Dead Island

 Xbox 360
User Score
7.0

Mixed or average reviews- based on 674 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 358 out of 674
  2. Mixed: 200 out of 674
  3. Negative: 116 out of 674
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  1. Panchogul
    Jul 8, 2023
    8
    El gameplay es adictivo pero todo lo demás es deficiente, mi primera partida me tomó 31 horas bien aprovechadas donde conseguí llegar al final con nivel 42 en donde el farmeo y grindeo no tuvieron descanso, las misiones secundarias sirven de mucho pero al final toma demasiado tiempo y es fácil aburrirse debido a lo repetitivo que se vuelven, la historia es tan simplona como las de ResidentEl gameplay es adictivo pero todo lo demás es deficiente, mi primera partida me tomó 31 horas bien aprovechadas donde conseguí llegar al final con nivel 42 en donde el farmeo y grindeo no tuvieron descanso, las misiones secundarias sirven de mucho pero al final toma demasiado tiempo y es fácil aburrirse debido a lo repetitivo que se vuelven, la historia es tan simplona como las de Resident Evil y los personajes tienen menos carisma que una piedra. Me lo pasé muy bien pero no dan ganas de pasárselo de nuevo.… Expand
  2. Tomas95
    May 7, 2023
    10
    Für mich ist dead island ein absolutes Meisterwerk egal op grafik, Sound, Atmosphäre und Terror horror ein absolutes muss für alle zombie fans wo the Walking Dead frisch raus kamm wollte ich schon immer ein geilen Open World zombie game und das habe ich bekomme mit dead island
  3. goodgriff33
    Dec 24, 2022
    8
    Answer: 75 characters is between 10 words and 19 words with spaces included in the character count. If spaces are not included in the character count, then 75 characters is between 12 words and 25 words.
  4. CloudStrife05
    Aug 19, 2021
    8
    Might have been over hyped at first but the fact I didn't ready anything into the trailer, I actually was not disappointed and enjoyed it.
  5. Steyraus
    Apr 27, 2021
    9
    Ill never understand terible taste and reviews of games journalists or the simple minds that let these people influence their opinions. But I do understand me and all my mates had so much fun with this game we played through at least 4 times to max out every characters skill tree.
  6. FeerFrikazus
    Mar 3, 2017
    9
    Es un buen juego, motivos: casi no tiene caídas de fps, las misiones principales y secundarias son muy entretenidas, tiene gran cantidad de contenido, se puede jugar en cooperativo, tiene un sistema de mejoras de armas bueno, una cantidad de armas excelente, mapa grande, los zombis son normales, los jefes son buenos,
    Si te gustan los zombis este juego es perfecto para vos, y si no te lo    Es un buen juego, motivos: casi no tiene caídas de fps, las misiones principales y secundarias son muy entretenidas, tiene gran cantidad de contenido, se puede jugar en cooperativo, tiene un sistema de mejoras de armas bueno, una cantidad de armas excelente, mapa grande, los zombis son normales, los jefes son buenos,
    Si te gustan los zombis este juego es perfecto para vos, y si no te lo recomiendo igualmente ya que es muy divertido.    … Expand
  7. 789lasrm
    Mar 8, 2016
    10
    Awesome game! RPG zumbi!!! I see people complaining that weapons break fast and it's hard , but what makes it so fun. Dead Island offers 4 characters with unique skills , giving the player the opportunity to build your character according to your playing style. It is a strategy game you can not go around killing zombies without equip weapons and seek equipment , the problem is that it hasAwesome game! RPG zumbi!!! I see people complaining that weapons break fast and it's hard , but what makes it so fun. Dead Island offers 4 characters with unique skills , giving the player the opportunity to build your character according to your playing style. It is a strategy game you can not go around killing zombies without equip weapons and seek equipment , the problem is that it has some lazy who think this game is LF4 is that the game will give you weapons and ammunition without any effort , I spent hours to climb from level to get XP to build my character this game is wonderful for those who like RPG !!, very last thing this game was made for people who enjoy slow and difficult rhythm game, if you like frantic games type dying light pass away .… Expand
  8. Jspotter89
    Nov 6, 2015
    8
    I'm perplexed by the review scores for Dead Island. I went into it not really knowing anything about it aside from the basic premise (jungle island with zombies), and came out thinking it's one of the best zombie-fiction game out there, right up there with the likes of the Left 4 Dead games.

    It's interesting for a game to be rated so low when it's core mechanic (namely, the evisceration    I'm perplexed by the review scores for Dead Island. I went into it not really knowing anything about it aside from the basic premise (jungle island with zombies), and came out thinking it's one of the best zombie-fiction game out there, right up there with the likes of the Left 4 Dead games.

    It's interesting for a game to be rated so low when it's core mechanic (namely, the evisceration of many, many zombies with melee weapons) is so solid. I must have stabbed and bludgeoned one or two thousand zombies to death over the course of my playtime, and even by the end it was still satisfying to flawlessly kill even your run-of-the-mill zombies. The melee combat in this game just WORKS. And many games like it have gotten first-person melee combat so very, horribly wrong over the years.

    That being said in its favor, I can understand why Dead Island isn't getting perfect scores left and right. The main characters are ridiculous, cheesy, stereotypical, and horribly voice-acted. The narrative of the game is about as bare bones as can be: escape Dead Island! It has enough atmosphere and thrills, but it could have used a little bit more than the basic plot we have here. And finally, when you have firearms, you find out quickly that shooting zombies dead is far less satisfying than lopping off their limbs with a machete.

    Still, I give it a respectable 8 out of 10 for it's excellent melee combat, good atmosphere, and decent RPG-light elements.    … Expand
  9. Bajo19
    May 17, 2015
    8
    I had a great time playing this game. Some random bugs pop-up but after all story was good, crafting system was absolutely amazing. Only thing that I hated was the time you need to spend to get somewhere.
  10. ITZZZPERRY
    Nov 10, 2014
    8
    Dead Island is an extremely addictive and fun cooperative game. While the story is weak, the gameplay is fun for the most part, containing some glitches here and there. This is definitely a zombie game to play.
  11. TORM3NTOR
    Aug 28, 2014
    9
    Great game all the way, I'm a huge Fallout 3 fan and this is the closest game of being a F3 Coop with Zombies, it has some hints of Left4dead 2 as well which makes it way better...

    You never feel safe in DI's world, either you are surrounded by slow but numerous zombies or expect constant fear when the fast infected try to attack you. I think the game makes a good job in showing you    Great game all the way, I'm a huge Fallout 3 fan and this is the closest game of being a F3 Coop with Zombies, it has some hints of Left4dead 2 as well which makes it way better...

    You never feel safe in DI's world, either you are surrounded by slow but numerous zombies or expect constant fear when the fast infected try to attack you.

    I think the game makes a good job in showing you different locales, it starts with the paradise like landscapes of the resort and slowly starts to show you the real island represented by the overpopulated third world streets of Moresby (that is really a scary place when you visit it for the first time) and the creepy jungle.

    But don’t get too exited about it, DI is not a perfect game, it is not only crowded with zombies, but also with numerous glitches, bugs and texture problems that although never take you out of the experience, it tells you the lack of polish of the game (I think Fallout 3 has more glitches in general and still it was one of the best games of the last generation); but if you are in for the fun coop, exploration, looting and zombie slashing action, there is no better place to be.

    By the way, the story is not really interesting either and the cut scenes are not the best around, yet the game manages to tell you what happened to the island of Banoi.

    Verdict: Dead Island is not for everyone, if you are looking for a standard shooter and if you are if the impatient type, look elsewhere. This open world RPG Survival Zombie (wow that’s a long definition of the game!) game will impress you only if you put enough time to explore, understand its controls and pay more attention to the whole experience and ambience than on banalities like consistent quality presentation or engaging story.

    I don’t give it a 10 because is not perfect, but it ahs been the best coop experience I’ve ever had.    … Expand
  12. SIPPIO
    Aug 8, 2014
    10
    Wow what a game.. I heard the guy and a wannabe GameStop clerk bash this game by saying you equip a stick and a canoe oar.. We'll after playing the game they were right. You're 1st weapon is the only thing available at you're feet= a stick. Butt hat lasted 5 mins and that begins my review--
    To help the undecided decide---
    ---this game was SOO much fun in a borderlands Meets fallout kind    Wow what a game.. I heard the guy and a wannabe GameStop clerk bash this game by saying you equip a stick and a canoe oar.. We'll after playing the game they were right. You're 1st weapon is the only thing available at you're feet= a stick. Butt hat lasted 5 mins and that begins my review--
    To help the undecided decide---
    ---this game was SOO much fun in a borderlands Meets fallout kind of way.
    --the leveling is identical to borderlands. I love the impact the new perks have in combat and explore,
    --character diversity. You have you're tank,ranged, badass sword Chinese chick, and a black female no nonsense cop(firearms specialist..
    ---the game is hit or miss it seems. I played it 3.5 times. I didn't finish the cop chicks run through,,but 4 months and I was done with D. I.
    --chest/rare uber weapon chest farming is soooooooo addicting,,and the internet is loaded with guides and tips and tricks and routes to farm..
    --never ending respawn means you can grind exp and resources anywhere and anytime..
    --the game consist of 3 Main maps, and 2 other maps..
    -the 3 are
    The island tourist attraction suburbia, think Disneyland beach type beauty..starting map
    --second is the games bread & butter. The urban city of Moserby.. Buildings and homes galore. The people are holed up in a church and you do is ions for each person you come in contact with for either money,exp or a rare weapon..
    --the 3rd map is the str8 up jungle. Where the zombies are more advanced,numerous and the humans are tribal pirates like Vos pirates from farcry3...

    --weapon custom--every weapon you get gets upgraded permanently at a workbench.. You use materials you buy or scavenge.. And you can level the weapon 4 times(usually all at once) and then you use the hundred schematics you find in the game like a Zeus baseball bat,. A wooden bat with metal wires hooked up to a invisible power source.. The zombies get whacked and they shake and you can watch or easily decaputate em.. And there's perks for mega exp or money for everything. Like 100 decaputate ones,,then 500 on and on and on.. I think it's infinite like borderlands2...

    Look this is a pretty awesome game. It confuses me why a open world tropical paradise with awesome 1st person mechanics isn't rated higher.. The bugs are NOT game altering.. I never used any glitch to cheat besides classic luring zombies onto a mine or whatev....

    Riptide continues in the same exact mold. So that's a dream come true for fans of dead island and a complaint of some. Riptide uses same exact everything only slightly enhanced. Think of maddens improvements. That's how riptide is.. So that's another incentive IMO..
    --I'm hoping I can motivate 1 person to play this game.. They will repay the debt by convincing another to play and so on.....    … Expand
  13. taconinja
    Jul 31, 2014
    8
    Now, it may not be up to expectations of the emotional trailer story-wise, but has enough RPG and FPS fusion to make a fun experience. The game has a large map that is worth exploring, and is fun to play overall. Let's hope the newly announced Dead Island 2 fairs a little better on story and small bugs, okay? I'm going out on a limb giving it an 8 out of 10, so please treat this new gameNow, it may not be up to expectations of the emotional trailer story-wise, but has enough RPG and FPS fusion to make a fun experience. The game has a large map that is worth exploring, and is fun to play overall. Let's hope the newly announced Dead Island 2 fairs a little better on story and small bugs, okay? I'm going out on a limb giving it an 8 out of 10, so please treat this new game with respect.… Expand
  14. Rollie
    Jul 23, 2014
    9
    Who do you voodoo ****

    This game is another one I have played over and over quite a few times! Simply because of the playable characters you get to choose from: Logan Purna Xian Sam B All 4 characters have their own special ability. Released in 2011 this is still a game I could go back to and happily play without getting bored, the zombies, the weapons, just so much yes in    Who do you voodoo ****

    This game is another one I have played over and over quite a few times! Simply because of the playable characters you get to choose from:

    Logan
    Purna
    Xian
    Sam B

    All 4 characters have their own special ability.

    Released in 2011 this is still a game I could go back to and happily play without getting bored, the zombies, the weapons, just so much yes in one package!

    Nothing is more fun than smacking a zombie round the head with a paddle, because F-you zombie!

    The storyline is great and really well driven, there are a lot of things to do on it seeing as it's a large scaled map with vehicles but... I think the driving wasn't that good, some will agree, some won't...

    There were some parts in the game that actually made me jump, so it does actually have a scare factor! Still better than Resident Evil 5 (God I hate that game so much, urgh.)

    You also get to experience the enjoyment of fly kicking a zombie in the head, too awesome! (Do not try this at home unless you have an extremely annoying sibling, in that case, it's acceptable).

    LOTS of blood, after all you are literally amputating and dismembering a person, so not for the faint hearted. (Yet again, do not try this at home. Annoying siblings is not an acceptable excuse this time round.)

    Online Co-op is so much fun! I do recommend playing with a friend to make your experience more fun than solo. (Haha, that could also mean 2 things, stay focused guys.)

    You will never be short of quests in this game as there is a large amount of them. Some are never ending, such as finding something for someone in exchange for money or pills, not exactly accurate but you get the idea!

