Developer: EKO Software
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Microsoft Windows, GeForce Now, Xbox Series X and Series S
Initial release date: February 27, 2024
Genres: Adventure game, Role-playing video game, Shooter game, Fighting game, Strategy video game, Adventure
Publishers: Nacon, Bigben Interactive S.A.
Engine: Unity
Welcome to Paradize is a zombie-infused adventure with a lighthearted twist. This open-world adventure twists conventional genre clichés while providing hours of survival, combat, and crafting content. This meaty combination of themes mainly works, and players will lose themselves in an apocalyptic fantasy scenario.
This isometric adventure game was created by Eko Software and published by Nacon. Furthermore, it can be played alone or with up to four players. As a result, you can form a group of zombie-loving buddies and face the craziness together. Though I like playing it by myself, the action improves when another survivor joins in. Sharing the load and cutting apart swarms of undead never gets boring. Furthermore, having a teammate by your side makes boss encounters much easier.
Welcome to Paradise tells a bizarre story.
Zombie games and strange plots are not new. Fortunately, Welcome to Paradise maintains tradition. The story takes place in a fictional apocalyptic scenario. Zombies have caused havoc, resulting in the establishment of a safe haven. Paradize was created for the few survivors that remained. The only caveat is that everyone needs to make their own way there.
Here’s where the story starts. The hero, whom you get to create, stumbles across the grounds of a dilapidated gatehouse. All hell has broken free, and Paradise isn’t as safe as you had anticipated. However, it’s home, and the mind-controlled zombies are useful. Your mission is to establish a base within the walls and search for a way off Earth. Fortunately, a moon base was built, but the creator is unwilling to rescue you. You and your crew must construct a rocket, navigate legions of zombies, and reach the lunar haven before being slain by a mindless brain muncher.
A simple gameplay loop.
Though the premise seems fantastic and Hollywood-like, the gameplay cycle is simple. To effectively obtain resources, the hero must traverse the enormous open globe. En route, they must accomplish objectives and assist everybody they come across. Finishing each mission will reward you with additional jobs and powerful goods. Each of these items is necessary because you will need strong goods and a stronger stomach if you want to progress.
The arrival of zombie helpers marks a tiny difference in gameplay. Each hero can manage up to two zombies. Furthermore, if you have enough strength, you can leave zombies in your base to harvest resources and protect your main asset, the rocket ship. The micromanagement of zombies is difficult at first, but it rapidly becomes manageable. The superb UI allowed you to command your men to defend the base or acquire crucial resources. While your zombie army protects your base, you can explore with your pals and other zombie partners.
Boss battles.
Exploration and base construction are equally important. Furthermore, getting new gear for your zombies becomes increasingly important when the temperature rises. Controlling frozen or boiling undead is not easy. As a result, you’ll require the appropriate armor for the job. Along with this, you can create weapons and armor for yourself or find new tools for your undead companions.
Once you’re satisfied with your base defenses and zombie powers, you may try your hand at battling a variety of huge zombie animals. These interactions were wonderful fun. However, each combat lasts indefinitely since your weapons are as potent as a fart in the wind. Each arrow, bolt, or slice from your machete barely scratched the surface. However, if you have a large band of survivors and work together, defeating each giant beast can be gratifying.
Welcome to Paradise looks amazing, however it has several issues.
I adored the isometric view. This elevated vantage point highlights forthcoming challenges and makes the open environment feel vast. Furthermore, it eliminates the need for excessive detail because the general picture complements the fast-paced action that unfolds. In addition, I enjoyed the various biomes and diverse landscapes. Each distinct region has its own testing aspects, which keep you on your toes.
However, the slight limits with the isometric viewpoint were not ideal. Depending on your route, you may not always be able to see barriers or incoming hordes. This wasn’t too bothersome because I focused on ranged weaponry. However, if you enjoy close-quarter combat, you’ll have your ass handed to you frequently.
The whimsy and dramatic audio heighten the funny tone. The tongue-in-cheek tracks highlight the developer’s lighthearted side. However, they do not diminish the drama or peril you encounter. As you penetrate each enemy base or face a massive opponent, the soundtrack portrays the gravity of the situation. Furthermore, each weapon and action has its own unique sound effect. This was wonderful since the squelch of your adversaries never got boring.
Excellent controls.
Though the isometric viewpoint may be troublesome, the controls are not. The superb layout allows you to traverse even the tightest of conditions. Furthermore, the basic yet effective UI gives you the ability to manage every resource, tool, and item you collect. This was fantastic since you collected a lot of trash as you hunted down each species.
If you enjoy the zombie genre, you’ll fall for Welcome to Paradise’s undead charms. Furthermore, if you have a decent group of buddies to play with, you will have a terrific time. However, if you are alone and dislike a sense of grind, you may find this less appealing. The ongoing grind, disassembly, and gathering of materials increases replayability and lifespan. However, it is this aspect that will turn many people off. As a result, it is a delicate balancing act that will divide its audience.
Welcome to Paradise is entertaining and enjoyable, albeit a touch repetitious.
I enjoyed Welcome to Paradise. The comments was amusing, and who does not enjoy slaughtering zombies? Furthermore, building a solid base and completing a variety of objectives helped me stay focused. When you add an army of pet zombies and the option to play with friends, this ticks a lot of boxes. I get that the grind may be off-putting, but happily, you can play this casually to alleviate that concern. As a result, I adore it and strongly recommend purchasing it here! Can you escape your new hell? Befriend some zombies, complete tons of quests, and get the hell off of Earth for good.
Review Overview
Gameplay: 80%
Controls: 82%
Aesthetics: 87%
Content: 84%
Accessibility: 81%
Value: 79%
Overall: 82%
GOOD
Summary: Welcome to Paradize offers an amazing blend of adventure and exploration in a bright, sun-drenched environment. The gameplay is strong, with a range of activities and challenges to keep players engaged, however a few features may be refined more. Controls are snappy and simple to use, resulting in a seamless experience. The aesthetics shine with vibrant, bright visuals that bring the world to life, while the substance is extensive, providing hours of exploration. Accessibility features are useful, however there is room for development. Overall, it’s a fun and intriguing voyage through a paradise worth discovering.