Zombie World Post-Apocalyptic; Horror; Bleak; Powered by the Apocalypse (PbtA); Survival; Team-Based; Resource Management
Zombie World is a tabletop roleplaying game (TTRPG) that utilizes the Powered by the Apocalypse (PbtA) system to immerse players in a bleak, post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies. The game focuses on survival, resource management, and the interpersonal drama that arises within a community of survivors. Its card-based mechanics and collaborative enclave creation distinguish it from other zombie-themed RPGs, offering a unique and accessible experience for both seasoned and novice players.
Theme and Setting
Zombie World plunges players into a post-apocalyptic world where a zombie outbreak has decimated civilization. The setting is characterized by scarcity, danger, and moral ambiguity. Survivors are holed up in enclaves, struggling to rebuild and maintain some semblance of order. The game emphasizes the interpersonal conflicts and difficult choices that arise when resources are scarce and trust is fragile. Players will face not only the threat of the undead but also the challenges of navigating complex relationships within their community. The two starting enclaves detailed are a Hospital and a Prison, each presenting unique opportunities and resources, creating diverse conflicts and play experiences.
Core Mechanics and Rules
Zombie World diverges from traditional dice-rolling RPGs by using cards to resolve actions. Players draw cards from a survivor deck based on their character's stats (Survival, Steel, Soul, and Savagery) when making a move. The best card drawn determines the outcome: Triumph, Edge, or Miss, each leading to varying degrees of success and consequences. The game mechanics encourage players to engage with their character's past, present, and trauma, which are represented by cards that provide bonuses and penalties based on how they are played. A unique element is the creation of the enclave, collaboratively designed by the players, influencing the setting's scarcity, population, surroundings, and available advantages. This establishes a shared, invested environment, key to the gameplay experience. Stress is another crucial mechanic. As characters accumulate stress, they risk developing new traumas, which can ultimately lead to them becoming NPCs who actively harm the enclave.
What Makes It Unique
Several features set Zombie World apart from other zombie-themed RPGs. The card-based resolution system provides a streamlined and narrative-focused experience, minimizing reliance on complex dice rolls. The collaborative enclave creation process fosters player investment in the setting and encourages teamwork. The focus on interpersonal drama and the moral dilemmas of survival creates compelling stories beyond simple zombie slaying. The game's design, contained within a single box with attractive and practical components, distinguishes it from many other PbtA games. This approach makes Zombie World a convenient and visually appealing option for both experienced and new players.
Target Audience and Player Experience
Zombie World is geared toward players who enjoy narrative-driven gameplay, character-focused stories, and collaborative world-building. Its accessible rules and streamlined mechanics make it a good entry point for those new to tabletop RPGs, while its emphasis on moral ambiguity and interpersonal conflict appeals to experienced players seeking deeper, more meaningful experiences. The game aims to evoke a "Walking Dead" feel, focusing on the human element of survival rather than just the horror of the zombies. The experience emphasizes resource management and team-based decision-making, pushing players to work together to overcome obstacles and navigate the complexities of their post-apocalyptic community. However, it's recommended to use safety tools like Script Change or Lines and Veils to address potentially triggering traumas that might appear during play.
