State of Decay 3: Scrap the Fuel-Draining Curveballs for More Exciting Challenges

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In order to surpass the success of State of Decay 2, State of Decay 3 could benefit from its unexpected elements. However, one particular aspect should be avoided from being repeated. The aim for State of Decay 3 is to stretch its boundaries beyond what the previous game was capable of. Although the curveballs were introduced late in the development process, they possess a lot of potential for future improvements. Despite being an enjoyable addition, the curveballs in State of Decay 2 still had some issues that required smoothing out, particularly with the most disruptive feature they could introduce.

In the lineup for potential new features in State of Decay 3, curveballs are a top pick. These appeared first in Update 34 of State of Decay 2, and they bring unexpected changes to the game during their duration. Some curveballs can be beneficial, like weakening zombies or reducing their numbers, while others may have negative effects such as draining community stamina. Each curveball is unique, with some affecting specific locations, while others span across the entire map. Some curveballs will only end once a particular objective within the game is completed. Curveballs can be challenging but they keep players of State of Decay 2 on their toes and typically make for an enjoyable experience – except for one occasion.

State of Decay 3 Doesn’t Need Curveballs That Drain Fuel From Vehicles

A Couple of Curveballs Make Driving a Chore in State of Decay 2

In the game ‘State of Decay 2’, vehicles play a crucial role, as they are essential for traveling beyond a short distance from your home base. However, certain unforeseen circumstances can significantly affect vehicle performance, and these can be quite expensive. One such scenario is called Bangernomics, which causes vehicles to struggle with acceleration, lose their brakes, and consume fuel at an alarmingly fast rate. A potential variant of The Black Heart mutation intensifies this issue even more, draining fuel so rapidly that cars become nearly unusable. Both scenarios share the same inconvenient consequence: Making it extremely difficult to drive vehicles in ‘State of Decay 2’.

The Black Heart isn’t in need of an additional burden like a fuel consumption penalty, as it already presents quite a challenging pitch on its own.

Fuel Penalties Are More Obstructive than Challenging

As a gamer, I’m really looking forward to seeing many of the exciting twists and turns that State of Decay 3 might bring. However, the fuel-draining curveballs are something I could do without. Instead of adding an interesting layer of challenge, features like Bangernomics and the Black Heart’s fuel penalty feel more like obstacles that hinder progression. These penalties force us to either burn through our precious fuel reserves for otherwise routine drives or halt our travels until the effects wear off. Frankly, it feels less like an engaging part of the game and more like a hindrance, making these curveballs not so great in my book.

State of Decay 3 Needs Curveballs That Don’t Impede the Game’s Fun Factor

In State of Decay 3, the plague doesn’t necessarily have to rely on penalties for player fuel consumption since there are numerous intriguing ways it can pose a threat. For example, Screamers and Ferals might get temporary boosts, much like Bloaters and Juggernauts in State of Decay 2. Moreover, fresh surprises could affect the map or community in unique manners, such as infecting an active outpost. The Bangernomics challenge could also be reused without the crippling fuel penalty if required. Essentially, there are plenty of creative ways to test players with unexpected challenges that won’t hinder their advancement.

Incorporating unexpected challenges (curveballs) in State of Decay 3 could be beneficial, but it’s crucial for developers to address any underlying issues first to ensure a smooth launch. Eliminating penalties on fuel consumption would minimize potential obstacles during the early stages, reducing frustration. While the unpredictable elements (twists) in State of Decay 2 were generally appreciated, State of Decay 3 should avoid features that make the game more tedious rather than difficult.

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2025-02-16 22:25