State of Decay 3 Lead Reveals Early Concept: “No Zombie Animals”

Undead Labs studio head Philip Holt has clarified why the early State of Decay 3 trailer looked so different. He says that trailer was a concept, not a finished product, and some elements will not appear in the final game. He also made clear the team will not include zombie animals.

How the first trailer came together

Holt explained the original reveal was produced very early in development. At the time, only four or five people worked on the project. The game existed mostly as a Word document.

The trailer was pre-rendered and created by Blur. It aimed to show a concept rather than playable footage. As development progressed, the team revised many early ideas.

The fate of the zombie deer

One notable casualty from the early material is the infected deer. Holt repeated that zombie deer will not be included. He summed up the decision with a clear rejection of zombie animals.

What the team is focusing on now

Undead Labs plans to blend strengths from the first two games. The new entry emphasizes makeshift survival and community upkeep. Crafting will focus on repurposing materials to sustain settlements.

Gameplay trials will let players try four-player co-op. Tests will also showcase new base-building and resource strategies. Combat remains a major pillar of the experience.

Playtests, scale, and partnerships

Undead Labs announced a series of playtests this year. The tests begin next month and are open via alpha sign-ups. Players can register to participate in the upcoming trials.

The studio is expanding the world design. Gears of War and Avowed teams are helping to deliver a larger, shared open world. Holt described it as a much larger, truly shared space for players.

Holt’s comments aimed to reset expectations. The project evolved significantly since its first reveal. Fans can sign up for the alpha to see the changes firsthand.