    Anyway, must have in your game collection, 9/10.    … Expand
  15. Unchainedsoul3
    Jun 27, 2014
    9
    This game is really fun even though a lot of people criticize it for having bugs and some bad graphics at parts. both are true as character models are bad and the bugs are there but none are that gamebreaking. The story also just stinks but it doesn't take over the game majorly. even though graphics on players suck zombies look amazing and they have layers of damage on their body forThis game is really fun even though a lot of people criticize it for having bugs and some bad graphics at parts. both are true as character models are bad and the bugs are there but none are that gamebreaking. The story also just stinks but it doesn't take over the game majorly. even though graphics on players suck zombies look amazing and they have layers of damage on their body for bloody graphics that look amazing. This game can have some real fun slashing zombies and screwing the story so if you can take it's flaws buy it.… Expand
  16. asalgado2592
    Jun 9, 2014
    10
    this is probably one of the most best zombie game i have ever played in my life.Even though it doesn't have a back story(maybe it does idk)but it has a good amount of quests and lots of places to go even on an island filled with zombies and other things that can be discovered this is the best game I've ever played
  17. Vanpire73
    May 2, 2014
    8
    It's a shame this wasn't a Rockstar or Bethesda game or the like. It would've gotten better reviews. Personally, I didn't experience any bugs playing it. I bought it after the first price drop. Games like Skyrim (which I love as well) get a 9.5 and game of the year but are UNPLAYABLE on certain systems for the first year or two. I found this game to be quite enjoyable. It didn'tIt's a shame this wasn't a Rockstar or Bethesda game or the like. It would've gotten better reviews. Personally, I didn't experience any bugs playing it. I bought it after the first price drop. Games like Skyrim (which I love as well) get a 9.5 and game of the year but are UNPLAYABLE on certain systems for the first year or two. I found this game to be quite enjoyable. It didn't reinvent the wheel, but for an open world, melee-based first person zombie slasher with RPG and loot elements it is 1st in it's class. I found the gameplay systems and quest set-up similar to Borderlands. You "honest and fair" reviewers out there make me wanna sew your Mom's gaping hole shut for birthing you, assuming there's enough yarn.… Expand
  18. HPSPhoenix
    Mar 26, 2014
    9
    Dead Island, despite its glitches and flaws, is a masterpiece. In the four months I have owned it, 56 hours at the time of posting have I spent on this game.
    The world is brilliantly realised, with so much to explore and so much to do. The player rarely feels safe, and it really is a good horror game at its best. To be perfectly honest, I would like to point out that the game is terrible    Dead Island, despite its glitches and flaws, is a masterpiece. In the four months I have owned it, 56 hours at the time of posting have I spent on this game.
    The world is brilliantly realised, with so much to explore and so much to do. The player rarely feels safe, and it really is a good horror game at its best. To be perfectly honest, I would like to point out that the game is terrible in my experience unless played co-op, at least the first time around.
    The storyline is gripping and action-packed, with a medium length journey from start to end. However, the game has so much replay value you will almost definitely go back to play it. One of the greatest things is that you can keep your previous character.
    The mechanics are top-notch and almost everything about this game is awesome. It perfectly illustrates the zombie apocalypse.
    The accompanying book is also a great adventure. It really takes you inside the minds of the characters. Although two of the four characters are certainly disadvantaged compared to the rest, if a group of four was to play the game co-op with each character, it would be a balanced team.
    I honestly think that Dead Island is a masterpiece - one of the greatest games ever made. I would recommend this game to anyone who enjoys gaming.    … Expand
  19. Kiwi_Ingenuity
    Mar 8, 2014
    8
    The trailer was misleading, yes.
    The game is unpolished, yes.
    Controls and fluidity is clunky, yes. It is tonally uneven, yes. But, the overall game is a blast; an immersive, unsettling experience. It also a great cooperative experience with friends, alike. Take it for it is, or for what it was supposed to be. The game has some difficulty, and the mechanics are unforgiving, but the    The trailer was misleading, yes.
    The game is unpolished, yes.
    Controls and fluidity is clunky, yes.
    It is tonally uneven, yes.
    But, the overall game is a blast; an immersive, unsettling experience. It also a great cooperative experience with friends, alike. Take it for it is, or for what it was supposed to be. The game has some difficulty, and the mechanics are unforgiving, but the levelling system makes up for that; it's not only rewarding, but satisfyingly gruesome. The weapon modification allows you to create diabolical devices to slaughter the undead. The game is flawed, no doubt. but the experience is amazing, for those who dare to visit paradise.    … Expand
  20. PolisKanin
    Feb 28, 2014
    8
    Dead Island is not a perfect game, but you don't expect that coming into the game for the first time. I looked at the cover art, and expected it to be a pile of crap. However, it was actually a relatively good game, with an ok story, good controls, ok characters, ok graphics and good gameplay.
  21. benoski
    Aug 28, 2013
    8
    When I first saw Dead Island's debut CGI trailer, it gave me a feeling to what I was expecting to see from the game. When I finally got my hands on the game, I was a bit disappointed, but the game itself was enjoyable.

    You get to choose between four playable characters who are fighting to survive a zombie outbreak on the beautiful island of Banoi. The four characters consist of Xian    When I first saw Dead Island's debut CGI trailer, it gave me a feeling to what I was expecting to see from the game. When I finally got my hands on the game, I was a bit disappointed, but the game itself was enjoyable.

    You get to choose between four playable characters who are fighting to survive a zombie outbreak on the beautiful island of Banoi. The four characters consist of Xian Mei, an undercover cop working as a desk clerk at the Royal Palms Resort hotel, Logan, a former football star who had his career ended in a tragic crash during a dangerous street race which killed his passenger, Sam B, a one-hit wonder rap star booked by the hotel for a gig, and Purna, a former member of the Sydney Police deparment who was sacked after shooting a child molester who could not be touched, before becoming a bodyguard for VIPs all over the world.

    Each character also represents a certain class:

    Logan Jack of All Trades
    Xian Mei Assassin
    Sam B Tank
    Purna Leader

    While guns are usable in the game, Dead Island is primarily focused on melee combat. As you explore the world, you'll come across a wide variety of objects that can be used as weapons, and this can be anything from a paddle to a baseball bat or from a knife to a machete. You also earn money as you complete side-quests or from loot, and this money can be used to buy new equipment from traders, or can be used to repair/upgrade your weapons. Be careful though, you'll lose 10% of your cash for every time you die.

    You may find items that at first, you may think are useless, but save them, as they could be used to modify your weapons to be made even more deadlier (for example, a machete modified to deal shock damage, or a baseball bat modified to deal bleeding damage to your foes.). As you earn XP, you level up, earning 1 skill point for every level to achieve, and these skill points can be spent on various skills that'll enhance your character in several ways. There are only 60 levels though, so make sure you spend your points wisely. There are guns to be found and used in the game, but since this game is melee-focused, ammo is limited and hard to find, so save your ammo when you don't need it.

    Each character also specializes in one specific type of weaponry each:

    Xian Mei Sharp weapon expert
    Logan Throwing expert
    Sam B Blunt weapon expert
    Purna Firearms expert

    Each character also has a specific Fury attack that offers deadly results when usable.

    The main story should take anywhere between 10 to 15 hours to complete, but the game is littered with side-quests, so full completion should roughly take about 30 hours. While the game can be played alone, the game's strong point is cooperative gameplay. Up to four players can join up together and play through the story as a team, or explore the world and complete various side-quests together. There's no restrictions on multiplayer, however (you might be a level 10 character, and somebody joins as a level 45 character, or you might have 4 players that are an Assassin, Tank and Leader but no Jack of All Trades.).

    Graphically, the game looks great, but there are various glitches to be found throughout the game (if you look carefully!). The game is not as buggy as it was now, but I can still remember one cutscene that suffers greatly from glitches.

    I liked the music from the game, but voice acting is a bit shoddy, IMO. There's not even enough audio from the main characters to make them interesting either, I'm afraid. There are mainly one-liners in gameplay, but apart from cutscenes (and there's not many, to be honest) there's not really enough audio to make them great characters (They're likeable, but not interesting, IMO.)

    If you put aside main bad things in this review, Dead Island is an enjoyable title that's made primarily for co-op. It may not be what we all expected it to be after that trailer, but the game works in most ways, and could count as one of the best titles in an over-saturated genre.    … Expand
  22. ChubblesTheGoat
    Apr 27, 2013
    9
    This game has a good combat system, a decent story, tons of side missions and more! What else could you ask for?! The only thing from preventing this game from getting a perfect score was the graphics. The graphics are not bad, but not great.
  23. C3realkillah
    Apr 24, 2013
    9
    this game where do i begin. i am a huge fan of this game ive played it for a total of 50 hours and still trying to unlock everything and max my level. this is one of the funnest zombie games ive ever played. the graphics, gameplay, openworld, etc are all awesome and beautifully designed. the gunplay is a bit unbalanced as some guns look stronger than they really are and the human enemiesthis game where do i begin. i am a huge fan of this game ive played it for a total of 50 hours and still trying to unlock everything and max my level. this is one of the funnest zombie games ive ever played. the graphics, gameplay, openworld, etc are all awesome and beautifully designed. the gunplay is a bit unbalanced as some guns look stronger than they really are and the human enemies are few and not really smart, but these are minor complaints of a game that is truly unique and fun as hell. if you like zombie games, openworld rpgs, skyrim, you definitely need to play this!… Expand
  24. TheCDBurner
    Mar 7, 2013
    8
    "Dead Island" was something I really wasn't expecting. It's a little rough around the edges, but it pulls enough punches to be a really freaking good game.

    PROS: Good story. Nice variety of weapons to use. LOVE the customization options for the weapons. The graphics are great to look at. Great exploration factor. Game rewards you for completing tough challenges. CONS: Game is a    "Dead Island" was something I really wasn't expecting. It's a little rough around the edges, but it pulls enough punches to be a really freaking good game.

    PROS: Good story. Nice variety of weapons to use. LOVE the customization options for the weapons. The graphics are great to look at. Great exploration factor. Game rewards you for completing tough challenges.

    CONS: Game is a little light on character development for everyone but the main quartet. Some of the special zombies feel like they were ripped straight out of Left 4 Dead. Puzzles can be infuriating at times, especially in tight spaces. Banoi is a little too big, it could've used a downsizing.

    OVERALL: "Dead Island" is a fun, fast-paced zombie RPG that will have you on the edge of your seat. It may be rough in some spots, but the good sides are enough to make up for it.    … Expand
  25. KelvinFelix
    Dec 25, 2012
    8
    It could have been better, the characters seen dead in their facial expressions and are real weird when moving sometimes, and forget about that "Hell in Paradise" thing, the Resort is just the first scenario and the others are just too boring and don't live to the promise of fighting zombies in an Tropical Heaven, but it's a great and addicting game in the end, I even got 100+ in-game hours in it
  26. nms1215
    Dec 20, 2012
    8
    This game is poorly judged- it is a great game with some small flaws. Imagine Left 4 Dead mixed with Far Cry. This game is a huge open world filled with zombies (including a good range of types), with a large array of weapons and items, as well as a way to upgrade and construct weapons using items you find along the way.

    Starting Out: The reason most people did not give Dead Island a    This game is poorly judged- it is a great game with some small flaws. Imagine Left 4 Dead mixed with Far Cry. This game is a huge open world filled with zombies (including a good range of types), with a large array of weapons and items, as well as a way to upgrade and construct weapons using items you find along the way.

    Starting Out: The reason most people did not give Dead Island a fair chance is that is starts plain- you get no real game introduction where the developers hold your hand while teaching you controls and mechanics. Instead, you wake up in a zombie apocalypse and are told what each button does (such as kicking), but not the significance of said button (what good does kicking do for me?). This can be frustrating at first, but as you get the hang of everything you learn that this is an enjoyable part of the game. After gaining experience and leveling up, and gaining weapons I chose myself, I became an experience survivor. I knew that kicking a zombie is a great way to buy a couple of seconds, or that sometimes you are better off running for your freaking life. You *learn* these things. It makes the survival aspect seem completely legitimate. Also, the world does not quite open up and get really cool until level 15 or so (it comes faster than you know it, so give it a fair shot).

    Good: This game has amazing graphics and outstanding gameplay. It does a great job of making melee weapons precise zed-bashing/slicing instruments, allowing you to target heads, arms, etc. fluidly. The missions provide exciting environments and enemy interactions, and the world is beautifully constructed.

    Bad: The game really has a poor narrative. I found myself bored by the characters and missions (they tend to be "we need their help so you have to risk your life a million times over and make these people safe without risking them in order to get their minor assistance") and was immediately skipping cutscenes and dialog. The quest log for me was not a story guide, but an adventure guide. It was telling me "here is where the excitement is, this is your reward."

