The zombie survival MMO “H1Z1” is set to launch with four different types of zombies. This is revealed in a new developer blog that focuses on the design of zombies. Additionally, new playable characters and high-end gear are discussed.
H1Z1 is still awaiting its Early Access launch. A series of developer blogs continuously reveal more details about the game. While recent blogs have focused on weather effects, spawn points, or building design, Matt Broome is tackling the core of the game, the zombies. He is a professional graphic artist and has worked for Marvel, DC, and renowned film studios before moving into the gaming industry and joining Sony Online Entertainment.
Brawler and Creeper – different zombies with strengths and weaknesses
In the blog, he reveals that he is currently working on the hairstyle of the zombie species “Bob”, the second type of zombie in H1Z1, following the normal, relatively slow zombies that can be seen all over the streams and videos. The name “Bob” was actually given by fans. After “Bob”, a “Brawler” is next, which is a particularly large and strong zombie that takes care of everything in its way – like a zombified wrestler, so to speak. By the way, this one doesn’t have a name yet. Broome is asking for suggestions via Twitter.
After the slow primordial zombie, Bob, and the Brawler, there will also be “traditional” zombies introduced to the game, in advanced stages of decay. At launch, the plan is to have four different races in the game that will differ in their appearance and movements. Thus, the normal, slow zombies are intended to be the foundation of H1Z1, but there will also be faster zombie types, stronger ones, and the so-called “Creepers”, which can only crawl along the ground because they lack legs.
Loot alert in H1Z1: Shotgun, sniper rifle, and special ops gear
Broome also provides insight into the arsenal that will be available to players. He enjoys designing equipment used by special forces, like SWAT teams: night vision devices, bullet-proof vests, he is a fan of all that.
By the way: A day prior, Broome’s colleague, game designer and weapon fan Jimmy Whisenhunt, leaked a shotgun and a sniper rifle on Twitter. So there will be more than just a bow and arrow in H1Z1.
So, one of these. @H1Z1game #h1z1 pic.twitter.com/YEXjYAqGRu
— Jimmy Whisenhunt (@jimmywhis) July 31, 2014
Not only in zombies is there choice, but also in characters
Broome also gives a small insight into the selection of playable characters. So far, only the male type is known, which the team affectionately named “Ivan”. They plan to introduce new variants soon. Female models are at the very top of the design list and enjoy top priority.
And of course, both zombies and female player characters still need their own wardrobe, intended to make the game varied.
Broome certainly has his hands full to ensure that H1Z1 can also impress graphically.
After all, the apocalypse is dreary enough – how much worse would it be if everyone wore the same?
