Zombie games continue to be a big hit with gamers everywhere. The thrill of surviving in a world overrun by the undead makes for exciting gameplay that keeps players on the edge of their seats. With so many titles available for the PlayStation 5, finding the right zombie game can be overwhelming.
The PS5 offers some of the best zombie apocalypse games with improved graphics, faster loading times, and immersive gameplay that previous console generations couldn’t match. From survival horror classics to open-world adventures, there’s something for everyone who enjoys battling the undead. Whether you prefer strategic team-based gameplay or intense single-player stories, the PS5 zombie game library has plenty to offer.
1. The Last of Us Part II Remastered
The Last of Us Part II Remastered brings Ellie and Abby’s emotional journey to the PS5 with enhanced graphics and new features. Released in January 2024, this version improves upon the already acclaimed 2020 original with PS5-specific upgrades.
The game now features improved visuals that take advantage of the PlayStation 5’s hardware capabilities. Players will notice sharper textures, better lighting, and more fluid animations throughout the post-apocalyptic world.
One of the biggest additions is the new roguelike mode called “No Return.” This survival experience gives players fresh challenges beyond the main story, adding significant replay value to the package.
For those who haven’t played the original, The Last of Us Part II Remastered follows Ellie’s quest for vengeance in a world ravaged by a fungal infection that turns humans into zombie-like creatures. The narrative switches between her perspective and that of Abby, creating a complex tale about the cycle of violence.
The combat remains tense and brutal, requiring players to carefully manage resources while facing both infected enemies and hostile human survivors. Stealth is often your best option, though direct confrontation is sometimes unavoidable.
The Last of Us Part II Remastered has been widely praised as “the definitive version” of Naughty Dog’s acclaimed title. Critics have noted that it’s worth experiencing for both newcomers and returning players.
The game balances quiet emotional moments with intense action sequences. Guitar playing segments return, allowing players to strum along to songs including the haunting rendition of “Take On Me” that struck a chord with fans of the original.
If you enjoy zombie games on PS5, this remaster should be at the top of your list. The combination of storytelling, gameplay refinements, and technical improvements makes it a standout entry in the console’s library of undead-themed titles.
2. Resident Evil Village
Resident Evil Village takes the horror franchise to new heights on PS5. Released as the eighth main entry in the series, it continues Ethan Winters’ story after the events of Resident Evil 7.
The game throws players into a mysterious European village filled with werewolf-like creatures and other monsters. Unlike previous games focusing purely on zombies, Village expands the enemy types while maintaining the series’ horror roots.
The PS5 version showcases impressive graphics with minimal loading times. Detailed environments come to life with enhanced lighting effects that make exploring the castle and village genuinely terrifying.
Combat feels responsive and tense. The game balances resource management with action sequences, making every bullet count during encounters with the game’s varied enemies.
Resident Evil Village features an intriguing story where Ethan searches for his kidnapped daughter. This personal stake makes the horrifying journey through the village more emotionally impactful.
Lady Dimitrescu became an instant gaming icon with her towering presence. The tall vampire lady is just one of several unique villains players encounter throughout the game.
The four distinct areas in Village offer variety in both gameplay and scenery. Each section has its own atmosphere and threats, preventing the experience from becoming stale.
The game runs at a smooth 60 frames per second on PS5 with ray tracing enabled. These technical improvements make the already impressive visuals even more immersive.
Reviews praise how Village represents a bold step forward for the series. It combines elements from beloved earlier games while introducing new ideas that keep the franchise fresh.
The Mercenaries mode adds replay value beyond the main story. This arcade-style challenge mode lets players test their combat skills in timed scenarios.
PS5’s DualSense controller enhances immersion with adaptive triggers that offer resistance when firing different weapons. The haptic feedback makes each encounter feel more intense.
3. Dying Light 2 Stay Human
Dying Light 2 takes zombie survival to new heights with its focus on parkour movement and day-night cycles. The game builds on what made the original great while expanding the world and stakes considerably.
The parkour system feels smooth and responsive, letting players zip across rooftops and dodge zombies with style. Movement in this game isn’t just functional—it’s a core part of the fun that makes exploring the city exciting and freeing.
Combat mixes melee weapons with creative tools, giving players multiple ways to handle both human and zombie threats. You can craft weapons, modify them, and develop your own fighting style as you progress.
At night, the game transforms into a genuine horror experience. The stronger zombies come out after dark, creating a risk-reward system where the most valuable loot requires facing the most dangerous situations.
The story follows Aiden Caldwell, a wanderer searching for his sister in a city divided by faction conflict. Your choices actually matter here, affecting which areas of the city you can access and how NPCs respond to you.