    All in all, I think this a great game to play with your buddies and go zombie-killing, and just have some laughs. It can be difficult, but there are never moments where you get furious at the game or a poor teammate. The game is just fun and definitely worth the buy.    … Expand
  27. InboardPG
    Nov 24, 2012
    8
    This is a very fun game! The combat is a pulse-raiser, zombies look amazing, looting is nice, and the atmosphere is great! The only downsides are the story and the textures. The story is very predictable and silly and the textures are pretty bad for a 2011 game. However, the fun factor is great and the replayability is great until somewhere around 60 hours. This game is very fun to playThis is a very fun game! The combat is a pulse-raiser, zombies look amazing, looting is nice, and the atmosphere is great! The only downsides are the story and the textures. The story is very predictable and silly and the textures are pretty bad for a 2011 game. However, the fun factor is great and the replayability is great until somewhere around 60 hours. This game is very fun to play with friends. This is a recommendation for zombie and survival-horror lovers.… Expand
  28. FrankDHp
    Nov 22, 2012
    8
    A First Person Openworld Zombie game with RPG elements seemed like the holy grail for me as soon as i heard about Dead Island. Sadly, for ME Dead Island just didn't deliver the hype. While the graphics looked good to say at least, in a game like this, storytelling and character development means much for me but i just couldn't care for the story or characters, cause this all felt flat.A First Person Openworld Zombie game with RPG elements seemed like the holy grail for me as soon as i heard about Dead Island. Sadly, for ME Dead Island just didn't deliver the hype. While the graphics looked good to say at least, in a game like this, storytelling and character development means much for me but i just couldn't care for the story or characters, cause this all felt flat. Then you have gameplay, which usually makes up other flaws. Again, this unfortunately didn't deliver it for me either. While the gameplay and combat was fun for 30 minutes, it just felt too clumsy and kind of sluggish to keep me entertained long enough. Don't let this review keep you away from the game though, cause just because it's a flawed game doesn't mean that nobody will enjoy it. If you love zombie and/or hack and slash games with RPG elements and if you're able to look past good story and character development, then Dead Island might be the game for you! Dead Island was for me personally a flawed game that misses a lot of potential and a game that isn't for everyone. Based on how i felt, i would give Dead Island a 6/10.… Expand
  29. sooem
    Oct 25, 2012
    9
    Po raz kolejny mam przyjemność grać w dzieło rodzimego studia, które pokazało światowy poziom.
    Na starcie zacznę od tego, że jestem wielkim fanem wszelkiego rodzaju gier z grasującymi nieumarłymi. Przyglądałem się temu tytułowi od czasu pamiętnego trailera opowiadającego, od tyłu, historię    Po raz kolejny mam przyjemność grać w dzieło rodzimego studia, które pokazało światowy poziom.
    Na starcie zacznę od tego, że jestem wielkim fanem wszelkiego rodzaju gier z grasującymi nieumarłymi. Przyglądałem się temu tytułowi od czasu pamiętnego trailera opowiadającego, od tyłu, historię rodzinki, która stała się bohaterem makabrycznej i tragicznej sceny. Oglądałem od czasu do czasu jakieś gameplaye i filmiki o grze, jednak cały czas coś trzymało mnie na dystans i nie byłem przekonany do kupna. Chodziło o tryb walki i podejście twórców do gry bez broni palnej. Jako fan strzelanek uznałem to za duży minus. Jak się teraz okazuje był to duży błąd z mojej strony. Odpaliłem grę i natychmiast zostałem rzucony na głęboką wodę dzierżąc tylko poobijane wiosło w dłoni mojego bohatera. Po pierwszym zamachu i impecie rozwalającej się głowy zombiaka wiedziałem, że to jest ZAJEBISTE!
    Polskie studio postarało się bardzo jeżeli chodzi o kwestię mechaniki. Sterowanie jest bardzo intuicyjne i wyważone. Za minus uznaję tylko brak jakiegokolwiek tutoriala jeżeli chodzi o sterowanie zaawansowane, ponieważ niedzielnym graczom może sprawić pewną trudność "wystartowanie". Po czasie gdy już wiemy co do czego służy i o co w tym wszystkim chodzi, zaczyna się zabawa. Przerabianie broni, lootowanie tysięcy miejscówek w poszukiwaniu składników, wybijanie chord zombiaków i eksploracja nowych miejscówek. Sam smaczek. Gra prezentuje bardzo przyzwoity poziom graficzny, biorąc pod uwagę rozległe tereny. Design przeciwników to majstersztyk w tej dziedzinie. Poobdzierane ze skóry, na wpół spalone, zdekapitowane potwory, których jedynym celem jest dorwanie i zmasakrowanie głównego bohatera. Od wolno człapiących poczwar, poprzez sprintujące, kończąc na wielkich silnych skurczybykach.
    Gra ma również swoje minusy. Momentami scenariusz zalicza dziwne spadki i jest naprawdę słaby. Twórcy mieli ewidentnie problem z tworzeniem podniosłych scen (co może dziwić po znakomitym trailerze), w efekcie otrzymujemy parodię. Od czasu pojawiają się także zgrzyty w mechanice autosave'ów i ich ładowania. Nie raz zdarzyło mi się zespownować po śmierci w skupisku zombiaków, które już po chwili na mnie szarżowały i znów ginąłem. Szkoda, że twórcy nie pomyśleli i o spownowanu w safe-zonach. Niedoróbki pojawiają się na szczęście sporadycznie, a natłok fun'u zamazuje wszystko co nieprzyjemne.
    Podsumowując, tytuł niezbędny w kolekcji każdego fana zombiaków jak i fana cięcia wszelkiego rodzaju truchła.
    Tak dalej Techland ,)    … Expand
  30. Captain_Kirk
    Aug 14, 2012
    8
    Dead Island is not a game for everyone. Some may be turned off by the constant texture pop in, spikes in difficulty, and ugly cut-scenes. However, if you ignore these and find yourself immersed into the enormous landscape and brutal combat, you might find a very fun game to be had. Killing zombies feels very satisfying, and the brutality of it all adds more flavor to it. Upgrading weaponsDead Island is not a game for everyone. Some may be turned off by the constant texture pop in, spikes in difficulty, and ugly cut-scenes. However, if you ignore these and find yourself immersed into the enormous landscape and brutal combat, you might find a very fun game to be had. Killing zombies feels very satisfying, and the brutality of it all adds more flavor to it. Upgrading weapons is also a nice touch because it gives players a chance to experiment and try new things. There's also a lot to discover on the island, and the skill tree adds more to the overall package.… Expand
  31. ShelleyMarrissa
    Jun 15, 2012
    10
    Let me just start by saying that I am not usually interested in zombie killing games but a friend of mine persuaded me to give it a go as it is a lot more open that others. I was shocked, the scenery and graphics were truly stunning and at times I was terrified. The missions were fun and at times they really did have me on the edge of my seat and they were challenging but not as impossibleLet me just start by saying that I am not usually interested in zombie killing games but a friend of mine persuaded me to give it a go as it is a lot more open that others. I was shocked, the scenery and graphics were truly stunning and at times I was terrified. The missions were fun and at times they really did have me on the edge of my seat and they were challenging but not as impossible are some other people are saying if you do not play co-op. Don't get me wrong, this is by no means an easy game; but I think it is worth it to play alone. The story was also very good and to be honest, I didn't predict nearly any of it. Really enjoyable game, would really recommend it.… Expand
  32. hanibaldemp
    Jun 4, 2012
    8
    This game is great. Had alot of fun with friends and is definately one of my favourite games of 2011. The lack of content would be the only downfall with us finishing the game in a few days. though it can still be played enjoyably after it has been completed therefore 8/10.
  33. SCHMOOPITIZE
    May 14, 2012
    8
    RPG ZOMBIE KILLING! The only problem i see is that after 5 hours you will need to play with a friend to hold interest. This is because the characters have no back-story and the actual story is stale. However, the game-play is GREAT. The combat is exactly like skyrim's so if you don't like that then don't buy it.
  34. Jobadkins
    May 8, 2012
    10
    This game is pure genius!In the end after you analyze this game in every way,put in over 30 hours,you realize that other zombie games are in the dark ages compared to this game.Left 4 dead 2 and Dead Rising:Off the record are the #2 and 3 next best zombie games ever, but this game trumps it,Ace of spades style!10
  35. TStout
    Apr 17, 2012
    8
    This game was an absolute blast to play. While there are a few instances of bugs with clipping, they are a forgivable offense in light of the overall hilarity and replayability of this title. The characters' rage powers are different and interesting, which helps add to the replay value since the experience retains much of its freshness via the different styles you approach the fightingThis game was an absolute blast to play. While there are a few instances of bugs with clipping, they are a forgivable offense in light of the overall hilarity and replayability of this title. The characters' rage powers are different and interesting, which helps add to the replay value since the experience retains much of its freshness via the different styles you approach the fighting with each of the four characters. The variety of zombies is fun, although sometimes a bit far fetched in concept, they are still fun to dismember, decapitate, and otherwise decimate. If you are a fan of the genre, and want to savor the macabre mayhem a bit more than is allowed by the Left 4 Dead series, then this is the game for you.… Expand
  36. a2toedmonkey
    Mar 21, 2012
    10
    Its a pretty good zombie game, it sets the atmosphere real well of an island, my only problem is, when you think zombies, you think hordes, at least I do. In this game the zombie hordes that do show up, are unstoppable, and real harsh. I do enjoy that the game seems realistic, such as not giving u loads of bullets to throw at zombies, but maybe I'm in a Romero mindset and I wanna see themIts a pretty good zombie game, it sets the atmosphere real well of an island, my only problem is, when you think zombies, you think hordes, at least I do. In this game the zombie hordes that do show up, are unstoppable, and real harsh. I do enjoy that the game seems realistic, such as not giving u loads of bullets to throw at zombies, but maybe I'm in a Romero mindset and I wanna see them shambling in mass. That is just a personal quirk however and won't detract from the score here. Overall, the zombies can be scary and the situations are realistic, except for the psycho zombie in the straight jacket, that is a little far fetched, but still lovable...in a zombie way. The real con's I guess are having to repair items almost constantly after combat. You could say the fights are to hard, but I think this adds to the realism of the game itself. Everyone in this world isn't some hulking badass who can take down the zombie menace with a butter knife. Controls are pretty good, I find the skill trees to be a bit to linear. Let me explain, you can get an unlock skill, but its down one of the trees, which means if you want to unlock boxes, you have to go down that tree to do that. I just didn't like the skill trees. Overall it was a fun game, and I'd play a second one, for some reason I remember hitting a tree with a machete and it bleeding, and I have seen a few bugs but nothing game breaking. Finally, the rapper sounds kinda like Morgan Freeman when he says his backstory :D… Expand
  37. ages5andup
    Mar 11, 2012
    10
    Dead Island is one of the greatest zombie games to have ever been created. Dead island is an FPS & RPG. You don't use guns for the most part its normally melee but there are guns. What makes Dead Island so interesting is that it is a zombie game that is open world map. Before this the closest game was Dead Rising but in that game you where still forced to finish main quests within aDead Island is one of the greatest zombie games to have ever been created. Dead island is an FPS & RPG. You don't use guns for the most part its normally melee but there are guns. What makes Dead Island so interesting is that it is a zombie game that is open world map. Before this the closest game was Dead Rising but in that game you where still forced to finish main quests within a time limit. Another is the weapon customization. You can create so many things such as a clever that shoots electric currents through your foes bodies as you slice through them. There are also 4 players to choose from which gives better replay value. Multi-player on this game is amazing and has never let me down. Down sides are there are some bugs but they don't take away from the game so much, texture takes a while to load sometimes, and the voice acting isn't too well done. Get this game especially when it is the price it is now!… Expand
  38. Mattyashy
    Feb 17, 2012
    9
    An absolutely fantastic game. It presents you with a lot of first person action horror/ thriller which will keep you engaged throughout the game. There are a mix of missions, Side missions and continuous activities. It is virtually impossible to become bored with this game until you finish it where the free roam element is withdrawn from the game causing you to restart the game from theAn absolutely fantastic game. It presents you with a lot of first person action horror/ thriller which will keep you engaged throughout the game. There are a mix of missions, Side missions and continuous activities. It is virtually impossible to become bored with this game until you finish it where the free roam element is withdrawn from the game causing you to restart the game from the begging or simply not to play it. The story in this game is undeniably one of the best stories you'll come across for a long time. The characters are very realistic in which you have people from across the world with accents which work very well with the person talking. Overall I give this game a 9/10 and not 10 because it lacks the ability to free roam at the end of the game which is down to the way the story ends but still a disappointing feature. And that the game doesn't present you with that feeling that you want to play it through again.… Expand
  39. Matriix
    Feb 13, 2012
    10
    Amazing, if you love zombies this is a must buy, i have over 100 hours in this game and i still love it, the combat is deeper then what you see in gameplay movies, its really nice to choose your angles and to get the perfect distance when you play with manually controlls. solid looting system and awsome drop in drop out co-op. in my mind this was better then borderlands.
  40. Anthropologist
    Jan 23, 2012
    10
    For me, a lot of developers have missed those elements that I find especially appealing in the 'zombie apocalypse' genre. First, while I enjoy something like Left 4 Dead, in that game I'm just constantly overwhelmed, hanging on by a thread that is ready to snap the moment any tiny thing inevitably goes wrong. But a zombie apocalypse has the potential to feel a little empowering, too.For me, a lot of developers have missed those elements that I find especially appealing in the 'zombie apocalypse' genre. First, while I enjoy something like Left 4 Dead, in that game I'm just constantly overwhelmed, hanging on by a thread that is ready to snap the moment any tiny thing inevitably goes wrong. But a zombie apocalypse has the potential to feel a little empowering, too. Individual zombies are relatively easy to combat, and when most of the inhibitions of modern society evaporate there is almost a sense of relief and cathartic freedom--that is something I like about the genre. I also like the social questions provoked by the genre--the idea that some people would take advantage of the situation, and values would have to be re-visited. I am drawn to that moment when the zombies feel relatively manageable, but now the real threat is greed and the motives of other survivors. And fortifications--how survivors would hole up and organize their eventual response. And driving over zombies! I love the idea of driving over zombies! But maybe most important is what I find scary about zombies. With zombies, everything is going fine one minute, and you get a little over confident, and then suddenly you realize there is one behind you, or one a little closer than you had anticipated, and your escape route is a little tougher to get to than you expected, and youâ… Expand
  41. Deadsquiggles
    Jan 3, 2012
    9
    It's, by far, the best zombie game I've ever had the pleasure of playing. From the different types of zombies, to the ability to take on side quests and play at your speed, and then a good main story line, it's well worth the money. And the main quests aren't too short, either. I usually finished games in a day but I'm still not done and I've had it for over a week now. I would recommendIt's, by far, the best zombie game I've ever had the pleasure of playing. From the different types of zombies, to the ability to take on side quests and play at your speed, and then a good main story line, it's well worth the money. And the main quests aren't too short, either. I usually finished games in a day but I'm still not done and I've had it for over a week now. I would recommend it to anybody.… Expand
  42. Kenmei
    Jan 1, 2012
    8
    I enjoyed this game more than I thought I would. First of all, if anyone thinks this is just a Left 4 Dead clone, then know that there's a bit more emphasis put on the single-player and you aren't forced to play what amounts to a multiplayer only game like L4D. However it is similar to L4D enough that if you liked that game, then you will like this one. If nothing else this will sate yourI enjoyed this game more than I thought I would. First of all, if anyone thinks this is just a Left 4 Dead clone, then know that there's a bit more emphasis put on the single-player and you aren't forced to play what amounts to a multiplayer only game like L4D. However it is similar to L4D enough that if you liked that game, then you will like this one. If nothing else this will sate your need for a new zombie game and the open-endedness is kinda refreshing for this type of game. Especially now that the price has dropped, if you were thinking about taking a chance on this game, go ahead and do it. You should enjoy what it has to offer you.… Expand
  43. Kig717
    Dec 30, 2011
    9
    amazing is the only word i can use to describe this game. its the zombie rpg that me and i'm sure a-lot of gamer's have been waiting for a long time for. there are too many pro's to even count. the only con's i can really think of are the semi - common texture bugs, the heavy reliance on guns (once you get a gun nothing else is really necessary, and ammo is plenty) and the model varietyamazing is the only word i can use to describe this game. its the zombie rpg that me and i'm sure a-lot of gamer's have been waiting for a long time for. there are too many pro's to even count. the only con's i can really think of are the semi - common texture bugs, the heavy reliance on guns (once you get a gun nothing else is really necessary, and ammo is plenty) and the model variety (only 2-3 versions of guns, less of some melee weapons) as well as the replayability. the story is amazing, but once you finish it (it took me 2 days, minus the side quests) you cant really do anything except the story. hoping for a new section of the island or something for dlc. although your character can start a new campaign with all of they're stuff from the last, but dead island is lacking other game-types that keep most games going.… Expand
  44. ZachShreds
    Dec 29, 2011
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is a game I have been anticipating for ever since the first trailer was released however long ago, and I can say in full honesty, it was worth anticipating. I will try my best to keep spoilers out of this review but it will be difficult. I might as well start with the comparison of the game to the cinematic trailer. I must say, even though the game is good, the actual story isn't as dramatic or sad as I hoped compared to the trailer, but, strangely, the game's environment fits perfectly with the trailer: a perfect paradise gone to hell. Enough comparison with the trailer though, lets move on to the world itself. The game did a good job with immersion in the world in the way that you are fighting for survival and, under certain conditions, you can feel incredibly weak or strong based on the current environment. For instance, when you walk into a hotel for the first time, you are faced with a big challenge and feel weak, but when walking down the roads and find a standard zombie feasting on the remains of a poor man or woman, you kill it with ease. The world itself also feels very dynamic compared to other rpgs. Like you can find survivors who don't necessarily have a part in the story but can carry sidequests like a standard rpg, but they effect the world sometimes and they usually making it feel less of a task just to get XP and more like you are doing it to help the survivors. As an example, you find a car crashed into a house and a girl yelling for your assistance inside. If you do choose to move the car you meet Sarah and Bill(I do not remember the specific names of the characters so I just improvised). Sarah tells you to help Bill who was in the bathroom injured. When you walk inside you notice a decent amount of blood, a dead body, and Bill, who has a bloody cast on his arm. Now, anyone who has ever seen or played a zombie game sees this coming, but in case I really, really have to say it: Bill got bit and he has no idea he is going to become a zombie. What he says though is to take Sarah to the lighthouse(a major location of the game and a stronghold for survivors. After taking her to the stronghold she asks of you to check on Bill. Though it is not a quest, if you go on check on Bill, as a complete shock and surprise: he is a zombie! So when you do this you feel remorse and pity for the couple and this is just a small example of the immersion this game has. The graphics in this game are remarkable in the aspect of a paradise sent to hell. They also include things like screams and moans far away and, a very memorable moment, a very loud, but muffled scream to introduce the second zombie type of the game a few minutes later. The combat of the game is especially amazing. It is based around melee weapons(which is extremely satisfying and gruesome) but you can get weapons later on and there also is a character skilled in firearms to choose. Which honestly makes sense seeing how in a paradise you aren't going to find a gun lying around with more ammo than humanly possible to carry. In a bold sense it is basically a first person free roam game focused on melee combat set in a dream island gone wrong. It has horror, action, drama, and rpg elements, and if you have it in your heart for one more zombie game, let it be this masterpiece.

