Left 4 Dead demo?

[Yeti2005]

According to the EBGames website (http://www.gamestop.com/gs/landing/l4dearly/default.aspx)the Left 4 Dead demo codes were supposed to be emailed today. Has anyone received their code? The game sounds awesome but I'd like to hear people's impressions of the demo.

[Murtaug]

I received mine, two codes actually in the email, not sure if one is for some other type of content? It says nothing about the second code. I will probably throw it at my buddy who I usually coop with, if it turns out they gave two codes.

[Inspector Fowler]

I have NOT gotten mine, which is making me start to worry.

The idiots at the store didn't even ask about my e-mail. I entered mine, along with the transaction code on the receipt, at the Gamestop website. I got a "Thank you!" screen but so far no e-mail.

Why must this shit be so difficult?

[Food Nipple]

I got mine without any problems, I gave them my email when I ordered in the store.

[Inspector Fowler]

If anybody here has received one AND they had to sign up at the website, please mention that in your post.

The only reason I pre-ordered it at Gamestop was to get the early access for the demo. If Gamestop lets me down, I'll just go pull my pre-order and pick it up somewhere else on launch day.

[danielOut]

I want my damn code already, Gamestop. :P

This preorder early demo thing is being handled pretty poorly by Gamestop. I've had a lot of good experiences with their preorder stuff, but this one feels really sloppy. Store employees clueless, spotty distribution of codes, etc.
I just want to shoot some zombies. Is that too much to ask?

[Dukefrukem]

should have bought it on steam

[Inspector Fowler]

should have bought it on steam

As soon as Steam starts sending me the 360 version, sure. I'm also not convinced about Steam or PC gaming in general after my recent Far Crash 2 experiences.

[danielOut]

should have bought it on steam

Right, so instead of playing with a lot of people I know, I can instead only play with a handful. Excellent idea! (Hey, if you're gonna be a smartass, expect a smartass response. ;) )

[Inspector Fowler]

Okay, so Mr. PC Knowitall (Me) is a dumbass.

Gmail filtered out my demo code. It's my fault. If the rest of you waiting for your code are still waiting, try checking your Spam folder in your e-mail. It's worth a shot.

[Blue]

I have NOT gotten mine, which is making me start to worry.

The idiots at the store didn't even ask about my e-mail. I entered mine, along with the transaction code on the receipt, at the Gamestop website. I got a "Thank you!" screen but so far no e-mail.

Why must this shit be so difficult?

Hmmm, I may have to call them. They didn't get my email address at the counter and I wants me some L4D.

[National Kato]

I received my GameStop preorder code on Wednesday, Nov. 5th.

[Mortis]

I got my code last night and started the download this morning. Now I have to bullshit the work day away to get home and play. :( If anyone wants to play tonight add me+invite.

[Blue]

So I called and they told me to come into the store as I didn't give them my email address so I'd need to cancel the reservation and then re-reserve it. Said fine. Went in and the dude behind the counter said that I didn't have to come in at all and that I could have just clicked on the link from the website. Awesome.

Went home and did that (as he kept insisting that way would be faster despite my 20 minute drive) and am now just waiting to get my code...Sigh.

[Psykoboy2]

No code for me either. Pre-ordered last weekend, gave them my email at the time of doing that and I'm still waiting.

Went to the website last night and entered the info there and....I'm still waiting.

[Dukefrukem]

Right, so instead of playing with a lot of people I know, I can instead only play with a handful. Excellent idea! (Hey, if you're gonna be a smartass, expect a smartass response. ;) )

All I know is I just got done playing the demo and you didn't. I also know, I have no idea how this is going to work on XBL. It will be a miracle if it does.

[Psykoboy2]

I have no idea how this is going to work on XBL. It will be a miracle if it does.

Why is that exactly?

[Dukefrukem]

Why is that exactly?

Because when you create a lobby to play, it searches for dedicated servers to play on... unless you do the LAN option which almost always lags out because of the hundreds and hundreds of zombies that come flying at you. Is Valve going to be setting up free dedicated servers for xbox players?

[Psykoboy2]

Well, that's a good question. TF2 was unplayable at release on the 360 and it took them a while to patch that. We're kind of wondering about this and it'd be nice to get in the early demo so we can see for ourselves....if the fuckers would send us our code.

[Dukefrukem]

Well, that's a good question. TF2 was unplayable at release on the 360 and it took them a while to patch that. We're kind of wondering about this and it'd be nice to get in the early demo so we can see for ourselves....if the fuckers would send us our code.

Heres what I just posted in the PC section.

I just got done playing, or should say TRIED to play. There is no server browser, you can't join a server, you can only join a game lobby which will search for a free dedicated server. Of course there weren't any (which I don't think will change, who will want to buy a dedicated server where you have no control over it, and might never actually play on it). Valve needs to change that in a hurry. People are going to think this game sucks ass because they are playing on some kids 256k DSL line across the country.