Visually, the game shines on PS5 with impressive graphics and ray tracing options. The city feels alive (or undead) with detailed environments that tell stories about what happened before the fall.
The open world is dense with activities and side quests that break up the main storyline. Each district has its own feel and challenges to overcome.
Critics have praised the game for upgrading nearly every aspect of the original, from combat to movement to world design. The game offers dozens of hours of content even before exploring everything.
IGN called it “an ambitious zombie action adventure” packed with quality parkour and an engaging open world. The game balances action, horror, and RPG elements effectively.
Co-op play lets you join friends to take on missions together, adding replay value beyond the single-player experience. Tackling night runs with friends adds a new dimension to the gameplay.
The game’s progression system lets you customize your character toward different playstyles, whether you prefer stealth, direct combat, or something in between.
4. Days Gone
Days Gone offers an exciting zombie apocalypse experience on the PS5. Players take on the role of Deacon St. John, a former outlaw biker trying to survive in a pandemic-ravaged world.
The game stands out for its massive hordes of zombies that create truly tense moments. These encounters force players to think strategically about how to approach each situation.
Riding through the open world on Deacon’s motorcycle adds a unique element to the typical zombie game formula. The bike becomes your constant companion as you travel across the Broken Road.
The PS5 version runs smoothly with improved frame rates and resolution compared to its original PS4 release. These technical improvements make the game more immersive.
Many fans consider it one of the best zombie games ever made. The combination of story, gameplay, and zombie action hits the right balance for apocalypse fans.
The environment feels alive and dangerous. Weather changes affect gameplay, and the day-night cycle creates different challenges as the infected become more aggressive after dark.
Combat offers variety with both melee and ranged weapons. Players can craft items, upgrade their bike, and develop new skills throughout their journey.
Story-wise, Days Gone focuses on human relationships in a broken world. Deacon’s personal mission drives the narrative forward while introducing players to various survivor camps.
The game features realistic gameplay with resource management being crucial. Ammo, fuel, and crafting materials are limited, adding tension to each encounter.
For zombie game fans who enjoy both action and story, Days Gone delivers a compelling experience. The PS5 version takes full advantage of the console’s power for smoother gameplay.
Unlike some other zombie titles, Days Gone emphasizes the motorcycle travel aspect. This creates a different feel as players must maintain their bike while surviving the apocalypse.
The hostile environment contains not just zombies but also dangerous human factions. This variety of enemies keeps the gameplay fresh throughout the lengthy campaign.
5. Back 4 Blood
Back 4 Blood stands out as a thrilling zombie shooter for PS5 players. Created by the same team behind Left 4 Dead, this game brings fresh ideas to the co-op zombie genre.
The game features intense first-person action where you team up with friends to battle the “Ridden” – the game’s version of zombies. Players can choose from several characters called “Cleaners,” each with unique skills and bonuses.
What makes Back 4 Blood special is its card system. Before each run, you build a deck that gives you different perks. The game also plays cards that change the challenges you’ll face. This keeps each playthrough feeling new and exciting.
The gunplay feels solid and satisfying. Weapons have weight to them, and shooting zombies provides good feedback. The variety of guns lets players find their preferred zombie-killing style.
Level design in Back 4 Blood deserves praise. The environments are vibrant and intricate, offering different paths and challenges. This variety helps keep the game interesting even after multiple sessions.
The zombie types add strategic depth. Beyond basic enemies, you’ll face special Ridden that force you to adapt your tactics. Some charge at you, others spit acid, and the larger ones can quickly end your run if you’re not careful.
While the story isn’t the main focus, it provides enough context for your zombie-slaying adventures. The characters have personality, with banter that makes the apocalypse a bit more bearable.
Back 4 Blood shines brightest when played with friends. The co-op experience encourages teamwork and communication. Solo play is possible but lacks some of the fun of coordinating with a squad.
PS5 owners benefit from improved loading times and better graphics compared to previous-gen versions. The haptic feedback through the DualSense controller adds to the immersion when firing different weapons.
For those looking for a fun spin on zombie games, Back 4 Blood delivers. It balances familiar zombie-shooting action with enough new ideas to feel fresh in the crowded genre.
6. Dead Island 2
Dead Island 2 has finally arrived after a long nine-year wait. Released in April 2023, this zombie slasher delivers the ridiculous fun that fans hoped for.
The game offers some of the most satisfying zombie combat on PS5. Players can create wild weapon combinations to tear through the undead in incredibly graphic ways.
Set in a quarantined Los Angeles, the game gives players beautiful yet dangerous environments to explore. The California setting provides a sunny backdrop that contrasts with the gruesome zombie action.