    Please note this is my first review so take it easy on me if you don't agree.    … Expand
  45. jcop678
    Nov 29, 2011
    10
    I love this game its so fun! I get one mature game every three months if i have straight a's I know my mom is mean but i digress. I preordered it in june when i was let out of school. I do not in anyway regret this decsion I wanted a game that could last awhile. I started playing in september and im still playing i greatly recomend this game. If you love slashing zombies and making weaponsI love this game its so fun! I get one mature game every three months if i have straight a's I know my mom is mean but i digress. I preordered it in june when i was let out of school. I do not in anyway regret this decsion I wanted a game that could last awhile. I started playing in september and im still playing i greatly recomend this game. If you love slashing zombies and making weapons you'll love this amazing game… Expand
  46. Sithlord4885
    Nov 26, 2011
    8
    After finishing Dead Island, I must say it is really one of the more brilliant games of the year. Nothing new or original, but mixing different genres like never before to create a unique, enjoyable product. Glitchy at times, and suffers from poor storytelling at moments as well, but overall very enjoyable with lots of replay value.
  47. MalignantPlague
    Nov 25, 2011
    8
    First of all I would like to say that I have by no means finished this game completely, but I feel i've played enough of it to experience the main features of the game. When I first played Dead Island, I just felt like it was a more challenging version of the Left 4 Dead games that was open-world and had MUCH better graphics. But, the minute I started playing the game in co-op, I realizedFirst of all I would like to say that I have by no means finished this game completely, but I feel i've played enough of it to experience the main features of the game. When I first played Dead Island, I just felt like it was a more challenging version of the Left 4 Dead games that was open-world and had MUCH better graphics. But, the minute I started playing the game in co-op, I realized truly how awesome this game turned out to be! And one of the most satisfying things I've found so far is the great feeling of using a sharp blade to cleaning cut the entire head off of nearly every zombie I encountered. This game is great if you are on your own, however, it becomes even more great the second you team up with a buddy, or three buddies for that matter.… Expand
  48. gemini0577
    Nov 19, 2011
    8
    I am not a fan of 1st person shooter games. I generally like to play 3rd person RPG type games. Yet, this game (like the Left 4 Dead series) captivates my interest to the point that the 1st person perspective really doesn't bother me. It is a fun game, but it does have its kinks. For starters, this game is intended for multiple players and the difficulty of some situations reflects that.I am not a fan of 1st person shooter games. I generally like to play 3rd person RPG type games. Yet, this game (like the Left 4 Dead series) captivates my interest to the point that the 1st person perspective really doesn't bother me. It is a fun game, but it does have its kinks. For starters, this game is intended for multiple players and the difficulty of some situations reflects that. It is not impossible to play alone but there are moments where someone else's presence would be undeniably helpful. Another problem is its glitchiness. There are moments where the frame will freeze and when it unfreezes you find yourself a few steps back. There is also this weird thing with disappearing zombies. Sometimes, respawning after death places you in the most odd places, which can be frustrating if you die enroute to a far-off destination. Still, there is no denying that this game is fun. I'm practically addicted to it. Going after Thugs is all the rage. Some of the quest stories are intriguing, some challenging, and some are silly (fetching a woman's teddy bear, for example) and the game's pace is pretty swift. Also rounding out the plus side is the scenery. Wow, this game is set in a beautiful place and this only adds to the intrigue because who'd expect such ugliness from paradise?… Expand
  49. PopeDizzle
    Nov 10, 2011
    9
    This is a fun game. Pure and simple. This is nothing like Left4Dead or Dead Rising. Do not come into this expecting either of those games. The zombies seem real there are different types that react differently. An arsenal of different weapons you can upgrade and make your own. I really don't have anything negative to say about this game. A 9 for the minor minor minor graphical errors andThis is a fun game. Pure and simple. This is nothing like Left4Dead or Dead Rising. Do not come into this expecting either of those games. The zombies seem real there are different types that react differently. An arsenal of different weapons you can upgrade and make your own. I really don't have anything negative to say about this game. A 9 for the minor minor minor graphical errors and glitches. Grab some friends put analog controls on its just so much more satisfying… Expand
  50. Conrad56
    Nov 8, 2011
    10
    I think this games amazing just too amazing. I enjoyed the free roam and wish for the game game to be reviewed after the games patched in the future because it takes 24 hours to get bored of it. But that's for some people for me, i enjoyed it spent weeks, weeks and weeks playing it. The next dead island called dead world i think would be kick-ass
  51. TheQuietGamer
    Nov 5, 2011
    9
    If you like Zombies this is the game to get, yes it does have a lot of flaws but it's still one of the most fun Zombie games I've ever played, and isn't how fun the game is that matters? sure you could complain that it has some bugs and could use polish in several areas, but when you only focus on the negative you'll never realize how fun this game is, it play like a mix of Left 4 Dead andIf you like Zombies this is the game to get, yes it does have a lot of flaws but it's still one of the most fun Zombie games I've ever played, and isn't how fun the game is that matters? sure you could complain that it has some bugs and could use polish in several areas, but when you only focus on the negative you'll never realize how fun this game is, it play like a mix of Left 4 Dead and Borderlands with a touch of Fallout 3 and Dead rising 2, so in other words it's a lot of fun, tons of quests, fantastic co-op multiplayer, and the ability to play through it again with your leveled up character means this game could keep you busy for possibly hundreds of hours, my only real complaints are that the story and cutscenes are not very interesting, and the four main characters you have to choose from all come across as selfish, unlikable jerks, and it could use a better save system, one like Fallout 3's would be nice, but even with it's flaws this is still a fantastic game that I can recommend to any and all gamers and Zombie lovers.… Expand
  52. poorjonny
    Oct 31, 2011
    8
    I am shocked this game scored so low. I have to say that there were a few bugs in my playthrough, but I am assuming that there was a patch that fixed all of the major ones as I didn't get bothered in the least by any I ran across, just a few minor hiccups. The story was also lacking, considering this is a zombie game I think we can all get over that. Now that the two main flaws are out ofI am shocked this game scored so low. I have to say that there were a few bugs in my playthrough, but I am assuming that there was a patch that fixed all of the major ones as I didn't get bothered in the least by any I ran across, just a few minor hiccups. The story was also lacking, considering this is a zombie game I think we can all get over that. Now that the two main flaws are out of the way we can get down to what was great about the game, as this was the meat and bones of the negativity. The scenery really sucks you in. This draws you into thinking that you are in a zombie apocalypse, or at least a B-movie as the voice acting is absolutely hilarious at points. It is so much fun to wander through the vast maps while battling the random zombies that come at you. Each one provides a lootable item. Looting is one of the most important parts of the game. It is necessary to collect many different parts to modify weapons or complete quests. The looting is usually done after attacks so it never does become stale, only a breather from the combat, which can actually provide quite a challenge at times.
    There are four classes. Each class has it's own weapon type specialty which is related to the skill tree upgrades. The zombies do level with you but never overbear your skills, I found the difficulty progression to be right on the money.
    The game is based around co-op play. With an internet connection joining a friends game is a simple process. Joining another game is also only a button click away. Unfortunately there is no local co-op, which is truly a shame as my friend and I passed the controller back and forth for all 32 hours we spent on the main campaign. These 32 hours do not take into account the amount of game we did not complete. Two days after the completion of the game we both decided that playing through again under a different class and attempting to complete each side quest.

    My impressions of the game are very high. I came into the game with very low expectations. After seeing the trailer months before it came out I was intrigued. After watching the gameplay I was pleasantly surprised. I remembered how disappointed I was with other zombie games in the past. After a few weeks of the game being out I decided to give it a try despite the poor reviews. Basically I went from buying the game as a casual time killer to being completely sucked into the absolute awesomeness of this game. Forget the negative reviews and give this game and honest chance. If you don't like it after roaming around for some time and allowing yourself the opportunity to try the different aspects then you are probably playing the wrong genre of video games.    … Expand
  53. Somogibbs
    Oct 28, 2011
    8
    Dead Island has it's flaws. Engine problems abound in this game with clipping and sometimes ugly textures and strange enemy AI. Graphical hiccups aside, this game is a lot of fun. There is a main story/quest structure that you can follow and side quests issued by people you meet. Much of the combat is melee and it is easy to get overwhelmed as enemies level up with you. This keeps theDead Island has it's flaws. Engine problems abound in this game with clipping and sometimes ugly textures and strange enemy AI. Graphical hiccups aside, this game is a lot of fun. There is a main story/quest structure that you can follow and side quests issued by people you meet. Much of the combat is melee and it is easy to get overwhelmed as enemies level up with you. This keeps the combat challenging throughout to the end of the game. Each section of the island forces you to employ new combat mechanics to stay alive so the game didn't get boring. The game is full of gore and creepiness and it was a day one purchase for me. I'm eagerly awaiting DLC and highly recommend this game.… Expand
  54. silentshade
    Oct 25, 2011
    8
    I like my zombie games from time to time and IMO this is my favourite one yet. So to start with the visuals which aren't that great, they look best in the first act with the beaches but they look rather ugly elsewhere. I noticed that the draw distance is not very good either and seeing a beach ball spawn in front of a zombie was a tad weird. The story is also not very good with some awfulI like my zombie games from time to time and IMO this is my favourite one yet. So to start with the visuals which aren't that great, they look best in the first act with the beaches but they look rather ugly elsewhere. I noticed that the draw distance is not very good either and seeing a beach ball spawn in front of a zombie was a tad weird. The story is also not very good with some awful accents and a genuinely boring plot with no suspense, same goes with the mission and side quest which should all be renamed to fetch the item because that is all it is. When I played it took me about 31 hours to finish which is a bit longer then most but I do like to explore and kill zombies. Now onto the gameplay which is where Dead Island shines, there is nothing better then whacking a zombie in the head with a baseball bat and seeing his head implode in SLOW MOTION, the melee weapons all feel nice and kill zombies in great ways and that is before there modded. Firearms fall short and are not as great to use and don't give the same good feeling a machete will. The RPG elements are also done well with the skill trees all making sense and I always found my self wondering which skill to go for next. Now the modding is actually a lot better then I thought it would be with some pretty good weapons to make which pack a hell of a punch such as the sledgehammer with the Tesla mod which literally sends zombies flying. The Co-op side of things work rather well and you wouldn't really think you had left single-player, I only experienced a problem once and even that was minor.
    In conclusion this is definitely a game you should take a look at and with about 50 hours on the clock for me, it sure is worth the cash.    … Expand
  55. anthonygen94
    Oct 24, 2011
    8
    The game is one of the best zombie games I've played. The scenery blew me away, but it seemed to me that they took so long on the scenery and wanted to sell it quick, so they didn't even give any character any facial expressions. During touching moments in the game I just couldn't get into it because they didn't have any expressions, which ruined the mood quick. And the play ability isn'tThe game is one of the best zombie games I've played. The scenery blew me away, but it seemed to me that they took so long on the scenery and wanted to sell it quick, so they didn't even give any character any facial expressions. During touching moments in the game I just couldn't get into it because they didn't have any expressions, which ruined the mood quick. And the play ability isn't very good, I rate it a 7. I beat the game twice already and got to level 50. I almost have every achievement just not even caring to get them, all you need to do to get them is just play the game. It was a great game, but they could have done better by a lot. But hopefully they will do better in the 2nd one. At the end of the game they hint at a 2nd one being created.… Expand
  56. luizciccolani
    Oct 21, 2011
    10
    Awesome game, it combines rpg elements with great melee combat.
    I really think that Dead Island deserves a better score.
    A must buy for zombie lovers !
  57. hamsammich
    Oct 19, 2011
    8
    This game is pretty awesome. Gameplay and graphis are good. Super gory and creepy at times. The cgi cutscenes were downright awful though. Many of them appeared to be unfinished and they sometimes referenced things that had not yet happened. The developers should have left them out entirely. This game's plot was pretty weak anyway. That said, the gameplay and overall experience was solidThis game is pretty awesome. Gameplay and graphis are good. Super gory and creepy at times. The cgi cutscenes were downright awful though. Many of them appeared to be unfinished and they sometimes referenced things that had not yet happened. The developers should have left them out entirely. This game's plot was pretty weak anyway. That said, the gameplay and overall experience was solid and kept my interest. It's a fallout-esque, super violent zombie game.… Expand
  58. bobbob
    Oct 17, 2011
    10
    Dead Island feels like a frankengame cobbled together from scavenged parts. Itâ
  59. shadowrun
    Oct 13, 2011
    8
    ok so it wasnt the sweeping tragic story that the early trailer may of let you believe. but its brutal. blood thirsty. crass romp through the over cluttered genre of survival horror. yes its flawed in some places. but nothing a few patches will cure. but for people like me. who love bashing zombies across the face with a blunt object. this will be your game of the year! dead island is leftok so it wasnt the sweeping tragic story that the early trailer may of let you believe. but its brutal. blood thirsty. crass romp through the over cluttered genre of survival horror. yes its flawed in some places. but nothing a few patches will cure. but for people like me. who love bashing zombies across the face with a blunt object. this will be your game of the year! dead island is left for dead (played at half speed) with a dose of borderlands. and a bucket of gore and guts, some dodgy voice acting and story. but who cares. its a zombie game! bring some friends!… Expand
  60. oilyclown08
    Oct 6, 2011
    10
    Have you ever dreamed of one day fighting your way across a post apocalyptic zombie wasteland? Joining forces with a small group of warriors, and doing whatever it takes to survive? Well, here's your chance. Dead Island has captured the best elements of the genre and thrown you smack dab in the middle of it. Video previews do not do justice to this experience. You will fight for yourHave you ever dreamed of one day fighting your way across a post apocalyptic zombie wasteland? Joining forces with a small group of warriors, and doing whatever it takes to survive? Well, here's your chance. Dead Island has captured the best elements of the genre and thrown you smack dab in the middle of it. Video previews do not do justice to this experience. You will fight for your survival on tropical beaches, destroyed cities, infested jungles, as well as a prison that must be seen to be believed. Join forces with friends or total strangers.... And pray you make it out alive. Happy hunting.… Expand
  61. Oswald
    Oct 4, 2011
    9
    Dead Island is a great game! Right after completing Dead island, I jumped into Gears Of War 3. Just finished Gears 3, another great game, but I find myself thinking about Dead Island again. It's that fun. I am writing this knowing I have Rage waiting at home for me. Point being, if a game impresses that much its got to be good. I hope to see Dead Island 2 someday.