[Iron Past]

Because when you create a lobby to play, it searches for dedicated servers to play on... unless you do the LAN option which almost always lags out because of the hundreds and hundreds of zombies that come flying at you. Is Valve going to be setting up free dedicated servers for xbox players?

They certainly have the option. I think MS even maintains any dedicated servers the dev companies set up.

[Dukefrukem]

They certainly have the option. I think MS even maintains any dedicated servers the dev companies set up.

Read my last post.

It won't make any sense for them to do that if PC players need to pay to get a decent game going. Right now, I don't see this game taking off like I thought it would.

[Yeti2005]

Read my last post.

It won't make any sense for them to do that if PC players need to pay to get a decent game going. Right now, I don't see this game taking off like I thought it would.

Valve already said they'd have dedicated servers for the 360 players (not sure about the PC).

[Dukefrukem]

Valve already said they'd have dedicated servers for the 360 players (not sure about the PC).

Well there are dedicated severs, but hardly enough, and you don't get to choose which to connect. You could be playing on the East Coast and connect to CA. That's no good.

[Psykoboy2]

Valve already said they'd have dedicated servers for the 360 players (not sure about the PC).

I was thinking the same thing. I remember Valve seemingly being very dedicated to making the console experience exceptionally great this time around.

[UnderHero5]

I played the demo on PC, and it was awesome.
I couldn't get into an online game, but just playing alone with the AI was great. The companion AI seems excellent in this.

Can't wait for release.

[Wolvie]

Well there are dedicated severs, but hardly enough, and you don't get to choose which to connect. You could be playing on the East Coast and connect to CA. That's no good.

So there will be enough for the console side and the PC folks will have to make due with whatever server they get? That's so... unlike Valve to stiff the PC gamers. :eek:

[Iron Past]

Well there are dedicated severs, but hardly enough, and you don't get to choose which to connect. You could be playing on the East Coast and connect to CA. That's no good.

You're also talking about a demo before a game's release. I'd imagine in the next two weeks they'll be puting more work into those.

[Dukefrukem]

You're also talking about a demo before a game's release. I'd imagine in the next two weeks they'll be puting more work into those.

This is true. If you know me, I'm highly critical of games that initially disappoint me.

[National Kato]

Wow. Okay, I just received a 2nd demo code from GameStop - and it's entirely different from the first one.

So, once I get the demo downloaded tonight and I'm able to play, I'll be giving away the 2nd code in this thread. I'll only require something mildly embarassing/tortuous to qualify. :D

[wyeast]

Well, that's a good question. TF2 was unplayable at release on the 360 and it took them a while to patch that.
This right here is the single biggest reservation I have about this title. It will be made or broken by how well the servers are implemented. TF2 is still a pile of steaming bitter fail for our group because the networking is so bad.

(edit: National Kato - would it be tortuous/embarrassing enough to hear me squeal over the headset like a little girl every time the zombies come crawling out of the walls? :D :o )

[danielOut]

I got my code and am downloading now. Woo!

[Psykoboy2]

I got my code and am downloading now. Woo!

I hate you.

[Orca]

Do you want a code, Psyko?

[Psykoboy2]

Yes, I do. But I also pre-ordered last week in order to get one. And I haven't received my code yet. Kinda frustrating.

[Orca]

It'll show!

[wyeast]

Hey, if people are just giving away extra codes, I'd like to make for zombie fodder. :D

[National Kato]

Alright, my 1st code worked and the demo is currently downloading.

Now, to give away my 2nd code to one lucky reader....

Bill Pullman is given the zombie drug and buried alive in the movie "The Serpent and The Rainbow". What is put in his casket with him?

First correct answer gets the code key!

(post your answer, don't PM please)

[Psykoboy2]

Answer: Talent

[Orca]

A tarantula - a big honking one too.

Give the key to Psykoboy, and he can put up his own when he finally gets his key.

[National Kato]

Haha! Nice. I actually liked him in Zero Effect too.

[National Kato]

Orca's answer is correct! Congrats!!

As per your wishes, I shall PM the code to Psykoboy....

[Psykoboy2]

Heyhey!!!

Thanks Kato & Orca...

[National Kato]

Alright, if Valve would release a slightly trimmed (or full, if they have the money) public network broadcast of exactly what plays in the intro?

They'll sell a ton of this game. Wow, that was exciting and I haven't even pressed Start yet.

I know there are video versions of the intro out there, but a lot of them are too dark to see detail.

[National Kato]

Okay, first impression is if this game continues to play as it has for the last couple of hours, it's going to be a strong contender for GoTY. Hands down.



Lag free thus far with 4 players (360).
Different every single time.
In turn hilarious, terrifying, impressive, amazing.


