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Devlog#3

In this devlog, we will delve into the design process of the Walker and Runner zombies that appear in The Midnight Walkers, and explore the roles they play in the game.

Click on the image to enlarge!

[h2][The Beginning of the Zombie Virus][/h2]

As we entered the 2020s, humanity faced the challenges of overpopulation and food shortages.
To address this, the multinational corporation 'Mogenco' launched 'The Next Lyco' project to develop a genetically modified tomato that grows quickly and is resistant to pests. This tomato became a global sensation, seen as a savior in the face of food scarcity. However, five years later, it was discovered that this tomato was the cause of a deadly zombie virus that threatened humanity.
This virus ultimately brought humanity to the brink of extinction and led to the creation of the zombies in The Midnight Walkers.
There are rumors that the zombies appearing in Liberty Grand Center are actually people who once participated in The Midnight Walkers Show, but no one knows for sure.
Perhaps only those running the show know the truth.

[h2][Core Philosophy of Zombie Design][/h2]

The design of the Walker and Runner zombies goes beyond mere horror elements; they are designed to significantly impact gameplay and the strategic choices of survivors. Each zombie visually represents their background and the extent of their infection, allowing survivors to gauge their threat level just by encountering them.

[h2][Walker][/h2]

[h3]● Appearance & Design Elements:[/h3] Walker zombies are designed to move slowly. Their appearance visibly shows injuries and signs of infection on their arms and legs. These elements suggest that they were infected during an earlier stage of the outbreak.

[h3]● In-Game:[/h3] Walkers serve as minor obstacles that impede the progress of survivors. These zombies slowly approach survivors but can grab them within a certain range.
If a Walker zombie raises both hands to attack you, it’s highly recommended to dodge.

[previewyoutube][/previewyoutube]
Here is a video of a Walker zombie performing a grab attack. If grabbed by a Walker, press [F] repeatedly to escape.

However, since Walkers move slowly, survivors have the option to either bypass them or take them out. Thus, Walkers require survivors to make important strategic decisions.

[h2][Runner][/h2]



[h3]● Appearance & Design Elements:[/h3] Runner zombies have a much leaner appearance compared to Walkers. The infection is more advanced, showing swollen skin and severe decay in certain areas of the body. Their slim build emphasizes that they are fast-moving zombies. Their aggressive stance immediately signals danger to survivors.

[h3]● In-Game:[/h3] Runners are aggressive disruptors that pose a significant threat to survivors. They quickly approach and attack survivors, making them difficult to shake off. In most cases, it’s challenging to ignore them, so survivors are advised to swiftly eliminate them. The presence of Runners keeps survivors on edge, requiring quick decisions and precise reactions.

[previewyoutube][/previewyoutube]
Check out the speed of the Runner zombie in this video.

[h2][Detailed Design Process][/h2]

[h3]● Face & Skin Texture:[/h3] The face of each zombie is a key element in indicating their threat level, with each being carefully designed to match the characteristics of Walkers and Runners. Walkers have relatively less decayed faces, while Runners feature severely decayed skin and exposed muscles.

[h3]● Clothing & Accessories:[/h3] Walkers are dressed in everyday clothing, reflecting the appearance of ordinary citizens with items like belt pouches and sneakers. Runners, on the other hand, are designed with a more aggressive appearance, featuring minimal clothing that exposes their decayed bodies.

[h3]● Body Deformities & Blisters:[/h3] The zombies’ bodies show various deformities depending on the level of infection, with blisters and swellings effectively conveying their deteriorated state. These visual details powerfully express the long-lasting state of living death that these zombies endure.

[h2][Conclusion][/h2]

Each zombie has its own unique role and threat level, offering survivors a diverse and intense gameplay experience. In future development stages, we plan to delve deeper into how these zombies interact within the game and how they influence survivors’ choices. Stay tuned for the next devlog!

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2795540/The_Midnight_Walkers/