    Wonderful    Dead Island is a great game! Right after completing Dead island, I jumped into Gears Of War 3. Just finished Gears 3, another great game, but I find myself thinking about Dead Island again. It's that fun. I am writing this knowing I have Rage waiting at home for me. Point being, if a game impresses that much its got to be good. I hope to see Dead Island 2 someday.

    Wonderful graphics, butter smooth framerate. Great artwork. Loved the side quests too. They seemed to fit well.    … Expand
  62. Jonathon
    Sep 29, 2011
    9
    I waited a long time for this game and it definitely met my huge expectations for it. I have been hooked on the game ever since i bought and playing the game with a friend greatly added to the experience. I've only had it for two days and I'm 78% done with the game, but even if the main story line is short there are always the great side quests which give you xp, mods, weapons, and alot ofI waited a long time for this game and it definitely met my huge expectations for it. I have been hooked on the game ever since i bought and playing the game with a friend greatly added to the experience. I've only had it for two days and I'm 78% done with the game, but even if the main story line is short there are always the great side quests which give you xp, mods, weapons, and alot of cool stuff. I read some of the negative reviews people have wrote and most of them were because of glitches and bugs but other then some pop ins and other minor stuff i haven't had any game breaking bugs. Me and my friend were able to join and leave our games at will. The reason I gave this game a 9 instead of a 10 was because of the story. It's not terrible but it could have been better. It just seemed like another zombie cliche where the characters are afraid and don't know what to do. Also it feels like the characters are just stereotypes of the different races. The African American who is a rapper says that his father got into a prison and his mom needed to raise him alone and he became a rapper, the white guy was a celebrity before he started drinking and became an alcoholic, and the asian has to honor her father who was in the Hong Kong police. The only character who is sort of original is Purna. But for a game like this gameplay is more important then story and there are alot of quests and stuff for you to do. Even when you beat the game you could start a new one with all the cool weapons and all islands opened up from the beginning and you could do the side quests. If you like zombie games, or any game where you could have fun with people then get this game. Even if you don't play it with anyone you will have fun but coop is pretty cool, especially when you and your friend(s) all get into a car and drive and run over zombies. For me it was one of the funnest games of the year.… Expand
  63. Bighairyturtle
    Sep 29, 2011
    8
    Pros:
    1. Weapon variety and creation.
    2. Entertaining and challenging fighting controls and interface. 3. Fair story and lots to do. 4. Scenery is Pretty and engaging. Cons: 1. Driving 2. Starts off slow in my opinion 3. Save system can be better and is buggy at points 4.Needs some polishing. Summary: I enjoyed this game the classes, weapons, fighting, and story were all great.    Pros:
    1. Weapon variety and creation.
    2. Entertaining and challenging fighting controls and interface.
    3. Fair story and lots to do.
    4. Scenery is Pretty and engaging.
    Cons:
    1. Driving
    2. Starts off slow in my opinion
    3. Save system can be better and is buggy at points
    4.Needs some polishing.

    Summary: I enjoyed this game the classes, weapons, fighting, and story were all great. Unfortunately the some of the flaws and lack of polishing can make this game frustrating and take away from the experience. After a patch and the price drop I think this will be a solid game to turn to when you want some story, zombie violence, and fps feel.

    8/10    … Expand
  64. DANIPSX
    Sep 28, 2011
    9
    Great game!.

    This game can remember you another games like fallout, oblivion or similar, but the story and the maps are not bigger than these games. The game has some fails, but its really addictive and the new abilities that you are learning across the game are great. You have a lot of secondary histories and a cooperative game with another 3 people, so the game life grows. The    Great game!.

    This game can remember you another games like fallout, oblivion or similar, but the story and the maps are not bigger than these games.

    The game has some fails, but its really addictive and the new abilities that you are learning across the game are great.

    You have a lot of secondary histories and a cooperative game with another 3 people, so the game life grows.

    The graphics are really great, and the music and ambient are great too!.    … Expand
  65. awesomex1980
    Sep 27, 2011
    9
    I think some of you nerdy types are a little hyper-critical of the bugs in the game. Yeah, there are some glitches, yeah, sometimes zombies freeze on you, your game may not save correctly. But, and I can't believe I'm comparing them, Oblivion had pretty much the same bugs, and this game actually plays smoother. All-in-all it is a very large, complex, challenging game. It was very wellI think some of you nerdy types are a little hyper-critical of the bugs in the game. Yeah, there are some glitches, yeah, sometimes zombies freeze on you, your game may not save correctly. But, and I can't believe I'm comparing them, Oblivion had pretty much the same bugs, and this game actually plays smoother. All-in-all it is a very large, complex, challenging game. It was very well crafted for the budget they had. In my opinion, if you liked Borderlands, this is the game for you.… Expand
  66. Dallange2point0
    Sep 26, 2011
    9
    I really enjoy this game. The main quest is a bit short, but there are so many side quests to do that are actually quite fun. The storyline is good. You won't get sucked into it or anything, but that could have been worse. For the people complaining that it's all melee, well, they should have played longer, as there are guns to use, and although they don't make short work of theI really enjoy this game. The main quest is a bit short, but there are so many side quests to do that are actually quite fun. The storyline is good. You won't get sucked into it or anything, but that could have been worse. For the people complaining that it's all melee, well, they should have played longer, as there are guns to use, and although they don't make short work of the zombies you'll encounter, they do put an end to the non-dead rather quickly. I also tend to use the guns for bloaters and (man, I HATE these guys) butchers from a distance (be sure to finish these guys off, as they have a nasty habit of healing themselves). I'd have to say the most tense moments are when you are traveling in the sewers. There have also been complaints of the zombies leveling up with your character. Although that is partially true (you'll have zombies that are both lower and a bit higher than your character), what fun would it be if you can just go around with your level 40 character bashing a bunch of level 1 zombies? I can answer that, as I joined a game of a friend who had a low level character. It was too easy, and although it was great to feel like Superman for a while, that feeling left rather quickly. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go repair my weapons so I can effectively crush in some more zombie heads.… Expand
  67. illage2
    Sep 26, 2011
    9
    Dead Island has to be one of the best games out this year. It's on a different setting as in media Zombies outbreak occur in either cities or countryside, and putting it on a tropical island is original. The graphics are amazing, you feel like your actually on the fictional island on Banoi.

    The combat, the gore and the general game play make this game very enjoyable. Well worth getting.
  68. Engage
    Sep 23, 2011
    9
    I'll start off by saying that I would give Dead Island a 9.5 if I were able. Dead Island is a fantastic game on all fronts. I'm blown away by the graphics, Im not going to lie, I had my doubts going in, but I can safely say that if you have an HDTV, this game does not disappoint. Killing zombies by decapitation and cutting off their limbs NEVER gets old due to the realism of theI'll start off by saying that I would give Dead Island a 9.5 if I were able. Dead Island is a fantastic game on all fronts. I'm blown away by the graphics, Im not going to lie, I had my doubts going in, but I can safely say that if you have an HDTV, this game does not disappoint. Killing zombies by decapitation and cutting off their limbs NEVER gets old due to the realism of the effects of the aftermath/cutting of the limbs. Getting to level 50 is right where you would want it, not too close but not too far away. What really makes the game last are the skill trees that you invest points in to become the ultimate zombie killer/survivor. The story is a little weak but really it is just there to give you an excuse to kill zombies all day long, which is fine by me. Think of Borderlands in that way, no good story but endless hours of looting and killing. The game can get a little tough sometimes, even when playing cooperatively because zombies are a tough fight and occasionally they really start to cluster you. All the reports of glitches are so far unknown to me (I recommend a download to your hard drive because I have had no issues at all, minus a few game freezes when things get real hectic). Bottom line is that Dead Island offers tons of hours of gameplay, which are accompanied with beautiful visuals and tons of looting. Its a big world to explore and should go down as one of the best games of 2011. Ignore the reports of "game breaking bugs" and also ignore Edge Magazine's review because I think a retard wrote it. They were looking for stuff to hate and threw out whatever they found and made it sound awful, which it is not. I hate wasting my money on video games and I did not with Dead Island. Highly recommend.… Expand
  69. thefirstknight1
    Sep 21, 2011
    10
    I never experienced all of the bugs these people are talking about. Not once, even before the patch was released. I played by myself off and on through out the game. Let me tell you, my friend and I started the game together via xbox live after we got past the hotel. We had a BLAST!!!! Then my two other good friends joined us a couple days later and it was just amazing. The graphicalI never experienced all of the bugs these people are talking about. Not once, even before the patch was released. I played by myself off and on through out the game. Let me tell you, my friend and I started the game together via xbox live after we got past the hotel. We had a BLAST!!!! Then my two other good friends joined us a couple days later and it was just amazing. The graphical glitches are VERY and I mean VERY RARE! The graphics of the game are beautiful. 8.5/10. The combat is absolutely Gorey, unique, satisfying, and entertaining. 9.5/10. Open world environments are split up into 4 areas, all of which you can fast travel between. Although, since I am used to oblivion, morrowind, and borderland open worlds, I believe the whole map should be traversed by foot, land or boat and not just fast travel. Also not everything in the open world is interactive or you cant pick up every item. IF it were a bethesda game, you can bet you can go into every building and pick up any item you see and not be fixed to the ground or be a useless prop. I give that a 7/10 for average. The items, upgrading, repairing, and modding weapons are more than what I expected from an open world zombie RPG. It is creative crafting system and I give that a perfect 10/10. Music and sound effects fit the situation and etc. I give it a 8/10. Multiplayer is just AWESOME and gives it replay value. For the first time, It actually makes me want to replay the game even when I have beat it. I give this a 10/10. A lot of people complain about how the zombies level up with you. Do you realize how easy it would be if they didnt?!?! I joined a friends game, I was level 30 and he was level 15. Literally, one hit to a zombie killed it. It wasnt satisfying. I told him to join my game instead. The point is to level up, and get as many skills as you can get. Skills make your combat situation easier thus making you feel more powerful when you do fight zombies that are the same level as you. Skill trees are pretty well thought out and since dead island is the first of its kind, it did an excellent job. I'm pretty sure there is room for improvement but they did the best they could. I give it a 10/10. Story isnt all that gripping. I give it a 6/10. In this game, it really doesnt matter as the story isnt what draws you in, its the combat, multiplayer, crafting aspects that keep you playing. what does a story matter when you are going to be replaying the game over and over again(cause it has awesome replay value)? So my total scoring average is 8.6 out of 10. Now, since we have no-life nerds who come on here and COMPLAIN about everything...kinda pisses me off. Get out of your mothers basement and get a job. Maybe if you do that you wont be OVERLY picky on a game that deserves credit. WHA they level up with you, WHAAW there are bugs here and there, WHAAW there is money in a game when you dont need money, WHAAA WHAAA WHAAA WHAAA. I wont talk about the good stuff....because I am a little spoiled brat. If it were halo, gears of war 3, and any other popular title.....I would give it a perfect 10 out of 10 regardless if it is the same quality as dead island. So, since my average is 8.6 out of 10. I am forced to give this a 10 out of 10 to combat the lamers on here.… Expand
  70. MadCap1987
    Sep 19, 2011
    9
    first of all id like to point out that i think alot of the low scoring reviewers probably didnt play much of the game to let it all settle in, after about 40 hours worth of gameplay and about 60% of my way through the game on single player and playing it with a buddy of mine, that its by far one of the best games to have came out this year, sure it has a few bus but theyre being correctedfirst of all id like to point out that i think alot of the low scoring reviewers probably didnt play much of the game to let it all settle in, after about 40 hours worth of gameplay and about 60% of my way through the game on single player and playing it with a buddy of mine, that its by far one of the best games to have came out this year, sure it has a few bus but theyre being corrected with updates pretty sharpish. Im also left wondering why the pc version has a much higher rating than the xbox version despite the xbox version being the platform it was primarily developed for and ported over to pc and ps3, not to mention the fact that the pc versions release was hampered my alot of set backs such as the accidental release of the dev version on steam instead of the retail version, keep in mind this game has been in development hell since the 360's early days, baring that in mind the game is phenominal. If this game were a drug id be lying overdosed in my room right now, complete and utter game crack, buy it now, id say that its even better than deus ex human revolution.… Expand
  71. MadclownJack
    Sep 18, 2011
    9
    I really loved this game. I get why people hate it at the moment, having bought the shoddy version the minute it got out and then screamed in unison because of it's innumerable and crippling bugs. In my honest opinion, they should have just waited a week or two, for the patches to get out instead of just whining to high heaven. Again, i must say I completely understand the frustration ofI really loved this game. I get why people hate it at the moment, having bought the shoddy version the minute it got out and then screamed in unison because of it's innumerable and crippling bugs. In my honest opinion, they should have just waited a week or two, for the patches to get out instead of just whining to high heaven. Again, i must say I completely understand the frustration of buying something only to be let down in the worst manner possible. No game to date, that i'm aware of, came out "Gold" right away, so you just needn't be so hasty to throw it away without even a second glance.People seem to forget that buying a game nowadays tends to be a risky and ungratifying endeavor, because of the impossible terms the publishing companies impose on the developers who in turn rush the unfinished games to stores. In all fairness, rarely does it happen for a game to stay shoddy and not get patched. Usually a patch follows shortly.

