Using Dogs as Allies in the Battle Against Zombies

Arizona Sunshine 2: A Promising Sequel in the World of VR Zombies

In 2016, Vertigo Games released Arizona Sunshine, a virtual reality (VR) game that introduced players to the harrowing world of zombies. Now, the studio is back with the highly anticipated sequel, Arizona Sunshine 2, which aims to build on the success of its predecessor.

While zombies have become a common enemy in the world of VR gaming, Arizona Sunshine stood out for its early release and immersive gameplay. However, the genre has evolved since then, with recent titles like The Walking Dead Saints & Sinners raising the bar. Arizona Sunshine 2 aims to reclaim its position as a zombie-slaying experience by transporting players back to the desert with a new arsenal of weapons and tools.

The biggest addition in Arizona Sunshine 2 is Buddy, a loyal canine companion that players can command to attack zombies or retrieve objects. Buddy adds a new layer of gameplay mechanics and emotional connection, creating a unique dynamic in the post-apocalyptic setting.

Gameplay Impressions

I recently had the opportunity to go hands-on with Arizona Sunshine 2 during a demo in New York. Playing on the Oculus Quest 2 connected to a PC, I delved into a segment of the game and got a taste of what the sequel has to offer.

The demo showcased a range of weapons, from standard firearms to limited-use melee options. But what stood out the most was the ability to give Buddy commands to engage zombies. It brought both tactical and emotional elements to the gameplay, and I found myself becoming increasingly invested in my furry companion’s well-being.

Combat in Arizona Sunshine 2 felt smooth and satisfying. Managing hordes of zombies with a varied arsenal was challenging yet enjoyable. However, the demo was too short to fully gauge the game’s pacing and difficulty over extended periods.

A Co-op Experience

One of the highlights of the original Arizona Sunshine was its multiplayer mode, and Vertigo Games understands its significance. When asked about a cooperative mode in Arizona Sunshine 2, Game Director Peter Deurloo emphasized that ignoring multiplayer would be a misstep.

While specific details about the co-op mode are yet to be revealed, it’s safe to say that players can look forward to banding together with friends to survive the zombie apocalypse in Arizona Sunshine 2.

Release and Final Thoughts

As of now, Vertigo Games is working diligently towards a Q4 2023/Q1 2024 release for Arizona Sunshine 2. While my hands-on experience showed promise for the sequel, it remains to be seen how the final package will come together. The developers have laid a strong foundation, but it’s vital to consider the overall pacing, enemy difficulty, and the depth of the gameplay experience.

Despite these uncertainties, Arizona Sunshine 2 shows promise as a thrilling and immersive VR zombie experience. Fans of the original game and enthusiasts of the genre should keep an eye out for further updates as Vertigo Games unveils more details about the highly anticipated sequel.

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