I can't wait for the full release. I've played through the demo (two checkpoints) almost five times.

I cant stress enough how good the AI 'director' is. I've been ambushed so many ways by different enemies in different areas of the multi-branch levels.

My favorite feature: from the Start menu you can select 'Take A Break' whch keeps you in the game but assigns the AI to take over. Perfect for bathroom breaks or other minor interruptions. My AI character revived, healed, and totally held his own while I was away. This should be a staple in any co-op game from now on.

[Adam Blue]

I don't think I'd pay full price for this.

What they did with the graphics and animations is great, but they stuck too much to the source engine so the player movement is quick and floaty, which in-turn requires the enemies to be fast-paced, which I don't like from my zombies.

I especially don't see the value on the console version. I'm sure with the PC version there will be many mods/maps to continue the life. I won't want to pay for only certain content on the console.

I'll rent this on the 360 and buy it on the PC when it's cheap enough.

[Inspector Fowler]

I just had a quick playthrough. My impressions are very positive. The only negative for me (I'm playing the 360 version) is that the graphics are, in general, terrible.

Aside from that, this is Dawn of the Dead (the remake, not the original) the video game. The action is fast and furious, but on the "normal" setting I definitely didn't have a hard time. The game will not make you search dark corners for hidden items and other bullshit, it tells you from about 40 feet away "PICK UP PAIN PILLS" and directs you to them.

In fact, if you spend too much time in a room trying to find every little hidden thing, the game kind of goes..."ahem"...and sends a brief flurry of zombies your way.

Also - in games, I often end up taking a very weird route to get someplace. This is because, in military games, you get rewarded for "flanking" which usually is just you taking a route the programmers didn't expect. In all other shooters, however, this screws me! I end up running up the staircase to nowhere, getting trapped in the alley of nothingness, etc. Left 4 Dead has multiple, branching paths through each level that don't screw you like this. I found myself cringing, thinking, "This is the time that I picked the wrong way, I just know it." But it never came - I was able to very easily get through the levels without any confusion.

In short, awesome. Fun and well paced. Zombies are scary at a distance, but then it gets too frantic to be scary, and you're just blasting away.

I loved it and I'll consider this $60 well spent.

[Blue]

Well I still haven't gotten my code yet. When I just called they said it may take up to 48 hours so I'm possibly looking at this weekend. While I didn't necessarily pre-order for the code, this sucks. I just keep refreshing my inbox.

[wyeast]

My favorite feature: from the Start menu you can select 'Take A Break' whch keeps you in the game but assigns the AI to take over. Perfect for bathroom breaks or other minor interruptions. My AI character revived, healed, and totally held his own while I was away. This should be a staple in any co-op game from now on.

This is beyond awesome. :)

[Psykoboy2]

Still no code for me either. I mean, Kato gave me his (by way of Orca - thank you both again), but I still don't have the code I payed for.

I called Gamestop on the way home. I swear to god that place is like the GameFAQs of game stores. I asked them if they knew what was up with people not getting their early access code and I was told, in a very matter-of-fact way, that the early access demo would start on Sunday and my code would be sent to me over the weekend.

I shit you the fuck not.

[wyeast]

Hah, what a crock. :mad:

[Inspector Fowler]

The problem with most game stores is that most people who care enough to actually be a great employee at one are also smart enough not to work at one.

I know there are exceptions, don't get me wrong. But for minimum wage plus sales spiffs, I can't imagine the average Gamestop employee cares enough to even spend one minute surfing the net for gaming news.

[National Kato]

This is beyond awesome. :)

Yeah, it's no lie I drink a bunch of beer when I play games like this and it would suck if we always had to stop, MMO-style, for the 'bio breaks.'

What was hilarious is hearing everyone congratulate me on something and then realize there was 'Idle' written above my guy. It's seamless coming back in (just pull the left trigger and it zooms you back into 1st-person mode) and, I believe, will change how future games look at co-op.

[Yeti2005]

Woohoo I just got my key. I'll be jumping online tonight. I did hear there's no Versus mode (in the demo) which is a bummer since it would be fun to play as a zombie.

[Variable Gear]

The problem with most game stores is that most people who care enough to actually be a great employee at one are also smart enough not to work at one.

I know there are exceptions, don't get me wrong. But for minimum wage plus sales spiffs, I can't imagine the average Gamestop employee cares enough to even spend one minute surfing the net for gaming news.
Make that a general "stores that have a game department" and I'd agree wholeheartedly. When I went to pick up the AC/DC Live Track Pack at Wal-Mart I had one of the worst retail experiences of my life. I stood in front of the 360 games display for what felt like forever, watching one associate stock the Wii section and another associate play the Guitar Hero: World Tour demo. After a while, I went over to the counter and convinced someone to help me out. I felt like shit as I walked to my car, but it probably didn't help that I was sick at the time. :o

[Mike Kelehan]

A friend of mine preordered, and downloaded the demo. I then recovered his account and got it from his download history. Now, we're playing it. So if you know someone with the demo, that's the way to do it.

