Fighting Fantasy: Blood of the Zombies (2012)
Genres: RPG
| iOS |
Released: 2012-10-17Requirements
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Tags:
FantasyZombiesPhysicscombatBloodachievementsheroislanddeathTrapshellschoolmemorywitchdoom
Description
The iconic interactive gamebook series Fighting Fantasy celebrates its 30th anniversary with a new digital release. Ian Livingstone, in collaboration with Tin Man Games, presents Blood of the Zombies for iOS devices, bringing the classic adventure experience to a modern platform.
Plot Overview
Players are tasked with stopping the insane megalomaniac Gingrich Yurr, who is preparing to unleash an army of terrifying zombies upon the world. Every decision made during this adventure directly influences the outcome, determining whether the hero survives or falls victim to the undead horde. The game challenges players to navigate a dangerous world where strategy, careful planning, and quick thinking are crucial to success.
Critical Reception
The game has been widely praised by critics for its engaging gameplay and faithful adaptation of the original series. Pocket Gamer awarded it 9/10 with a Gold Award, highlighting its entertaining presentation and humorously violent sequences. Gamezebo gave it 4.5/5, noting that the collaboration between an experienced app designer and author resulted in a product greater than the sum of its parts. Starburst rated it 8/10, praising its authentic Fighting Fantasy experience combined with updated gameplay. 148 Apps awarded it 4.5/5 and Editor’s Choice, emphasizing its nostalgic storyline and engaging adventure. Touch Arcade scored the game 4/5, commending its high-quality presentation and enjoyable retro appeal.
Game Features
Blood of the Zombies is a digital interactive gamebook where players act as the hero. Progression requires selecting the correct paths, acquiring equipment, avoiding traps, and surviving combat. The app version introduces several exclusive features, enhancing the traditional gamebook experience:
- All-new death endings authored by Ian Livingstone, not found in the original print version.
- Kevin Crossley’s illustrations, fully colorized to take advantage of high-resolution retina displays.
- Alternate unlockable artwork by Fighting Fantasy favorite Martin McKenna.
- Achievements throughout the gamebook with full Game Center integration.
- Difficulty settings allowing for a customized challenge, including a cheat mode for traditional reading style.
- Animated Greg Staples cover art that brings the zombie to life.
Technical Features and Accessibility
The game utilizes Tin Man Games’ acclaimed Gamebook Adventures Engine, offering a seamless iOS experience:
- Universal iOS support, allowing a single purchase to work across all devices.
- Flexible reading orientation for iPad, supporting both horizontal and vertical modes.
- An automated Adventure Sheet for tracking stats and inventory.
- Realistic dice rolling with physics simulation via device shaking.
- Full-screen access to artwork through the built-in gallery.
- Bookmarking system to save progress, mimicking the traditional method of remembering pages in a paperback.
- Specially composed soundtrack and sound effects to enhance the immersive experience.
Future Releases
Tin Man Games has secured a licensing agreement to release the Fighting Fantasy series on iOS. Existing titles available now include The Forest of Doom, Starship Traveller, Island of the Lizard King, Caverns of the Snow Witch, House of Hell, and Bloodbones. Upcoming releases will feature The Warlock of Firetop Mountain, ensuring fans of the series can continue to explore new adventures digitally.
Conclusion
Blood of the Zombies combines the classic appeal of Fighting Fantasy with modern digital enhancements, offering both new and returning players a challenging, interactive adventure. With its comprehensive features, nostalgic value, and high-quality presentation, this release represents a significant milestone in the ongoing evolution of the Fighting Fantasy series on iOS.
Our Verdict
Fighting Fantasy: Blood of the Zombies is a fun and exciting adventure that brings the classic gamebook series to life on iOS. The story is engaging, full of zombies and surprises, and your choices really matter. Fans of the original books and newcomers alike will find themselves drawn into its world.
The app is polished and easy to use, with colorful illustrations, animated covers, and clever features like achievements and cheat modes. Combat and decision-making are fast and satisfying, making it a rewarding experience from start to finish.
We recommend Blood of the Zombies without hesitation. It’s a smart, entertaining, and well-made interactive gamebook that’s worth every minute for anyone who enjoys adventure, strategy, or just a good zombie fight.