    The game itself is fun and engaging, showing a more realistic approach towards the whole zombie apocalypse shindig than i've seen so far. And you can preach to me about Left 4 Dead and the likes as much as your fingers can bear. Truth is, Left 4 Dead and Dead Island only share a theme. The gameplay mechanics are completely different. So it's dumb to compare them in the first place. After installing all of the patches i haven't had any trouble with the game, and i just finished my first playthrough. The story is a little bland and cliche, as is the case with many other games that have lately come out. But at least this game doesn't kid it'self and the player that it's something more than it shows. It's a simple, yet complicated, thrill ride, packed with action segments and rewarding gameplay. Many have described it as "Borderlands with zombies", but there are some key features that distinguish the game from Borderlands a little bit. The main feature being it's "Weapon Modification/Creation" feature. I expect there will be more weapons and mods in future DLC, which I think will only add to the whole experience of the game. To those who have played Borderlands the system will be quite familiar and will have no problem adapting to this game. Those who have played Resident Evil 5, will notice a similar atmosphere when they arrive in the city of Moresby. Not saying the game is original, but it's implemented features, be they action or rpg oriented, work surprisingly well as a whole.

    I will end by admitting that this is one of the better games I've played lately, better even than "Deus Ex HR". I anxiously await any and all DLC of this game, and recommend anyone that hasn't played it yet to do so, but only after patching it up properly.    … Expand
  72. emanuel83
    Sep 18, 2011
    8
    In our current gaming society where games are nitpicked to oblivion, and every glitch and shortcoming are spouted to the online community, Dead Island may look bad on paper. Why some may focus on bugs, graphical errors and the like, they will undoubtedly miss the boat. Dead Island has flaws with clipping, loading textures, hit detection, balance, saving (on some platforms), and even basicIn our current gaming society where games are nitpicked to oblivion, and every glitch and shortcoming are spouted to the online community, Dead Island may look bad on paper. Why some may focus on bugs, graphical errors and the like, they will undoubtedly miss the boat. Dead Island has flaws with clipping, loading textures, hit detection, balance, saving (on some platforms), and even basic gameplay that you think should have been addressed during testing. However, as you make your way through the body littered island of Banoi, you start to forget some of these issues while gazing at the simply gorgeous landscape. Suddenly you are brought back to reality by the distant roar of a Thug. You look around quickly and see an Infected running towards you full boar and think, "Crap...." Armed with only a baseball bat, you kick the crazed zombie then crack his head open with a perfectly executed swing. Blood and brain matter spray on the sand as the recently bloodthirsty brain muncher now lies motionless. It is that this time that you forget any criticism you had of Dead Island.

    Dispatching one of these undead foes is, to put it very lightly, refreshing. The motion of the camera, the first person perspective, the way enemies react to the force of a hit. It's all so satisfying that pretty soon you've spent 5 hours running around slaughtering the undead and haven't even done a quest. Every friend you have join your game only seems to amplify the experience. To me it's a lot like Borderlands, except with zombies... and melee weapons instead of guns (for the most part). It takes many cues from that title, but doesn't really do anything better, or even quite as good. Much like Borderlands, however, the co-op is endless fun and should be played in 5-7 hour increments.

    I remember a time when games were given good ratings because of how fun they were, and not necessarily how perfect they were technically. If you want a good time and love zombie genocide, then check it out!    … Expand
  73. Showzen
    Sep 16, 2011
    10
    This game rocks! This is the game you get friends together for and do some kickass co-op. This game is a riot you will be laughing your ass off. Ignore the story, I would probably even skip most cutscenes.
  74. Sh0dan
    Sep 16, 2011
    8
    Rough around the edges like an old-school PC game, but no major show stopping bugs. The graphics and sound are generally pretty amazing looking with some spectacular island scenery. Though at the same time it can also look bland and texture-less in a few places though that is easily overlooked due to the great sound design that helps to keep you immersed. Game-play wise, the game is veryRough around the edges like an old-school PC game, but no major show stopping bugs. The graphics and sound are generally pretty amazing looking with some spectacular island scenery. Though at the same time it can also look bland and texture-less in a few places though that is easily overlooked due to the great sound design that helps to keep you immersed. Game-play wise, the game is very addictive, with visceral melee combat and fairly in-depth RPG mechanics. There are drivable vehicles which feel quite nice and are very useful for getting around the island. The gun combat is a bit weak, and I don't like how firearms have been implemented in that Diablo organised by quality way, but I guess they do the job. There are tons of quests on offer which are genuinely fun and non repetitive, but the main plot (of which there is little) is sub par by today's standards. It has little in common with that awesome emotional trailer, but that doesn't mean the atmosphere isn't thick and eerie, it really is. The game works best not as a narrative game, but as a zombie survival simulator. And for that it really succeeds like no other zombie game has. Its a great game that I would recommend to any zombie fan.… Expand
  75. MechaYakuza
    Sep 16, 2011
    10
    The first night I fired it up I spent 7 straight amazing hours in co-op with friends. Since then I've put about 10 hours into the game solo, and it still plays amazing. I have yet to come across a single glitch in the beautifuly detailed world. If you liked Fallout 3, Far Cry 2, or Dead Rising, you can't go wrong with this 2011 GOTY contender.
  76. FatalExcursion
    Sep 15, 2011
    8
    Dead Island's strong points lie not in its story, but in its unique gameplay that provides some of the most intense combat in a zombie game, requiring you to watch your teammates backs, and they to protect you as well. With the crafting of diverse weapons, a mixture of more in-depth Dead Rising crafting, and Borderlands-esque weapon modification system, and a beautiful and dangerous worldDead Island's strong points lie not in its story, but in its unique gameplay that provides some of the most intense combat in a zombie game, requiring you to watch your teammates backs, and they to protect you as well. With the crafting of diverse weapons, a mixture of more in-depth Dead Rising crafting, and Borderlands-esque weapon modification system, and a beautiful and dangerous world to explore, and tons of skill combinations to experiment with in combat, this game provides a thrilling experience that's both horrifying and satisfying at the same time; a near-perfect zombie-survival experience.… Expand
  77. shortyluke2012
    Sep 15, 2011
    9
    Firstly, this is an amazing game. As you might of read already the environment outside is breath taking and is really stunning, the storyline is very entertaining at most parts but sometimes can feel kinda predictable. This game is defiantly for Co-op play however if you don't have on-line, don't worry as single player is also bad-ass. The skills and levelling up system is simple yet itFirstly, this is an amazing game. As you might of read already the environment outside is breath taking and is really stunning, the storyline is very entertaining at most parts but sometimes can feel kinda predictable. This game is defiantly for Co-op play however if you don't have on-line, don't worry as single player is also bad-ass. The skills and levelling up system is simple yet it works, The story is 20-22 hours long excluding MOST of the side quests. Lastly the re-playablity of this game is VERY HIGH so if you have anything planned over the weekend.. Reschedule as you might be busy. I would recommend this game to anyone who enjoys having fun with their friends and wants to waste a couple of hours a day kicking zombie butt.… Expand
  78. JHango
    Sep 14, 2011
    8
    I really dont know why someone come here to give anything less them a 8 to this game. This is a great game. I really love it. Very good graphics, great gameplay. It have some minor bugs but nothing that can male u give a low score to the game. I've been waiting a log time to play a good Zombie game and this is is better them I have expected. Great game.
  79. Slowbots
    Sep 14, 2011
    10
    By far the most funloving and entertaining title to come along for quite some time. It might not be everyone´s cup of tea but if you like open worlds, tons of stuff to do and braindead Zombies (who doesn´t) then pick this one up. This is a game that is quite literally what you make of it, so if you only like games that give you no freedom, this is not for you.By far the most funloving and entertaining title to come along for quite some time. It might not be everyone´s cup of tea but if you like open worlds, tons of stuff to do and braindead Zombies (who doesn´t) then pick this one up. This is a game that is quite literally what you make of it, so if you only like games that give you no freedom, this is not for you. For all others, you are in for a treat.… Expand
  80. Boda
    Sep 13, 2011
    9
    I'll start simply by saying this is my first ever review on metacritic. I had to speak up! I followed this game for awhile and I will admit the trailer with the little girl was quite misleading. I'm also not going to go comparing this to all the games it's not and how similar it is to others. I picked it up on launch, before reading any reviews. I'm shocked to see the scores. Dead IslandI'll start simply by saying this is my first ever review on metacritic. I had to speak up! I followed this game for awhile and I will admit the trailer with the little girl was quite misleading. I'm also not going to go comparing this to all the games it's not and how similar it is to others. I picked it up on launch, before reading any reviews. I'm shocked to see the scores. Dead Island is FUN!!! It seems a lot of the reviewers that gave bad scores have not played the game that far, a few only referencing the first or second quest. The controls are spot-on and the first person view is amazing. There has been more than a few times I jumped because a zombie is about to eat my face off. Aiming with a melee weapon shouldn't be locked on for guaranteed success. Guns seem to do a lot more damage than a baseball bat, as they should! After leaving the initial area I was shocked how much your style of play has to change, due to non-zombie enemies (don't want to spoil). The AI of these new challengers is spot on and refreshing compared to the lumbering zombies. This was an interesting twist i was not expecting and enjoyed! The sound is also great in surround sound. Being able to tell what direction a zombie is running full blast at you from is very useful. The lack of music is also a great decision by the developers. Sometimes just the sounds of your footsteps is enough to polish the immersion. Graphics are ok, by far not the best to date. They do a good enough job for an occasional "wow" moment. The damage effects on the zombies is nice. You actually see a radius and an ulna when you chop at their arms! There is a lot of "delivery" quests and some lack of flair with the characters. I do however feel the pull to want to keep leveling up, despite the lackluster back story. I hope more people try this game out and ignore some of the baffling bad reviews. I can't wait to play more!… Expand
  81. DoubleNegativ
    Sep 13, 2011
    8
    Pros: Great graphics, great controls, great default difficulty level (due to swarming, weapons breaking)
    Cons: single player = hard as balls, penalty for death isn't great enough, nor is the death respawn
    At first I hated the weapons dulling and breaking aspect, but as I played further I realized that it made the game fun. You have to understand that this game is NOT like other games in    Pros: Great graphics, great controls, great default difficulty level (due to swarming, weapons breaking)
    Cons: single player = hard as balls, penalty for death isn't great enough, nor is the death respawn