[Blue]

Finally got my code and the game downloaded. Absolutely love it. Played through twice now and I had honestly forgotten (somehow) about the Director so I rounded one corner the second play-through guns blazing only to be met with an empty street. Walked into the shop and got swarmed out of nowhere in a very inopportune place. Awesome. The very fact that it changes with each play is enough for me. It's like playing Zombies!!! but in video game form.

If anyone wants to do some co-op with it, my tag is in my signature though I'll probably be more likely to be playing this weekend.

[Everyone vs Dinosaurs]

I made a [steam] group, that hopefully will grow quite a bit.

The idea is that through it, you will be able to find some cool, team players to play L4D with, at any time of day (eventually).


Right now, it is pretty small.



I realize that there are other groups like this, but I wanted one that focuses heavily on teamwork and communication.

[Adam Blue]

Up for grabs.

MKDT9-36BDP-KMX6M-87Q9Y-JM2BB

[Gerbs]

Up for grabs.

MKDT9-36BDP-KMX6M-87Q9Y-JM2BB

Downloading now, THANKS!!

[Disgustipated]

I have a 360 L4D demo code if anyone wants it. :)

[KamaItachi]

I have a 360 L4D demo code if anyone wants it. :)
Oh please please please!

[Disgustipated]

Oh please please please!

PM sent, enjoy your game. :cool:

[KamaItachi]

Wasn't able to find a game online last night, but I ran through the single player a few times.

So far I think it's fairly awesome, but you really wouldn't want to be picking this up for the single player. The Ai is competent, but you are stuck playing the game at their pace since if you run ahead, you're toast, an if you straggle, you're gonna get ate. You also really don't feel the same sort of commeradere as you would playing with real people. I didn't particularly feel like I was saving anybody when taking out a horde chewing on another character.

It seems like they've actually done a bit more optimisation on making it playable on the 360 this time, and feels a lot more playable with a controller than the Orange Box did.

The real test will be to see how this runs online with 4 players, so hopefully I'll have more to report on the positive side soon.

[Wolvie]

Crap! I went to Gamestop to have them print out a new receipt so I could get the early access code... only to find out that the offer has EXPIRED! NOOOOOOO!!!

Damnit all to hell!

Oh woe is me. My life is such bitter tragedy.

[Bingley Joe]

Sorry if this has been answered somewhere in here, but does this thing have any form of offline co-op?

It sounds like the bots make for a pretty solid SP experience already, but this one might actually get my GF into shooters if it does.

Then again, it might also be the straw that got my camel ass to just re-up on Live!..

[KamaItachi]

Sorry if this has been answered somewhere in here, but does this thing have any form of offline co-op?

It sounds like the bots make for a pretty solid SP experience already, but this one might actually get my GF into shooters if it does.

Then again, it might also be the straw that got my camel ass to just re-up on Live!..

Split screen 2 player on one system.

Sorry, just an update.

It seems pretty apparent, even from the very short time I've spent with the demo, that this is first and foremost a multiplayer game. The split screen may suffice for local if you don't have gold, but I really don't see the single player experience offering anything that'll last, decent AI or no.

[RandoM51]

After playing the demo I'm kind of sorry I preordered. This game is definitely going to have replayability issues: issues that tf2 does not. I'm hoping Versus mode adds an entirely new/entertaining level of complexity for us.

[Nura]

After playing the demo I'm kind of sorry I preordered. This game is definitely going to have replayability issues: issues that tf2 does not. I'm hoping Versus mode adds an entirely new/entertaining level of complexity for us.

Me too, don't get me wrong, i enjoy killing zombies as much as the next fellow, but i could settle for a zombie-slaying mod instead of this :/

[Inspector Fowler]

Is this the console forum or the PC forum, guys? Your talk of "mods" is confusing me! Also your talk of TF2 as a viable game seems bizarre - I thought nobody played that on 360 anymore! ;)

I won't have any problem replaying this any more than I did playing the same CSS, BF2, and CoD4 maps thousands of times. A buddy came over last night and we went through the two demo levels over and over. Every re-play was marginally different, just like every round of any other online FPS is marginally different.

It's a different feel, yes. But I actually enjoy co-op stuff a lot, while I know that many people prefer adversarial play. With 20 "maps" to pick from I think I won't have a problem with playing this game a lot.

[Everyone vs Dinosaurs]

After playing the demo I'm kind of sorry I preordered. This game is definitely going to have replayability issues: issues that tf2 does not. I'm hoping Versus mode adds an entirely new/entertaining level of complexity for us.

