In a genre where extraction shooters are increasingly common, it's refreshing to find a game that strives to stand out. That's exactly what Good Fun Corporation aims to achieve with Hunger, their upcoming first-person action-RPG powered by Unreal Engine 5. I had the chance to sit down with the developers to get a glimpse of this zombie-themed game that promises an extraction loop with a twist.
The team at Good Fun Corporation is keen to differentiate Hunger from the typical extraction shooter. From my hands-off demo of an early build, it's clear that Hunger is poised to be a unique addition to the genre. While an official release date remains under wraps, the anticipation is building for this game that promises to be more than just another entry in the crowded Steam market.
Hunger - First Screenshots
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Two aspects of Hunger immediately caught my attention: its visual aesthetic and its stunning graphics. Game director Maximilian Rea described the game's style as "Renaissance gothic," a fitting description for a game that blends first-generation firearms with brutal melee weapons within gritty, lived-in towns and majestic castles. The use of Unreal Engine 5 is exemplary, with lush foliage, dynamic lighting, and detailed textures that make Hunger one of the most visually impressive games I've seen using this engine.
While I couldn't get hands-on with the game yet, the demo showcased a design that seems built to last. The developers aim to combine the simplicity of ARC Raiders with the complexity of Escape From Tarkov. Players start in the Outer Ramparts, a social, violence-free hub within the Chateau, where you can interact with other players and NPCs. Here, you can switch to a third-person perspective, though combat remains first-person. You can engage with characters like Piro, the quirky shopkeeper, or Louis, the Stashmaster, to manage your inventory and embark on quests.
The initial Early Access release will feature three maps: Jacques Bridge, Sombre Forest, and Sarlat Farm, each spanning one square kilometer and boasting a large dungeon beneath. Each map will offer six weather varieties, including different times of day, with more dynamic elements planned post-launch. Rea aims for 50-60 hours of content, leading to the unlocking of the Cauldron, where players can choose from six professions—three for gathering and three for crafting. You can have two professions at a time, adding depth to your gameplay.
The game's narrative unfolds through civil conflict caused by The End, a bacteria that led to the Hunger. Players can discover lore through Missives and Maps, which can be extracted and read back at the Chateau for XP and story progression. NPC dialogue will also play a crucial role in storytelling, ensuring a rich narrative experience.
Combat in Hunger offers strategic choices, with melee attacks allowing for silent takedowns and ranged weapons drawing more zombies. The game features 33 weapons, from daggers to primitive machine guns, with exotic ammo adding special effects. Dedicated PvP experiences are included for those seeking competitive play, alongside a Mastery Tree that offers progression from levels 10 to 100 across four skill trees: Physiology, Survival, Martial, and Cunning.
Hunger supports solo and duo play, ensuring that smaller groups can progress effectively. Progression cosmetics are unlocked as you level up and defeat bosses, adding personalization to your gear.
HUNGERGOOD FUN CORPORATION Wishlist
Notably, Hunger won't be free-to-play, avoiding the pitfalls of pay-to-win mechanics and battle passes. Instead, a "Support the Developers" edition will offer additional cosmetics for those willing to invest more than the standard $30 price point.
Expeditions in Hunger are designed to be manageable, with sessions lasting around 30-35 minutes, making it easy to play and feel accomplished without being tied to a live-service model. Every session contributes to XP gains, ensuring that no time spent in the game feels wasted. "If they've played for an hour, we want them to feel like they've meaningfully moved the ball forward for their character," Rea emphasized.
While Hunger is still some time away, the developers' vision and early progress are promising. Known for creating Hell Let Loose, Good Fun Corporation seems set to deliver another unique gaming experience. Keep an eye on IGN for more updates as Hunger's development progresses.