One standout feature is the FLESH system (Fully Locational Evisceration System for Humanoids). This tech creates realistic damage when you attack zombies, making combat feel brutal and immediate.
While Dead Island 2 ranks fifth among PS5 zombie games according to some critics, it delivers exactly what it promises – gory zombie killing in a beautiful setting.
The game isn’t perfect. Some reviewers note it could provide more creative zombie slaughtering options. There might be balance issues that limit how inventive players can get with their zombie destruction.
Still, many consider it the best zombie game of 2023. The combat feels rewarding, and the variety of zombies keeps the action fresh throughout the campaign.
The story isn’t groundbreaking, but it serves its purpose. You play as one of several “slayers” who are immune to the zombie virus but slowly turning. This creates an interesting twist on the typical zombie narrative.
What really shines is the moment-to-moment gameplay. Smashing, slicing, and blasting zombies never gets old, especially with the game’s detailed damage system.
Kotaku’s review describes it as delivering “all the ridiculous fun you had hoped for.” This sums up the Dead Island 2 experience – it’s not trying to reinvent the zombie genre, just give players a blood-soaked good time.
For PS5 owners looking for zombie action, Dead Island 2 offers gorgeous visuals, responsive controls, and enough content to keep you busy for many hours of undead mayhem.
7. The Walking Dead: Destinies
The Walking Dead: Destinies lets players revisit the early seasons of the popular zombie TV show. You can remake classic decisions or create new paths for characters like Rick Grimes.
Unfortunately, this game has serious problems. The zombie AI is particularly disappointing, with enemies that often get stuck in walls, glitch through ceilings, and collide with each other. These technical issues break immersion quickly.
Combat feels clunky and repetitive. The few zombie models make encounters feel samey after just a short time playing. Most players will notice the limited variety early on.
The game offers some interesting “what if” scenarios for fans of the show. What if Shane survived? What if Rick never woke up from his coma? These alternate storylines might interest dedicated Walking Dead followers.
Graphics and presentation fall below PS5 standards. Character models look stiff, and environments lack detail. Many players will find the visual quality disappointing for a current-gen console.
The gameplay loop centers on exploring areas, fighting zombies, and collecting supplies. You’ll also make narrative choices that change the story. However, reviews suggest the execution is poor across these elements.
Players who push through can experience a “broken state” mode where survival becomes increasingly difficult as zombie threats mount. This might appeal to those seeking a challenge.
Multiple reviewers have called The Walking Dead: Destinies one of the weaker zombie games available. Even die-hard fans of the franchise might want to approach with caution.
The game features familiar locations from the show and includes voice acting that tries to capture the characters. Sadly, the execution doesn’t match the ambition of reliving these iconic moments.
8. Resident Evil 4 (2023)
Resident Evil 4 (2023) brings new life to a classic zombie game. This remake stays true to the original while adding modern graphics and gameplay improvements for PS5 players.
The game follows Leon Kennedy as he tries to rescue the president’s daughter from a village full of infected people. These aren’t typical zombies but infected villagers called “Ganados” who can think and use weapons.
The remake keeps the over-the-shoulder camera view that made the original famous. But now the controls feel smoother and more responsive, making combat more fun.
Gorgeous visuals and bloody action make this game stand out. The lighting effects create a spooky atmosphere that keeps players on edge throughout the adventure.
Combat feels satisfying with a mix of shooting, knife attacks, and special moves. Players can upgrade weapons, buy items, and find treasures just like in the original game.
The remake adds new side quests and expands some areas to explore. This gives fans of the original game something fresh while keeping the main story intact.
Horror elements appear throughout the game, not just in specific sections. This creates a constant feeling of danger as players never know when something scary might happen.
The voice acting and character models have been completely redone. Characters show more emotion, making the story more engaging than before.
For those who played the original, this version offers enough changes to feel new. For newcomers, it’s an excellent way to experience a zombie game classic.
The game takes about 15-20 hours to complete the main story. Additional modes like Mercenaries add more playtime for those who want extra challenges.
Many consider this one of the best PS5 zombie games available. It combines action, horror, and puzzles in a way that keeps players engaged from start to finish.
9. Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster
The Dead Rising Deluxe Remaster brings the beloved 2006 zombie classic to PS5 with significant improvements. This version stays true to the original while enhancing what made it special in the first place.
Graphics have received a major overhaul compared to previous HD releases. The visual improvements make this chaotic zombie-slaying adventure look better than ever while maintaining its unique style and atmosphere.
Players take control of photojournalist Frank West in a shopping mall overrun by zombies. The game’s 72-hour structure remains intact, creating the same tension and urgency fans remember. Time management is key as you rescue survivors and uncover the truth behind the outbreak.
