The independent games market always offers us interesting experiences, even if it is inspired by popular titles from time to time. It is the case of Zero Sievert, a game that has just entered early access on Steam. With mechanics and challenges that are very reminiscent of Escape From Tarkov and the series STALKERCabo Studio’s work stands out for its pixelated style and difficulty in pulling your hair out.
Exploration and care
The title’s premise places the player in a post-apocalyptic world that is increasingly doomed to destruction. There is radiation in several locations, animals thirsty for their next meal and enemies ready to slaughter the first victim that crosses their paths.
Therefore, the only way to survive is to pick up a weapon and explore locations for supplies and resources. Sounds easy? Of course! The word “easy” is certainly not part of the vocabulary of Zero Sievert🇧🇷
The player must use whatever they can to protect themselves while scouring the map. Hiding in tall grass is a valid alternative, as it prevents others from noticing you, providing an opportunity for a surprise attack. Walking slowly is also important, as at the slightest sign of noise, wolves and other creatures will charge at you with everything they have.
A wrong decision can cost the character’s life, but here is relevant information: you will die a lot in the game.
cruel and addictive
Every time the player visits one of the procedurally generated maps of Zero Sievert, he needs to be prepared for any situation that arises. For this, it is necessary to choose well the equipment he wants to take with him, defining weapons and supplies to stay alive on the journey.
However, it is extremely important to pay attention to the weight of your things, because the character can only hold a certain amount in his backpack. There’s no point in wanting to fill up with as much loot as you come across, as this will interfere with walking, becoming an easy target for enemies.
When he feels satisfied, the adventurer can go to the extraction point, but of course the game won’t make it any easier. This moment creates yet another tension, as if the explorer dies before returning, almost everything he has gathered up to that point is lost with him.
This system of risk and reward turns out to be an attractive master in Zero Sievert🇧🇷 Adapting to each moment, planning the steps and eventually seeing everything come to fruition is what ends up holding the user back during the game. Remember that there is no multiplayer mode in the title. Until further notice, the work has been made for a single person to venture into each match.
retro and intense
Zero Sievert it’s not really a game where you end up. The focus here is on developing both your character and yourself in the game, learning from mistakes and defining better plans with each new visit to the maps.
The presentation is quite retro, with pixelated graphics and competent soundtrack. Furthermore, the only gameplay option is the mouse and keyboard combo, which may turn console enthusiasts away. It may be that after early access, Cabo Studio decides to add the controls I love so much, however, that may take some time.
A highlight that I need to point out are the sound effects. Every noise, whether from walking through the trees or the radiation signal, reflects the devastated world of the narrative very well. They are certainly worthy of applause.
In general, the first moments in this game can make anyone give up, but if the player insists, he will have a journey that will take dozens of hours to start to tire. And that’s pretty cool!
Zero Sievert is now available in early access for PCs via Steam. The game costs R$ 59.99.
https://tecnoblog.net/testamos/zero-sievert-e-imperdoavel-mas-e-dificil-de-largar/