“Can you escape the outbreak’s grip?”
If the idea of a turn-based tactics game in the style of Left 4 Dead piques your interest, then Dead Season might be on your radar. Developed by indie dev Pavel Kharev, this indie game has already launched on Steam and brings the challenge of surviving a zombie apocalypse without all the typical action-packed chaos. Instead, it leans into strategy and cautious gameplay, blending elements of stealth and careful planning.
You’re tasked with leading a group of survivors through 16 missions, all while trying to avoid overwhelming hordes of zombies. The key to survival isn’t gunning down zombies, it’s staying quiet and avoiding attention. That shotgun you found is not a solution; it’s an invitation for disaster. Dead Season respects your patience and rewards careful tactics over brute force. This is a marked departure for those tired of the usual high-octane, kill-everything-you-see approach.
The gameplay centres around scavenging for resources and completing objectives, but the goal is always escape rather than engagement. Zombies and human enemies alike pose serious threats, with noise playing a critical role in determining how much trouble you get into. Making too much noise can cause a zombie rage effect, where the undead become more aggressive and numerous and you’ll quickly find yourself overrun. A single bad decision can snowball into disaster.
The game’s narrative unfolds through motion comics, tying together the missions with a straightforward but engaging story. It’s not overly long — under 10 hours — but offers a tight, experience for those who appreciate thoughtful, tactical, turn-based gameplay.
Playing the demo gives you a solid feel for the game’s mechanics. Missions are tense, with a strong focus on avoiding conflict and managing resources. It’s not a sprawling campaign, it’s a more focused experience. If you enjoy tactical survival with a heavy emphasis on strategy, this one’s worth a look.
That said, the game has its drawbacks. The campaign length might leave some players wanting more, and certain mechanics, like the action points system for equipping items, can feel restrictive. The inability to save progress between scenarios also adds frustration, especially if you lose a teammate and have to restart a mission.
Dead Season won’t be for everyone, but for fans of tactical survival, it’s a refreshing take. With a focus on stealth, smart decision-making, and a shorter, more intense campaign, it stands out from the usual zombie fare. If the price seems steep, you might want to wait for a sale, but don’t dismiss it outright if you’re a fan of turn-based strategy or zombie games. You can always try the demo — your progress will carry over to the full game if you decide to dive in.