innovation in recent memory, however for a very good reason. Because the release of Left 4 Dead in 2008, zombie games have sought to replicate exactly the same successful formula, and World War Z isn't any different. Initially released in 2023 by Saber Interactive for PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC, World War Z is now on the Nintendo Switch as well.
World War Z is really a horde mode zombie shooter that can support up to four players cooperating to kill massive hordes of zombies. Nevertheless there is practically nothing groundbreaking hanging around, the execution is extremely well done, and the missions are fun to experience. The missions take you to locations such as Tokyo and Jerusalem, and each has its own distinct look and feel for them. I think the range of mission locations is what I appreciated most about the game itself, even though nothing really stood out as “very best in class” when compared with other similar games such as the recently released.
The actual mechanics are as straightforward because it gets too, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. I specifically loved the strategic aspect of establishing defensive positions to help combat the huge hordes. I never found myself can not decide what to do, but it was nice to have more options than simply simply “grab more ammo.” As the insufficient creative gameplay changes can be a common criticism, I find it hard to think of things that might have been completed to result in the game stick out truly. The gameplay of zombie horde games is definitely a case of “whether it ain’t broke, don’t repair it,” therefore i can’t exactly blame developers for lack of anything earth-shattering.
While much of World War Z seems like a reskin of other similar games, the largest standout is the pure quantity of zombies that come rushing at you in every mission. I never really felt exactly the same awe to be swarmed by a massive horde on my small screen in other games like it, and so i was quite astounded by the total amount in World War Z. The possible lack of variety in zombies is a little disappointing, however I feel like it is hard to produce anything “new” here when so many other available choices happen to be explored already within the genre, and those that work really work well.
Most of my time with World War Z was spent comparing it with other similar games, whether unintentionally or otherwise, however the genuine thing that makes it stand out is the fact that it runs very well on the Nintendo Switch. There are countless Left 4 Dead clones on PC as well as on other consoles, when you are in a position to kill massive hordes while riding the subway or killing time at work is difficult to miss. The main harbour functions quite well, and I didn’t notice any major problems that made time anything under enjoyable.
The other thing which makes World War Z around the Switch worth checking out may be the sheer amount of fun that can be had with others. I don't think I have ever loaded into a zombie game on my own; for me personally, it is always about teaming up with others instead of having fun with computer characters. Playing World War Z with friends, especially friends who don't own a PC or any other console, is definitely an absolute blast. There is a severe insufficient good zombie horde games on the platform, so in that regard, World War Z is a welcomed addition.
World War Z might not do anything whatsoever to really stand out within the genre, but that doesn’t mean it is not an enjoyable time. The core from the game is very basic, and also at times can seem to be like a simple reskin of other similar games, but that should not turn anyone away from checking it out. I'd especially recommend it if you are looking for a zombie game on the Switch, as it is probably the smartest choice available for you personally.
World War Z for Nintendo Switch is out now.
