PGC NEWS

The Last Stand series, a familiar name to those who frequented Flash game sites like Newgrounds, has returned with its latest installment, The Last Stand: Aftermath. Developed by Con Artist Games, this zombie survival franchise, set in a post-apocalyptic world, has evolved from its browser game origins. Launched on November 16th, Aftermath marks a significant shift, now available as a downloadable title on PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S. This review delves into whether this transition is successful and if Aftermath can carve its own niche in the crowded zombie survival genre.

The Last Stand: Aftermath

Fifteen years after the events of The Last Stand: Union City, Aftermath paints a bleak picture. The zombie pandemic has ravaged the world, leaving “The End,” a fortified base, as the last bastion of hope in Union City. A grim pact exists: those infected or exposed to the virus venture out to scavenge supplies, sacrificing themselves for the community’s survival, and perhaps, to find a flicker of hope for humanity.

Embracing the Roguelike Elements

Unlike traditional zombie games where players create their own character or inhabit one with a tragic backstory, Aftermath takes a different approach. It employs a roguelike system, randomly assigning characters to the player. Starting from “The End,” players drive a dilapidated car, exploring locations en route to the city’s edge.

The Last Stand: Aftermath

Each stop involves scavenging for vital resources: fuel, weapons, ammunition, food, water, and medicine, all while fending off hordes of zombies. Crucially, “supplies” and “knowledge” become the game’s two forms of currency.

Upon death, the player returns to “The End” with a new character. However, progress isn’t entirely lost. “The End” retrieves the car, along with accumulated “knowledge” and “supplies.” Knowledge upgrades combat skills, exploration abilities, and other essential aspects, while supplies purchase starting gear. This system ensures each run builds upon the last, progressively pushing further into the ravaged world.

Infection: A Double-Edged Sword

Instead of portraying infected characters as liabilities, Aftermath casts the player as one, striving to contribute to the community before succumbing to the virus. Health represents the remaining time, depleting as the infection spreads, accelerated by zombie attacks. However, infection isn’t solely detrimental. It triggers mutations, enhancing combat prowess or stealth capabilities.

Players face a strategic dilemma: maintain health with scavenged antiviral medication or embrace the virus’s power at the cost of a shorter lifespan. This dynamic adds a layer of strategic depth to the gameplay.

Strengths and Shortcomings

Aftermath boasts satisfying combat mechanics, with impactful sound effects and animations. The diverse arsenal includes ranged weapons (firearms) and melee options, further enhanced by scavenged upgrades. Crafting adds another dimension, allowing players to create essential items from found materials.

Stealth is a viable option, facilitated by specific skills, upgrades, and distractions like debris and glass bottles. Despite these strengths, Aftermath isn’t without flaws. The top-down isometric camera, while generally providing a clear view, hinders visibility in tight corners. Repetitive environments, even with varied routes, detract from long-term engagement. The unexplained disappearance of a deceased character’s inventory, especially when the car is retrieved, feels inconsistent.

Conclusion: A Promising but Flawed Experience

The Last Stand: Aftermath

The Last Stand: Aftermath successfully transitions the series to a downloadable format, introducing engaging roguelike elements and a unique take on the infection mechanic. However, technical issues, repetitive environments, and narrative inconsistencies hold it back. While offering a compelling core gameplay loop, addressing these shortcomings would significantly enhance the overall experience.