At first, I had the same feelings as you do now. It felt like it would just get old if I wanted to play it through more than one time. My feelings, however, changed when I got to play a round where everyone had a microphone, and it was on the top-most difficulty. We were getting eaten alive, and it took a great deal of strategy to beat the two levels. It then took a good deal of strategy, to beat them again. It was a completely different experience either time. One of the times, a tank came and absolutely destroyed us, whereas the next time, I accidentally woke up a witch that then pounded me into an oblivion.

I see myself playing through the entire campaign multiple times. And then there is versus mode.

[Sense Field]

Does anyone have an extra code for the demo?

[Bingley Joe]

Split screen 2 player on one system.

Sorry, just an update.

It seems pretty apparent, even from the very short time I've spent with the demo, that this is first and foremost a multiplayer game. The split screen may suffice for local if you don't have gold, but I really don't see the single player experience offering anything that'll last, decent AI or no.


Ok, cool -- thanks. Can't wait to get my hands on the demo now..

[Yeti2005]

At first, I had the same feelings as you do now. It felt like it would just get old if I wanted to play it through more than one time. My feelings, however, changed when I got to play a round where everyone had a microphone, and it was on the top-most difficulty. We were getting eaten alive, and it took a great deal of strategy to beat the two levels. It then took a good deal of strategy, to beat them again. It was a completely different experience either time. One of the times, a tank came and absolutely destroyed us, whereas the next time, I accidentally woke up a witch that then pounded me into an oblivion.

I see myself playing through the entire campaign multiple times. And then there is versus mode.

I agree, the game changes a lot when you have all human players (the survivor AI helps almost too much). Also normal is too easy so you're not getting the full experience unless you jack up the difficulty. When the difficulty is higher, you get more "Oh shit" moments which are fun to share with a group of friends.

[Everyone vs Dinosaurs]

When the difficulty is higher, you get more "Oh shit" moments which are fun to share with a group of friends.


Yea, my main point exactly. :)

[CES]

Has anyone worked out just how much firepower you need to use to kill a Tank? Every single time i've fought one (both with the AI and with people), the 4 of us all firing at it could not bring it down.

Also, The Director sucks so much sometimes, like when he puts a Witch right where you have to walk past. On Expert.

[Dukefrukem]

After playing the demo I'm kind of sorry I preordered. This game is definitely going to have replayability issues: issues that tf2 does not. I'm hoping Versus mode adds an entirely new/entertaining level of complexity for us.

They're entirely different games. But Yes, TF2 has the better appeal because 1, it;s a cheaper game, 2, it's multiplayer only, and 3 they update each class once every 3-4, months.

[Telefrog]

They're entirely different games. But Yes, TF2 has the better appeal because 1, it;s a cheaper game, 2, it's multiplayer only, and 3 they update each class once every 3-4, months.

It's weird. I like TF2. I appreciate the updates - on PC. Yet, for whatever reason, L4D really grabs me in a way TF2 does not. TF2 just feels like an artificial "game" for lack of a better word. It's a set of clones, fighting in distinct arenas, over arbitrary goals.

L4D just feels more visceral.

[Elrik Murder]

Does anyone have an extra code for the demo?

What Sense Field said? Anybody? :D:):o:(

[wyeast]

Doesn't the demo go public in the next couple of days, anyway? (I forget when)

[Psykoboy2]

Tomorrow, actually.

[wyeast]

Excellent. Assuming my box holds up, I'll warm up the "Little Girl" Screaming routine. :D

[Elrik Murder]

Doesn't the demo go public in the next couple of days, anyway? (I forget when)

Obviously, I wasn't aware of the fact. If that's the case, see you suckers online! :D

Thanks for that by the way. Can't wait!

[skwish]

any idea what time it goes live?

[noir]

It's up for Steam and XBLM Today!

[rinichanraar]

any idea what time it goes live?

I was trying to figure this out last night, but I got nothing. Probably some time this evening, but WHEN?!

[Psykoboy2]

Should be live right now.

[pomeroy]

It's so good.

And I only played the single player with bots. Can't wait to play with some real folk.

[rinichanraar]

Should be live right now.
It's so good.

And I only played the single player with bots. Can't wait to play with some real folk.

Oh! Awesome. Will download ASAP!

[wyeast]

It was an hour late, I think. Went live around 8 this morning. :)

[yeti]

Loved it, can't wait for the full game next week. If anyone wants to add me for some future Zombocolypse action my gamertag is yetixx.

[Sonic Alpha]

Should be live right now.

It is (http://majornelson.com/archive/2008/11/11/demo-left-4-dead.aspx) :)

(Grrr... too short)

[diablopath]

I just sunk about 4 hours into this.

Game is crazy awesome.
Too easy on normal.
A challenge on experienced.
FUCKING CRAZY ON EXPERT.

I am so excited for the 18th to play the entire game.
We had so much fun.