What makes Dead Rising special is its weapon variety. Almost anything in the mall can become a zombie-smashing tool. From baseball bats to lawn mowers, the creativity in combat still feels fresh and fun.
The remaster adds welcome quality-of-life improvements. Auto-saving, revamped controls, and an improved UI make the experience more accessible without sacrificing challenge. These changes help the game feel modern while keeping its core identity.
Critics have praised how well the remaster preserves what fans love. One review notes it’s “a great time largely thanks to the simple fact that the original game is so solid and timeless”. The gameplay loop of fighting zombies, saving survivors, and uncovering conspiracies remains compelling.
For newcomers, this version offers the easiest entry point to experience this zombie classic. Veteran players will find the same game they love but with smoother performance and better visuals.
The PS5 version takes advantage of the console’s power with faster loading times and stable performance. Even when hundreds of zombies fill the screen, the game maintains its smooth gameplay.
Despite being nearly two decades old, Dead Rising’s formula still feels unique in the zombie genre. The mix of horror, action, and dark humor creates an experience unlike other zombie games on PS5.
Some fans might find the remaster makes the game a bit easier than the original, but the core challenge remains. Escorting survivors and managing the time limit still requires skill and planning.
10. Horizon Forbidden West
Horizon Forbidden West might not be a traditional zombie game, but it offers a unique take on the post-apocalyptic genre that PS5 players shouldn’t miss. Set in a world where mechanical beasts roam freely, this game delivers stunning visuals and immersive gameplay.
The game follows Aloy as she ventures into the Forbidden West, facing new dangers and uncovering secrets about the world’s past. Though it doesn’t feature traditional zombies, the mechanical creatures provide a similar threat – hunting in packs and creating tense encounters.
PS5 players will appreciate the enhanced graphics that bring the post-apocalyptic landscapes to life. The game uses the console’s power to create detailed environments from lush forests to desert ruins.
Combat feels responsive and strategic. Players need to target specific parts of the machines, using different weapons and tactics based on what they’re fighting. This adds a layer of depth not found in many other survival games.
The story stands out with strong character development and world-building. Players discover how civilization collapsed and how survivors built new societies in the aftermath. These elements make the world feel lived-in and believable.
Exploration rewards curious players with stunning vistas and hidden secrets. The open world design encourages players to venture off the beaten path to find resources and special gear.
While not focused on zombies specifically, Horizon Forbidden West captures that same feeling of surviving in a dangerous world where humans are no longer the dominant species. The awe-inspiring machines create tense moments similar to facing zombie hordes.
The PS5 version takes advantage of the DualSense controller, adding haptic feedback that makes combat feel more impactful. Drawing a bow or setting traps provides tactile responses that increase immersion.
For players who enjoy both combat and story, Horizon strikes a good balance. The narrative gives purpose to exploration while action sequences keep adrenaline flowing throughout the adventure.
Understanding the Appeal of Zombie Games
Zombie games continue to captivate PS5 gamers through their unique blend of horror, survival elements, and challenging gameplay. These titles offer players a chance to test their skills in post-apocalyptic worlds where danger lurks around every corner.
Features of Great Zombie Games
A top-notch zombie game on PS5 needs several key elements to stand out. Massive hordes create tension and challenge players’ combat skills. Games like Days Gone deliver this with realistic encounters that keep players on edge.
Strong storytelling also matters. The Last of Us series wins fans through compelling narratives that add depth to the zombie experience.
Great zombie games typically include:
- Resource management that forces tough choices
- Crafting systems for weapon customization
- Open worlds with day/night cycles
- Character progression through skills or equipment
Sound design plays a huge role too. The distant moan of zombies or sudden screams create an atmosphere that keeps players immersed and scared.
Evolution of Zombie Games on PS5
The PS5 has taken zombie games to new heights with improved graphics and gameplay. Early zombie titles focused mainly on shooting, but modern games offer more complex experiences.
Recent hits like Dying Light 2 and Dead Island 2 showcase how the genre has evolved. They feature advanced movement mechanics, complex melee combat, and detailed environments that weren’t possible on older consoles.
The PS5’s SSD allows for seamless open worlds with minimal loading screens, making exploration more immersive. Haptic feedback through the DualSense controller lets players feel every zombie encounter.
Some games now mix genres. Plants vs. Zombies brought tower defense elements, while other titles incorporate RPG mechanics, crafting, or even roguelike elements.
Tips for Playing Zombie Games
Surviving in zombie games takes skill and strategy. These games reward careful planning and quick thinking, whether you’re playing alone or with friends.
