Dambuster Studios' Triumph: Bringing Dead Island 2 to Life

After years of development hell, Dead Island 2 has finally been released. The game's tumultuous journey began in 2014, with initial development handled by Yager, followed by a change in studios to Sumo Digital, and ultimately, Dambuster Studios taking the reins in 2018. According to game director David Stenton, the team wasn't intimidated by the pressure of taking over a project with such a long and complicated history. Instead, they focused on honoring the franchise's legacy while pushing the boundaries of melee combat and celebrating the zombie genre in a unique and over-the-top way. The final product is distinct from the original vision, with the only retained element being the Los Angeles setting. Stenton explains that the team started from scratch, driven by their passion for the project and a desire to put their own creative stamp on the game. The result is a game that revels in its pulp tone, with extreme gore, stylish characters, and a focus on fun, mindless zombie-slaying action. With a diverse cast of playable characters, including a Black lead and a Paralympian, the game aims to capture the melting pot of cultures and personalities that defines Los Angeles. The game's enemies, too, reflect the city's eccentric personality types, from rollerblading zombies to those clad in beachwear. Stenton believes that Dead Island 2 offers something distinct in a crowded zombie game market, where often the focus is on gritty, serious storytelling. By embracing its over-the-top nature and reveling in the absurdity of the zombie apocalypse, the game provides a refreshing alternative, one that promises a fun, thrilling experience for players.