    At first I hated the weapons dulling and breaking aspect, but as I played further I realized that it made the game fun. You have to understand that this game is NOT like other games in aspect of killing everything that you see. There are times when fleeing > fighting and that is exactly what makes this game incredible. If you are the type of gamer that's run and gun > strategy then this game isn't for you.    … Expand
  82. Ramcur
    Sep 13, 2011
    9
    Mesmerizing games ! Steam 1.2.0 version is working A1 so far . Not as out of this world as FALLOUT or HALF LIVE but extremely near . Like most games lacks of complexity. The recipe is simple but the result is tasty . 50$ well spent , thanks , that's entretainment ! OPEN WORLD .
  83. Beanos
    Sep 13, 2011
    10
    I had to create an account to rate this game, just because i was so utterly baffled by the bad reviews of this game. I guess the bad reviews prove that some people you just can't please. I can't imagine that -anything- makes the people who disliked this game happy. Anyhew. This game is like the world's best milkshake. They picked the best parts of a dozen different games, and blended itI had to create an account to rate this game, just because i was so utterly baffled by the bad reviews of this game. I guess the bad reviews prove that some people you just can't please. I can't imagine that -anything- makes the people who disliked this game happy. Anyhew. This game is like the world's best milkshake. They picked the best parts of a dozen different games, and blended it together into deliciousness, and every bit is incredible. The skill tree, and items with stats from borderlands, weapons and combinations from dead rising, fallout-esque missions and targeting of limbs. It's just incredible. The -stupidest- complaint i've ever heard is that all the women are in bikinis. The first 25 percent of the game takes place on a beach resort...the men are in swimsuits too, it's a beach! I gurantee you there aren't bikini clad women in the slum-town that is the next section.… Expand
  84. MrPikeBishop
    Sep 13, 2011
    9
    Seriously do yourself a favour and buy this game! It is not perfect, but all of the technical or gameplay complaints, that seem to mar other reviewers experience so much, just pale into significance against the sheer FUN to be had in game. If you enjoy open world and/or zombie games then I would definitely recommend this!
  85. msherry9
    Sep 13, 2011
    9
    There's no way that this game deserves below an 8 from anybody who even played it for more than 1 hour. First, let me establish EXACTLY what kind of game Dead Island is, since so many other user critics fail to describe it accurately. Take the brutal and intense co-op zombie-slaying action of Left 4 Dead, the open-world exploration of Fallout/Oblivion, and the addicting looting of DiabloThere's no way that this game deserves below an 8 from anybody who even played it for more than 1 hour. First, let me establish EXACTLY what kind of game Dead Island is, since so many other user critics fail to describe it accurately. Take the brutal and intense co-op zombie-slaying action of Left 4 Dead, the open-world exploration of Fallout/Oblivion, and the addicting looting of Diablo to form Dead Island. I don't understand why people can complain about Dead Island "ripping off" other games...It simply takes proven formulas and combines them into a new, superb one. Please disregard any user score below an 8, as most of them are utterly wrong in their reviews...not to mention that they're all written at an elementary school grammar level, which should tell you a little something about the writer. I have to stress to you that while the game is still extremely addicting even when playing by yourself, the amount of fun is literally multiplied for each additional friend you're playing with. Sounds cheesy, but is nonetheless true. The storyline is about what you would expect from a zombie game, consisting of the survivors attempting to get off of the island. It consists of about 30 hours of gameplay, excluding much exploration. The game's RPG elements are a nice touch, making me feel like all of the zombie-killing has more purpose than just good fun. I wouldn't describe the game's RPG elements as light, but they're about as straightforward and novice as you can get. You level up by doing quests and killing things, unlocking one skill point every level to spend on your character. Each character has 3 skill trees with about 15 or so skills per tree. You can spend this point to either unlock a new skill, or improve upon a current one. The skills aren't immensely deep, consisting of skills such as "Improved Weapon Durability", or an increased chance to kill a zombie in one hit. There are other skills that are much more exciting than the ones I described, but the core ones are generally passive that overall improve your characters combat skills. The four playable characters all represent some standard RPG classes, which are tank, leader/firearms expert, assassin, and throwing weapons specialist (who's also the "Jack of all Trades"). Combat in Dead Island is some of the most addicting melee combat ever implemented into a game. I highly recommend going to the Options at the main menu and switch your combat style over from "Digital" to "Analog". Digital consists of you mashing Right Trigger over and over, while Analog allows you to utilize precision with your melee swings. You use the Right Analog Stick to literally swing your weapon, allowing you to target various limbs. It takes a little time to get used to, but after a few minutes, it's fantastically addicting. The visceral mutilation is amazing graphic-wise, and the blood effects are astounding. In fact, the entire game possesses phenomenal graphics and the world is never bleak or dull. The looting on this game, as I mentioned, is very Diablo-esque, and never ceases to stir up excitement when I discover another weapons chest that may or may not contain that next godly machete or sledgehammer. You can attach various mods to any of your weapons, allowing them to cause even more destruction. Since this game revolves around melee combat, I had anticipated the shooting to be clunky and boring. I couldn't have been more wrong. The gunplay is extremely fun, and is not cumbersome to utilize whatsoever. Scoring that sick headshot on an unsuspecting zombie with a shotgun or magnum is a breeze. However, ammo is scarce throughout the game, but you can craft it later on with the necessary materials. Aside from all of these positives, I do have some gripes. The normal enemy zombies are called Walkers, with the next step up being called Infected. However, I think the Infected are some of the cheapest enemies in the game. They rush you furiously without any regard for their own life, and will literally chase you halfway across the map. As if that didn't tire them out, they're a ball of energy when they finally reach you, flailing their arms in all directions and scoring multiple devastating hits on you. The most annoying part is when you are in Act 2, and you're required to proceed through the "Quarantined" area, where the Infected literally spawn every 5 seconds nearby, forcing you to either die or fight an army of them. My biggest gripe of this game is weapon degradation. Your weapons degrade at astonishing rates, forcing you to repair quite frequently. This wouldn't be a problem if it wasn't so expensive to repair them. Couple that with the 10% of your cash penalty you receive when you die (which is often), and you've got yourself an annoyance to induce rage to even the most stoic of gamers. Overall, easily one of the best co-op experiences available on consoles, and in my opinion, a frontrunner for Game of the Year.… Expand
  86. HairyLipSquid
    Sep 12, 2011
    10
    One of the best zombie games ever made. Great job Deep Silver and Square Enix it was well worth the wait. This plays much more like fallout/borderlands than L4D so be warned, if you didnt like either of these games but in all honesty who wouldnt love this :-)
  87. ZomB
    Sep 12, 2011
    8
    8.5
    I just registered on here to try & boost this games score as i think it is a real shame that some gamers might be put off by some of the negative reviews (The Edge review is so wide of the mark its beyond a joke!). I'll try to keep it brief but Dead Island is a great game but i wont deny that it does have some minor flaws.
    As i said the flaws are pretty minor & should not    8.5
    I just registered on here to try & boost this games score as i think it is a real shame that some gamers might be put off by some of the negative reviews (The Edge review is so wide of the mark its beyond a joke!). I'll try to keep it brief but Dead Island is a great game but i wont deny that it does have some minor flaws.

    As i said the flaws are pretty minor & should not constitute the majority of a review. Yes there are some graphic glitches. For example if you drive somewhere fast a texture might not load up straight away. So slightly annoying but hardly game breaking & ive seen this issue in plenty of other games including the recent LA Noire. Personally that is the only glitch ive seen after playing for about 10 hours.

    If i had to compare then this game does borrow some idea's from other games. If you enjoyed Borderlands then you will definitely like this. In my opinion the mission system is better than Borderlands as you actually aquire missions from NPC's rather than outposts. This makes the game flow more naturally. There are also elements of Fallout in how you can acquire random items to create new weapons etc. So imo the game should not be knocked for 'borrowing' some of these ideas. I think the vast majority of games also do this to some degree. Modern Warfare took a lot from Counter Strike but that didnt effect the reviews for COD...and rightly so!

    So like Borderlands one player is fun but can be more challenging without any back up. The real fun begins when you play co-op...especially with friends. If you want something different from the usual shooters & mass produced games then dont sleep on this.

    So to conclude Dead Island is a really ambitious project & a few minor bugs dont stop this from being a very good game. If you plan on playing through one player this might not be the game for you however if you have some friends to play with then don't hesitate in getting this!    … Expand
  88. Danpascooch
    Sep 12, 2011
    8
    This game is like a litmus test for reviewers, showing who played through it and who only played for about 10 hours before going "I've got the gist of it" and writing an article. I think Game Informer hit it on the head with an 8.5/10, the strange thing about this game is that it actually gets progressively better as you play through it, it's almost as if Deep Silver created this game inThis game is like a litmus test for reviewers, showing who played through it and who only played for about 10 hours before going "I've got the gist of it" and writing an article. I think Game Informer hit it on the head with an 8.5/10, the strange thing about this game is that it actually gets progressively better as you play through it, it's almost as if Deep Silver created this game in the order that you play through it, and the later portions are the result of the developers learning from their mistakes in building the first portion of the game. I feel that this game probably suffered from poor pre-production planning, and could have used a couple more months of polish.… Expand
  89. iorch82
    Sep 12, 2011
    9
    Ok, the game is not perfect, not even close. Let me tell you, I am just a casual gamer who owns a X360 for zombie games (yes, my very late adquisitions are L4D, L4D2, -both of them masterpieces- dead rising,dead space and Dead island) and who plays quite often a game from 1999, Heroes 3 of might mand Magic, weird , uh?

    I bought Dead Space several months ago. I barely played it 2 hours. I    Ok, the game is not perfect, not even close. Let me tell you, I am just a casual gamer who owns a X360 for zombie games (yes, my very late adquisitions are L4D, L4D2, -both of them masterpieces- dead rising,dead space and Dead island) and who plays quite often a game from 1999, Heroes 3 of might mand Magic, weird , uh?

    I bought Dead Space several months ago. I barely played it 2 hours. I bought Crysis 2 several months ago. I barely played it 4 hours. I bought Dead Rising, I didnt finish it. Neither DR case zero. I bought Dead island last Saturday. I have played it over 10 hours. I'm anxious to reach home and continue playing. Seriously, it has its glitches (the water stuff, sometimes you have to reload the mission 'cos the target mission items dissapear, that kind of things) The graphs, many of you may say that are not Dx11, ok... I don't have a gaming rig, but the graphs are very close , if not better than the ones I've seen on crysis 2 (xbox, of course) . The scenarios are beautifuly designed, there's lot of detail everywhere. I like how the zombies are eating the death corpes in the middle of the streets. I love how the zombies are hitting the doors to reach the survivors, I love those kind of details. So far, this is the first game that provides that kind of details fully. I found stupid on L4D how the zombies just punched you. Here they take a more "realisitc" approach to their victims. I dont have any problem with the 1st person melee fights, in fact, it's a quite refreshing aproach to the genre. I don't have any problems about respawning items, I've seen that on DR and nobody complained of that. I haven't played it multiplayer, and I will probably never, but I dont care. I really enjoy to be inside the game atmosphere, the great dramatic tunes , and the great enviroments. So far I haven't passed from 1 act and as I have read the things turn very intense!

    I don't **** understand how this game is taking so many bad critics, while a PIECE OF CRAP like RE5 was, was taking almost AAA califications. I dont understand why proffesional reviewers focuse on bad stuff for small companies like techland who try to bring something new over the table. I'm **** tired of the gaming industry. Seriously. It's very probably that I wont be playing this game in a few weeks, but, hell, this game has already provided me GREAT FUN **** ZOMBIE SLASHING moments. Yep. That's it.    … Expand
  90. Muro
    Sep 11, 2011
    8
    I am having a hard time understanding why this game is so loved by some and so hated by others
    From a technical stand point it's buggy, though not broken. The game engine lacks polish, but its not the ugly mess that some claim. So from a purely technical side its about a 6. There have been games far more polished for their release.
    Now to the actual point of any game, having fun, and    I am having a hard time understanding why this game is so loved by some and so hated by others
    From a technical stand point it's buggy, though not broken. The game engine lacks polish, but its not the ugly mess that some claim. So from a purely technical side its about a 6. There have been games far more polished for their release.

    Now to the actual point of any game, having fun, and in this regard Dead Island is very good, though dam me its difficult. Maybe it is this difficulty that some people are not liking but I am loving it, at last a game that is just challenging me at every turn. The zombies are vicious and unforgiving, which is good.
    The hack and slash rpg aspect enough to keep you wanting to level up just one more level, to get that one slightly bigger knife, that one extra skill point, to kill a few more zombies.
    So in terms of being fun, this game is a 9.

    I would have given it an overall score of 7.5 but I can't do that so it cna have an 8.
    It's not the masterpiece that the 9's and 10's are giving it, but it deserves justice from all the haters.