Effective Survival Strategies
Always manage your resources carefully. Ammo, health items, and crafting materials are precious in most zombie games like Days Gone. Don’t waste bullets if melee attacks will do the job.
Learn the zombie types and their weaknesses. In games like Resident Evil Village, different enemies require different tactics. Headshots are usually effective, but not always the best choice.
Create safe zones when possible. Find defensible areas with limited entry points where you can recover and regroup.
Sound discipline matters! Many zombie games use noise mechanics that attract more enemies. Walk instead of run when possible, and consider using silent weapons.
Take time to explore. The best survival-horror games reward thorough searches with hidden resources and upgrades.
Multiplayer Mode Tips
Communication is key in co-op modes. Use headsets and develop clear callouts for danger, resources, and objectives. This is especially important in games like Back 4 Blood.
Assign roles based on player strengths and weapon loadouts. Have someone focus on crowd control, another on special enemies, and others on objectives or healing.
Resource sharing protocol:
- Share ammo with teammates who need it most
- Distribute health items evenly
- Let specialists use their preferred weapons
Don’t bunch up too closely. Spreading out prevents the whole team from being overwhelmed at once but stay close enough to help each other.
Practice specific maps and scenarios to develop effective strategies. Many zombie games have predictable spawn patterns you can learn and exploit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Zombie games on PS5 offer a mix of story-driven experiences, multiplayer action, and open-world adventures. Players have several options depending on their preferred gameplay style and budget.
What are the top-rated zombie games available on PS5?
The Last of Us Part II Remastered stands out as one of the highest-rated zombie games on PS5, with its compelling story and stunning graphics. The game expertly showcases the PS5’s capabilities with enhanced visuals and performance.
Resident Evil Village also ranks high among critics and players. Its first-person horror experience combines traditional zombies with other nightmarish creatures in a European village setting.
Dying Light 2 Stay Human has earned praise for its parkour mechanics and day-night cycle that transforms the gameplay experience. The night sequences are particularly intense as more dangerous zombies emerge.
Which multiplayer zombie games on PS5 do gamers recommend?
Back 4 Blood is often recommended by gamers looking for cooperative zombie-slaying action. Created by the developers behind Left 4 Dead, it offers 4-player co-op gameplay against hordes of the undead.
Call of Duty games feature popular zombie modes that PS5 players enjoy. The latest installments provide high-octane multiplayer action with friends against increasingly difficult waves of zombies.
World War Z is another solid choice for multiplayer, featuring massive zombie hordes and class-based gameplay that encourages teamwork and strategy.
Can you list some open-world zombie games for PS5?
Days Gone offers a massive open world set in the Pacific Northwest. Players can explore on a customizable motorcycle while facing massive hordes of zombies. The dynamic weather and day-night cycle add to the immersion.
Dying Light 2 Stay Human provides an expansive city to explore with a focus on verticality and parkour. Player choices impact how the world evolves throughout the story.
State of Decay 2 gives players control over a community of survivors in an open-world setting. Resource management and base building are key components of the gameplay.
What are the latest zombie games released for PS5 in 2024 well-received?
Dead Island 2 has gained popularity for its sunny California setting that contrasts with the zombie apocalypse theme. The game features a unique combat system focused on dismemberment.
The Callisto Protocol, while technically featuring alien creatures rather than traditional zombies, offers a sci-fi horror experience that appeals to zombie game fans. Its stunning visuals showcase the PS5’s capabilities.
Evil Dead: The Game combines elements from the film franchise with asymmetrical multiplayer gameplay. Players can take on roles as survivors or demons in iconic locations from the movies.
Are there any free zombie survival games for PS5?
Fortnite occasionally features limited-time zombie modes that are completely free to play. These events bring hordes of monsters into the battle royale format.
Warzone has incorporated zombies into special modes within its free-to-play structure. These modes often tie into seasonal events and offer unique gameplay experiences.
Fall Guys has featured zombie-themed costumes and limited-time events that don’t cost anything beyond the base game, which is free to play on PS5.
What’s a must-play post-apocalyptic game on the PS5?
The Last of Us Part I and Part II are considered essential experiences for anyone interested in post-apocalyptic storytelling. Both games feature emotional narratives set against the backdrop of a fungal zombie outbreak.
Metro Exodus Enhanced Edition offers a different take on the post-apocalyptic genre with mutated creatures instead of traditional zombies. The game’s stunning visuals and immersive world are fully enhanced for PS5.
Horizon Forbidden West, while not strictly a zombie game, features a post-apocalyptic world where mechanical creatures roam a reclaimed Earth. The game’s stunning environments showcase the PS5’s graphical capabilities.