[Blue]

I think after playing it many times I'm a little unsure on it. I'm not sure it's going to give me $60 of value out of it right away and while I like it just fine I know I'm not going to have the people to play with. Even on the different modes and with it changing up every session, it still began to feel pretty darn repetitive after a bit.

[Ondo]

I'm hoping to play with people tomorrow - anyone who wants to add me, feel free. My gamertag is in my sig.

[TheSilentDeath]

Ok, I guess I will be downloading this tonight when I get home since I haven't been home since 10 this morning. Hopefully it doesn't make me motion sick.

Also before anyone asks Valve games have a tendency to make me motion sick. Weird I know, but it happens.

[Purple Santa]

I was trying to figure this out last night, but I got nothing. Probably some time this evening, but WHEN?!

I kept wondering when this was going to hit public beta..then I saw you last night on XBL, and there it stated you were playing...I almost downloaded it then but my Spigot Flu told me otherwise. I really want to try this...

[Krispy]

The game plays just like it looked in gameplay videos: mediocre. It looks and feels like a Half Life 2 mod, which it is, but it just lacks a defining quality that many other retail games using the Steam engine have. The gameplay is just so bland and if you go at a good pace you can end a level in less than five minutes, even on a harder difficulty. I think the nail in the coffin was how linear the game is. They try to trick you into thinking it'll be a new experience every time by spawning enemies in different places in different numbers and spawning different weapons in different locations but after a few play throughs you quickly realize even these have a predetermined amount of different areas so you just learn to check them all. It gets pretty predictable, believe me. It is too bad there is only ever one way to get to the end. I mean sure, there are parallel tunnels or doors or what have you, but let's not kid ourselves. It isn't any kind of freedom.

Edit: After reading back through the thread it seems I have a most unpopular opinion. I suppose it doesn't help that I think Horde mode on Gears of War 2 is a superior coop experience. :o

[Schnoogs]

I thought the demo was pretty slick...Valve does it again

[Telefrog]

I have L4D preordered on Steam already and have been enjoying the demo there for the past couple of days. I downloaded this on the 360 last night just to check out the differences.

It looks like the 360 version is graphically locked on the equivalent of the Med/High settings for the PC which still looks very good. The only weakness was the lack of AA. It's pretty jaggy, but not so bad that I couldn't ignore the stepping on the edges.

The only real complaint I had was the framerate dropped really badly in the subway when the AI was spawning a Tank nearby while a swarm of Infected was hitting my team. The zombie horde was flooding into the subway car, we were shooting at them and panicking, the "boom boom boom" of the Tank stomping around started, and then the fps dropped to 10-20 for a good couple of seconds. Not a huge snafu, but a discouraging hiccup anyway.

Other then that quibble, it looked pretty solid compared to the PC version. I do wonder why the PC version has a different menu screen from the console's bird's eye street overview title screen.

[johnperkins21]

Edit: After reading back through the thread it seems I have a most unpopular opinion. I suppose it doesn't help that I think Horde mode on Gears of War 2 is a superior coop experience. :o

You've got a supporter here. I thought the game sucked pretty hard. Granted, I'm not interested in multiplayer, so I wasn't expecting too much. But I've always got high hopes for Valve games, and that opening cinematic got me pumped. Then the game started and I realized I was playing an FPS version of Geometry Wars with zombies. I'm just firing bullets everywhere as enemies spawn all around me. Then I look for more ammo and guns and repeat the process.

I can see where some people would enjoy the experience, especially if you're into multiplayer, but it just wasn't for me at all. Luckily I've got Fallout 3, Fable 2, and Dead Space to help get me through the holiday season.

[Schnoogs]

You've got a supporter here. I thought the game sucked pretty hard. Granted, I'm not interested in multiplayer, so I wasn't expecting too much. But I've always got high hopes for Valve games, and that opening cinematic got me pumped. Then the game started and I realized I was playing an FPS version of Geometry Wars with zombies. I'm just firing bullets everywhere as enemies spawn all around me. Then I look for more ammo and guns and repeat the process.

I can see where some people would enjoy the experience, especially if you're into multiplayer, but it just wasn't for me at all. Luckily I've got Fallout 3, Fable 2, and Dead Space to help get me through the holiday season.

Wow...that's quite the over simplification of the gameplay! :p

[wyeast]

Oversimplified, but not that far off at times. :p

[Telefrog]

News: All FPS games can be boiled down to "shoot enemies".

[Schnoogs]

News: All FPS games can be boiled down to "shoot enemies".

Exactly...any game from any genre can be reduced to some trite description.

[johnperkins21]

Wow...that's quite the over simplification of the gameplay! :p

Not really. It felt extremely similar to Geometry Wars to me. Spawn more enemies than you think you can handle; spray bullets wildly across the screen until they're gone; wash, rinse, repeat.

