Hunger Is a Multiplayer First-Person RPG That Uses an Extraction Loop but Isn’t Defined by It

Extraction shooters are becoming increasingly common, making it essential for new titles to offer something unique to stand out. That's why I was excited to meet with developers from Good Fun Corporation to learn about their upcoming game, Hunger. This zombie-themed, first-person action-RPG powered by Unreal Engine 5 incorporates an extraction loop, setting it apart from typical extraction shooters.

The developers at Good Fun Corporation are keen to differentiate Hunger from the generic extraction shooter genre. After viewing an impressive early build, it's clear that Hunger is poised to offer a fresh take on the genre. Although the Early Access launch date remains undisclosed, the potential of Hunger is evident.

Hunger - First Screenshots

View 6 ImagesTwo aspects of Hunger immediately caught my attention: its visual aesthetic and its stunning graphics. Game director Maximilian Rea described the game's look as "Renaissance gothic," a fitting description given the mix of first-generation firearms and brutal melee weapons set within filthy, lived-in towns and majestic castles. The foliage, lighting, and texture detail are exceptional, showcasing one of the best uses of Unreal Engine 5 I've seen to date.

While I couldn't get hands-on experience yet, the game seems designed to offer a lasting experience. The team aims to blend 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 they can interact with other players and NPCs. Here, players can switch to a third-person perspective, though combat remains first-person. You can shop with Piro, a quirky shopkeeper with a unique metal mask, or manage your stash with Louis, the Stashmaster, who also offers occasional quests. Reynauld, the Expedition Master, initiates raids, revealing his past encounters with zombies through missing fingers.

The initial Early Access release will feature three maps: Jacques Bridge, Sombre Forest, and Sarlat Farm, each spanning one square kilometer and featuring a large dungeon beneath. Players can expect six weather varieties per map, with more dynamic elements planned post-release. Rea aims for 50-60 hours of content, after which players unlock the Cauldron, a new Chateau area where they can learn one of six professions: three gathering (Scavenging, Conservator, and Naturalist) and three crafting (Metallurgy, Gunsmithing, and Cooking), with the ability to have two professions at once.

The game's narrative revolves around a civil conflict sparked by The End, the bacteria causing the Hunger. Players can find and extract lore items like Missives and Maps, categorized as Common, Rare, or Legendary. Extracting a Missive allows you to read it back in the Chateau for XP, and collecting all lore pieces reveals the game's full story. The developers plan to weave the narrative through NPC dialogue as well, ensuring that every aspect of the game is infused with story.

The Hunger themselves have varied qualities and aspects, influencing gameplay. Melee combat allows for silent takedowns, while shooting attracts more Hunger. For example, the Bloater explodes into a cloud of poisonous gas, while the Shambler causes bleed damage.

With 33 weapons ranging from daggers to primitive machine guns, players can find exotic ammo that adds special damage effects. Dedicated PvP experiences are available, and a Mastery Tree with four branches—Physiology, Survival, Martial, and Cunning—ensures multiple progression paths beyond PvP. Players can enjoy solo or duo gameplay, with Rea stating that these modes offer some of the quickest ways to progress. Progression cosmetics are unlocked through leveling up and defeating bosses, available for every weapon and bag.

Hunger won't be free-to-play, avoiding pay-to-win mechanics and battle passes. A "Support the Developers" edition will include additional cosmetics, priced above the targeted $30 standard edition.

What's your plan for surviving the zombie apocalypse? -----------------------------------------------------

Take over a shopping mall (always ends well)Hide in a bunkerFind a motorcycle and keep movingGet real good at campingPaddle out in a boat and hope zombies can't swimOther - tell us in the comments

AnswerSee ResultsAn expedition might last 30-35 minutes, making *Hunger* an ideal game for quick sessions with friends. Even if players die, every action contributes to XP gains, ensuring no session feels wasted. Rea emphasized the goal of making players feel they've progressed meaningfully after an hour of play.

Although Hunger is still some time away, the team behind Hell Let Loose is crafting something unique and worth watching. Stay tuned to IGN for more updates on Hunger as development progresses.