    One final word to edge magazine... as actual professional critics you thought this game was a 3?
    I don't know if you had received a beta copy of the game that wasn't the final code, or were just hating to cause shock and drive traffic to your site but seriously guys just get a few of you online together and play it, and tell me you aren't having fun.    … Expand
  91. DrWho
    Sep 11, 2011
    9
    Wow i really cant believe what mixed reviews this game received by the critics. For one i personally have not encountered either A. a game ruining glitch, B. The incredibly frustrating battles, or a boring storyline. Sure you spending your time just concentrating on the main story will yield you only a few hours of gameplay. But what true gamer actually only plays the game to beat theWow i really cant believe what mixed reviews this game received by the critics. For one i personally have not encountered either A. a game ruining glitch, B. The incredibly frustrating battles, or a boring storyline. Sure you spending your time just concentrating on the main story will yield you only a few hours of gameplay. But what true gamer actually only plays the game to beat the story? What gamer does not take the time to explore every nook and cranny of gameplay that the developers busted their butts for you to enjoy?. As soon as i got the game the first thing i noticed were the great graphics that push the current gen consoles to the limit. The second thing i noticed was the massive maps that you get to play in the game, split up into several acts may i add. This game feels like what Fallout 3's gameplay system should have been. A true mix of great elements, you got a little bit of FPS for the action junkies, A dash of RPG elements for the harder to please crowd, And did i mention ZOMBIES. The gameplay takes a little time to master but once you do, its a riot. Given you may not like the game as soon as you pick up the controller, but if you do give it a chance you will not regret it. Im so addicted to this game right now :D… Expand
  92. SpartanEdge
    Sep 11, 2011
    9
    I want to start by saying that this is an easy 8/10 game at least. In my opinion,this is THE most definitive Zombie game ever made,& by far best does the iconic Zombie justice,better than any other game to date,bar none,& does exactly what it says on the tin.The game does have alot of bugs & glitches at launch though,it has to be said,which is unecceptable.I'm sure they'll be fixed,butI want to start by saying that this is an easy 8/10 game at least. In my opinion,this is THE most definitive Zombie game ever made,& by far best does the iconic Zombie justice,better than any other game to date,bar none,& does exactly what it says on the tin.The game does have alot of bugs & glitches at launch though,it has to be said,which is unecceptable.I'm sure they'll be fixed,but thats not the point.Also,to get one more thing out out of the way.Enough of the complaining that the game is not like the 'CGI' trailer!.. Honestly,what game IS like their CGI trailer? But i dont hear complaints about them. I'm not sure what kind of game some where expecting due to this trailer,but as the trailer suggested,this game is about a Zombie outbreak on an Island Resort.Moving on though,the game itself is great fun to play.Not sure why people have criticised the graphics,they are as good,if not better than just about every other free roaming game out there.The frame rate is solid,with no noticable slowdown & sound is great,with those Zombie growls causing tension,especially when they're chasing you.
    Where this game excels though,& what sets it apart from any other Zombie game,is the combat,& the pace of it.I never really got on with Left4Dead,because the pacing was too fast,meaning there was no tension,& it was all about 'pray N spray' shooting,mowing down Zombies sprinting at you.Thats not a proper Zombie game as far as i'm concerned.I much prefer Dead Rising(Moreso No2)myself.It was closer to that Zombie game i always wanted,with its slower pace,& 'Proper' slower Zombies,with much more emphisis on melee weapons.Still wasnt my ideal Zombie game though,due to its slightly zaney & cartoony violence,& the humour with things you could wear,& the music.
    No,Dead Island is the real deal! It is LITERALLY that Zombie game i always wanted.The Zombie,as an enemy,is treated with respect,& is a genuine threat if taken lightly in this game.In fact with the excellent combat mechanics in this game,every Zombie is kind of a fight in its own right.When taking on a Zombie,you have to go in,get in a hit or two,then get out before it hits you back,or get it to swing at you first,THEN attack.Theres more to it than that though,as you can target anywhere on the Zombies limbs or body,by having your crosshair on that part when you attack(its easier than it sounds),Which gives you options in every single fight you have.Do you go for a tricky head blow,to take the enemy out quickly,or try to break or sever(depending on wether your carrying a blunt or edged weapon respectively)an arm to make their attacks less effective,or legs to slow them down? Or risk kicking them to the floor to pound them while they try to get up.Kick them into some water,or off the edge if there is one.The choice is yours,depending on your circumstances,like how many enemies you are taking on.Running is also a very real option if things get too hot,or your heath low.Now if all that sounds very cool,then believe me,it is.The Zombies visually show damage where your hitting them too,which is awesome,especially when you've cut a limb off,or you've broken it,& their limb flopping about,rendered impotent.Guns do come into the game later on too,so if you like shooting your Zombies too,you can,though its not the focus of this game.
    This is a BIIIIG game too,with a big play area,& many main & side quests thrown at you Borderlands style,& i havnt even gone into the leveling up of your character,gaining skills,Finding,trading,repairing,upgrading & constructing weapons.. Being able to trade objects & weapons with the other players,& heal them,& the great 4 player Co-Op in general.
    So yes,this is by far the best Zombie game to date,but as i said,at time of launch(& writing this)theres bugs to fix,some are worse than others,but once they are fixed,the game will be one of the best experience to be had out there,& so for that reason,it gets a 9 from me.Should've been released without the glaring bugs & glitches though,theres no getting around that..Tut Tut Techland.    … Expand
  93. Tornel
    Sep 11, 2011
    8
    Let me start off by saying that anyone who gives a game with so many workable and fun elements a 0/10 is just an idiot, I'm sorry. Unless the game is just unplayable (which at almost 20 hours in I can promise you is it quit the opposite) it doesn't deserve a grade that low on the fact that it is a working playable game. There are tons of quests with lots of variety to them (though manyLet me start off by saying that anyone who gives a game with so many workable and fun elements a 0/10 is just an idiot, I'm sorry. Unless the game is just unplayable (which at almost 20 hours in I can promise you is it quit the opposite) it doesn't deserve a grade that low on the fact that it is a working playable game. There are tons of quests with lots of variety to them (though many are fetch quests I admit). The graphics are very good (at least on the PC version, but you can't expect consoles to compete in that department based on old hardware and bandwidth limitations on them) and there are sooo many ways to decapitate the zombies, that no other game I've played even comes close. This leads to many tactics, such as the Thug enemies that are the first stronger enemy you will encounter. You can chop his arms off which eliminates the threat of him knocking you to the ground causing massive damage, and leaves him very easy prey at that point. Whoever said the engine limits you to 5 zombies at once, either didn't get to act 2 where the special area leads to you getting constantly swamped and struggling to live, or the consoles themselves are limiting the number of zombies, I can't say since I didn't play it on console. The biggest surprise to me playing this game was the fact that the whole game wasn't based around the resort area. From all the gameplay and trailers I watched that is what you are lead to believe, but it is far from actuality. The resort area is actually my least favorite of all of the areas, with acts 2/3 being very fun by giving a very different feeling to the game. The item prefixes tell you a lot about the quality of the item, you just have to learn what they mean (which can be hard since they give you very little to go on). The mods for the items add another level of enjoyment to the item system by giving you many options to go with for each item. Sometimes the mods make your weapons awesome, and then sometimes they fall short of your expectations and I wind up not using them. I honestly don't see how anyone can give this game ratings worse than games like Borderlands when it has way more content and doesn't get state nearly as quickly due to the range of environments (whereas borderlands had desert and more desert). It has rough spots every now and then though, as other users have mentioned sometimes you will swing and you will not hit the zombie in front of you when you should, causing you to get hit or knocked down, but this isn't often enough for me to quit playing. The online has worked well since the first patch (and even before then I was still able to play with my friends). It will pop up often asking if I would like to join others, and if I'm not playing with friends I sometimes will. All of my friends have been able to join my game and I have been able to join them as well without any problems. I think the biggest reason for bad reviews is the game can get tiring if you play for too much in one sitting. Having to fight zombie after zombie, and actually have to work at killing them, can be tiring for someone used to other games where you just shoot your way through with ease. On that point, guns are not effective at killing zombies, at least not as effective as melee. If you get solid headshots it takes many bullets, where I could have just knocked them down and stomped their head. Although against other living enemies in the game (i.e. not zombies), guns are very effective, with usually a single headshot doing the job. The environment,music, sound effects (especially severing a limb or shooting a rifle) all sound great and couldn't be better. All in all if you like games like borderlands you should try this game out as it has all of the good points about borderlands, but looks better, has more varied quests, has better items, allows you to slice/bash up your enemies giving you the edge in a fight, and allows you to do all of this with friends which, for me, made it all the more enjoyable.… Expand
  94. DamianJP
    Sep 11, 2011
    10
    Great Game, bit slow to start off, but the good physics engine and the addictive fun of obliterating zombies with various makeshift weapons makes it worthwhile. The change in scenery is great over the course of the game, and i didn't find the missions too repetitive. Graphics are great, no complaints. Smooth textures and clean edges make it a great looking title. Amazing really. Pick up aGreat Game, bit slow to start off, but the good physics engine and the addictive fun of obliterating zombies with various makeshift weapons makes it worthwhile. The change in scenery is great over the course of the game, and i didn't find the missions too repetitive. Graphics are great, no complaints. Smooth textures and clean edges make it a great looking title. Amazing really. Pick up a copy and judge for yourself.… Expand
  95. MaxxSwan13
    Sep 11, 2011
    10
    "Medkit here!" "Hey look its a Tank! I mean a Rammer!" Hmmm, this game sounds familiar. Can you guess which one? Here are the choices: 1. Left 4 Dead. 2. Resident Evil. 3. Killing Floor.
  96. Junkboat
    Sep 11, 2011
    10
    REVISION: It still garners a straight 10 in my book. The game delivers as much as it needs to. Clunky controls? Quit button-mashing. Loads of glitches? False, you're still button-mashing. I've only seen two or three, none of them anywhere near a true hindrance on enjoyment. Unplayable in single-player? BUTTON-MASHING, STOP IT. The game has a skill curve. It is not aREVISION: It still garners a straight 10 in my book. The game delivers as much as it needs to. Clunky controls? Quit button-mashing. Loads of glitches? False, you're still button-mashing. I've only seen two or three, none of them anywhere near a true hindrance on enjoyment. Unplayable in single-player? BUTTON-MASHING, STOP IT. The game has a skill curve. It is not a hack-and-slash instant win. It's unnerving how atrociously bad some of you are at taking blame for your own shortcomings. I've been at this game for over fifty hours doing side quests, the main story, and just exploring. This is the best zombie game to-date.

    The controls aren't perfect, but they aren't as bad as you red reviews make them out to be. Dead Island upholds natural selection; you make up the low end of the bell curve.    … Expand
  97. TheHarshOne
    Sep 11, 2011
    8
    I bought Dead Island exspecting a really boring RPG,must say,i was wrong. I could see myself putting countless hours into this game. Now lets start with the things i liked about the game. i overall think the graphics are great, on consoles they are great. I cant imagine what they are like on PC. The gameplay of the game is hack and slash, and some gun gameplay thrown in here and there.I bought Dead Island exspecting a really boring RPG,must say,i was wrong. I could see myself putting countless hours into this game. Now lets start with the things i liked about the game. i overall think the graphics are great, on consoles they are great. I cant imagine what they are like on PC. The gameplay of the game is hack and slash, and some gun gameplay thrown in here and there. This game is a hardcore RPG. Looting galore, and leveling up is as fun as ever, adding skill points, and upgrading weopons. The Co-Op of the game is amazing, playing with friends is the best Co-Op experience i have ever had. Now onto the bad things. The presentation has texture bugs, and pop-ups. Gameplay can be really hard if you are playing by yourself. Playing alone is alot harder than playing with friends. The story, well um.... what story!? There really isnt a story, its just 4 survivors trying to escape the city, other than the four characters backstory. The matchmaking is awful, you will drop from a game randomly. There are also bugs that stop you from continuing the story. I was escorting a survivor, and she just stopped i couldnt get her to move so i had to restart my xbox. Some people are just destroying this game, but its a big world, and there are bound to be bugs. It has already been annouced that there will be 37 bug fixes soon. If there were not bugs, this game would have gotten a 9.0, but with the game bugs this game gets a 8.0.… Expand
  98. Xx_Overkill_VR
    Sep 11, 2011
    10
    You can see an entire walkthrough of the game here:http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL19C772559E876B8E&feature=viewall

    Perfect hybrid of Dead Rising, Left 4 Dead and Borderlands(a little bit of Fallout as well). Leveling up with a skill tree, scavenging and looting, weapon mods, melee madness, guns and explosives, co-op, and a long single player experience makes this one of the best    You can see an entire walkthrough of the game here:http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL19C772559E876B8E&feature=viewall

    Perfect hybrid of Dead Rising, Left 4 Dead and Borderlands(a little bit of Fallout as well). Leveling up with a skill tree, scavenging and looting, weapon mods, melee madness, guns and explosives, co-op, and a long single player experience makes this one of the best zombie games ever. However one of the best things about this game is probably the difficulty. The game starts out pretty easy but as you level up so do the zombies. As you progress through the game you encounter stronger types of zombies that are pretty difficult to take down. The game even warns you that certain areas of the island are very dangerous to traverse alone bringing the emphasis on playing the game in co-op.

    This is the true zombie survival horror game that we have all been waiting for. The promise of death in a few seconds in the event of a zombie encounter adds to the atmosphere and the realization of the ever impending doom of the zombie apocalypse. Anxiety and fear take over as you traverse the city where you are severely outnumbered around every corner and your best chance of survival is to just run. However you cannot always escape because you must manage your stamina. Using too much of it to run away from encounters will get you winded and in the event that you get cornered, not being able to defend yourself will provide you with a quick death. Having said that the combat in the game is exceptional. Mostly relying on melee weapons, it adds a great mechanic into the mix: being able to sever or break limbs to cripple the enemy. This alone adds a skill gap to the combat system that rewards accuracy and tactical thinking.

    All in all it is a great game that has a relatively long single player experience that can be shared with 3 other players online. You will die a lot in this game and that just makes it that much better because it adds to the atmosphere of the zombie apocalypse. This is one game where you are rewarded for your skills in combat as well as tactical thinking otherwise you're "dead meat".    … Expand
  99. Jaykzula
    Sep 10, 2011
    9
    I've read too many whiny reviews about this game and how "it erases my game" or "my kicking leg changes length" or my favorite " waaaahhh!!! Items respawn!!!." These things alone are enough for you to drop this game to a 1/10. I will daresay that you gamers are quite petty. This game is absolutely what the gaming world needs. First I applaud this game for making me actually sit on the edgeI've read too many whiny reviews about this game and how "it erases my game" or "my kicking leg changes length" or my favorite " waaaahhh!!! Items respawn!!!." These things alone are enough for you to drop this game to a 1/10. I will daresay that you gamers are quite petty. This game is absolutely what the gaming world needs. First I applaud this game for making me actually sit on the edge of my seat while I struggle for my life at almost every turn which completely makes up for the fact that the floater I fought last night disappeared into the floor before I could collect my exp. NO BIG DEAL! Second I found the world of Dead Island so graphically beautiful that it easily rivals other open world rpgs such as Oblivion and the Fallout series. And last of all I found the weapons to be very cool indeed. I was skeptical at first when I grabbed a paddle and sent my first zombie to Hell, (good things come to those who wait) and now I'm wielding weapons that absolutely devastate my foes. So, I say to all you people who are at home counting each pixel on your screen so you can argue about how the screen resolution isn't perfect; get the hair out of your crack... sit down...put this game in...and just have fun with it. Ignore the zombie who glitches once every blue moon, assume your character's leg gets shorter and longer because he/she is actually Mr. Fantastic, and just chill.… Expand
  100. KingerSays
    Sep 10, 2011
    9
    I was initially turned off from this game after watching gameplay on YouTube and reading reviews, but decided to get the game in an Xbox 360 Console bundle; this is mainly because the rest of the games were garbage, such as Black Ops. I am ever so glad that I chose this... don't make the same mistake as me, BUY THIS GAME! It has the best graphics of any FPS game i have ever seen, theI was initially turned off from this game after watching gameplay on YouTube and reading reviews, but decided to get the game in an Xbox 360 Console bundle; this is mainly because the rest of the games were garbage, such as Black Ops. I am ever so glad that I chose this... don't make the same mistake as me, BUY THIS GAME! It has the best graphics of any FPS game i have ever seen, the visuals are quite honestly STUNNING (If there were no zombies I would still quite happily sit around and look at the breathtaking visuals). The contrast between the chaos of a zombie apocalypse and the tranquility of the island really hits hard and immerses you from the minute you begin the game.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

10
#10 Most Discussed Xbox 360 Game of 2011
9
#9 Most Shared Xbox 360 Game of 2011

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
71

Mixed or average reviews - based on 75 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 38 out of 75
  2. Mixed: 36 out of 75
  3. Negative: 1 out of 75
  1. GamingTrend
    Mar 1, 2012
    93
    Dead Island is a hell of a ride from start to (near) finish and is a zombie game that stands out from the rest of the pack.
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  2. Xbox World 360 Magazine UK
    Dec 2, 2011
    55
    A wasted opportunity - frustrating to play and too ugly to love. [Dec 2011, p.98]
  3. Game Chronicles
    Nov 23, 2011
    85
    I admit that I was not expecting much from Dead Island, given the oversaturated subject matter and the delayed development time. And while the game definitely has its share of weaknesses, it is pleasantly surprising in its own right.
    Read full review
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