Most games can be broken down into similarly simple terms, so it's a little unfair to single out this game. But the gameplay just feels too much like other games that I don't really like (the aforementioned Geometry Wars and Smash TV being the two that immediately spring to mind) only in an FPS setting.

[Schnoogs]

Not really. It felt extremely similar to Geometry Wars to me. Spawn more enemies than you think you can handle; spray bullets wildly across the screen until they're gone; wash, rinse, repeat.

Most games can be broken down into similarly simple terms, so it's a little unfair to single out this game. But the gameplay just feels too much like other games that I don't really like (the aforementioned Geometry Wars and Smash TV being the two that immediately spring to mind) only in an FPS setting.

Geometry wars is the last game that comes to mind but perhaps you played while shrooming or something :p

[Blue]

Not really. It felt extremely similar to Geometry Wars to me. Spawn more enemies than you think you can handle; spray bullets wildly across the screen until they're gone; wash, rinse, repeat.

Most games can be broken down into similarly simple terms, so it's a little unfair to single out this game. But the gameplay just feels too much like other games that I don't really like (the aforementioned Geometry Wars and Smash TV being the two that immediately spring to mind) only in an FPS setting.

While I did say that I'm a little "meh" with L4D, a FPS version of Smash TV would always be welcome. Complete carnage with a zombie skin for the win.

[Krispy]

I see where you are coming from. Enemies die in a couple of hits, there is no dismemberment or any other tactical firing (exploding heads don't count although they are satisfying :) ), ammo is plentiful and so are the enemies. What makes it any interesting to play are the "boss" zombies which do throw some unique elements into the mix, but other than that you have what amounts to a lot of target practice. And I know you can boil any FPS down to that but it just feels blatant in this title like that is the emphasis.

[Primus]

I see where you are coming from. Enemies die in a couple of hits, there is no dismemberment or any other tactical firing (exploding heads don't count although they are satisfying :) ), ammo is plentiful and so are the enemies. What makes it any interesting to play are the "boss" zombies which do throw some unique elements into the mix, but other than that you have what amounts to a lot of target practice. And I know you can boil any FPS down to that but it just feels blatant in this title like that is the emphasis.

I would have to agree too. Most of the game is just frantically firing in the general direction of a mass of zombies. I was actually disappointed in the game for the first few minutes, until the boss zombies started popping up. I never really felt challenged, or felt I needed to conserve ammo. I was constantly shooting/ getting shot by my friends, and it really didn't seem to matter, nor seem all that avoidable. Tactical it is not, as the game is much too frantic.

That said the game is still fun, it was pretty intense getting pulled away behind your teamates and have to scream into your mic to get someone to save you! As I said the boss zombies are the bread and butter of this game, and I am interested to see what human player come up with playing as them.

Judging from the demo I would give the game a B+, its really just a few short bursts of frantic shooting and then silence, repeat. It is not like Halo or Gears of War where you get pinned somewhere and have to quickly come up with a viable plan of attack to conserve ammo and watch your health.

[National Kato]

Enemies die in a couple of hits, there is no dismemberment or any other tactical firing (exploding heads don't count although they are satisfying :) ), ammo is plentiful and so are the enemies.

I've experienced dismemberment several times. I'm not sure how or why, but I distinctly remember commenting in-game on a zombie we'd just shot having lost her left leg, which we found further down the hallway.

[Psykoboy2]

Interesting scenerios last night while playing:

First time around we set off the car alarm and dealt with the swarm. I ran ahead and was the first in the safehouse. I shut the door on Bap and the others, just for fun, fucked myself over because a hunter was IN the safehouse.

Second time around we bypassed setting off the car alarm and had it pretty easy. I ran down the stairs and rounded the corner into the safehouse....getting puked on by a boomer.

I love how random it is.

[wyeast]

Yes, ultimately FPS's can be boiled down to "Shoot everybody". But to go one step up - some games give you some means of thinking your way past a section. Flank the opponent, laying down cover fire, or charging into their faces.

Here, with zombies being everywhere you don't really present yourself with those options. Get mobbed, shoot your way out. Run, repeat. The only time you start considering alternate tactics is when you're trying to avoid startling the witch or preparing for the various finale scenes. But the director is pretty good about finding a weakness in your plan by throwing a horde at you from behind or above or out of a kitchen cupboard. ;)

Granted, this is a zombie movie, and not Marine Corps Combat Simulator 2.0. Just shedding some light on what I think was meant by the geometry wars comparison.

It's still fun, just a different kind of fun.

[crazyD]

I think there is definitely some strategy involved, especially on harder modes. You need to keep the other players on their feet and fighting, you CAN run out of ammo, and FF fucking hurts, so you need to be constantly aware of where everyone is to avoid shooting them.

[johnperkins21]

I think there is definitely some strategy involved, especially on harder modes. You need to keep the other players on their feet and fighting, you CAN run out of ammo, and FF fucking hurts, so you need to be constantly aware of where everyone is to avoid shooting them.

There's strategy in Geometry Wars as well, as is evidenced by the insane amount of points at the top of the leaderboards. However, much of this strategy comes into play during co-op. You definitely need to work with your team, but in single player, the AI pretty much handles everything. No need to call out to your teammates when you're getting trounced, the AI automatically runs to your aid.

I still think Geometry Wars is a great analog to this game because the main obstacle is the sheer number of enemies thrown at you in all directions. In many FPS games you're walking down a corridor and usually only confront enemies that are in front of you, and usually in small groups. Here they're spawning all around you, in large numbers, which could either add to the tension if you like that sort of thing, or just annoy the hell out of you if you're not into it.

[Schnoogs]

Still pushing the Geometry Wars angle?

I guess the two are similar...they both are completely kick ass.

[Karak]

Not really. It felt extremely similar to Geometry Wars to me. Spawn more enemies than you think you can handle; spray bullets wildly across the screen until they're gone; wash, rinse, repeat.

Most games can be broken down into similarly simple terms, so it's a little unfair to single out this game. But the gameplay just feels too much like other games that I don't really like (the aforementioned Geometry Wars and Smash TV being the two that immediately spring to mind) only in an FPS setting.
You are exactly right. I liked it but your description is right on. GW has some strat but most of the time its pure grit and ability. Good description.

[Krispy]

I think there is definitely some strategy involved, especially on harder modes. You need to keep the other players on their feet and fighting, you CAN run out of ammo, and FF fucking hurts, so you need to be constantly aware of where everyone is to avoid shooting them.

Actually, you have infinite pistol ammo.

[Lon Lon Rabbit]

Most of the complaints here can be completely solved by upping the difficulty level.

Normal really is easy mode, and advanced is not that hard either. It is impossible to run through the level on advanced or expert.

If you don't like co-op/multiplayer games, you probably shouldn't bother with this game as it was built that way from the ground up.

What the game tries to do, it does brilliantly.

[wyeast]

Oh believe me, we weren't running last night. Well, ok. Just once, because I was trying to get the group to hurry up past the witch before they threw us another boomer by her. :eek: :D

But you can't really loiter, either. And god forbid you try to backtrack to take another route. The director seems to punish you for your insolence. ;)

[Subversion]

Initially I wasn't very impressed with the demo but after playing a bit and gaining a better understanding of the game mechanics, I started to really enjoy it. I can't wait for the full game. We need more co-op games!

It should be awesome to have human players as the hunters on the zombie side. I really think that will change a lot of the strategy in the game and allow for a more dynamic play experience. It's hard to judge the game right now since you can only play survivors.

[crazyD]

There's strategy in Geometry Wars as well, as is evidenced by the insane amount of points at the top of the leaderboards. However, much of this strategy comes into play during co-op. You definitely need to work with your team, but in single player, the AI pretty much handles everything. No need to call out to your teammates when you're getting trounced, the AI automatically runs to your aid.

I still think Geometry Wars is a great analog to this game because the main obstacle is the sheer number of enemies thrown at you in all directions. In many FPS games you're walking down a corridor and usually only confront enemies that are in front of you, and usually in small groups. Here they're spawning all around you, in large numbers, which could either add to the tension if you like that sort of thing, or just annoy the hell out of you if you're not into it.

Let me get this straight - You are complaining about the single player portion of a game that was built ground up to be played co-op? Well, your discussion holds no weight then, and I will stop trying to refute it.

Actually, you have infinite pistol ammo.

Yes, infinite ammo for a weapon with a small clip, long reload, and no real stopping power. The pistol is good for taking out guys from a distance, but if a horde is rushing you on expert, you need a gun with limited ammo.

[Krispy]

Yes, infinite ammo for a weapon with a small clip, long reload, and no real stopping power. The pistol is good for taking out guys from a distance, but if a horde is rushing you on expert, you need a gun with limited ammo.

Well sure, but if you use the dual pistols for taking out the regular spawns and then save your alternate gun for the rush spawns there should never be a problem. At least there was never with my group with these tactics. Also, stopping power is a joke. None of the guns stun enemies, they just die. Unless you mean against a tank.

I think I'll give the full game a "GameStop rental" after a few are traded in. I have a feeling the first two levels may just be subpar and that human controlled boss mobs should at least make it more challenging. Also, don't bother sneak past the Witch. Just pipe bomb her.

[Telefrog]

I think I'll give the full game a "GameStop rental" after a few are traded in. I have a feeling the first two levels may just be subpar and that human controlled boss mobs should at least make it more challenging. Also, don't bother sneak past the Witch. Just pipe bomb her.

Well, the second level in the demo is definitely "subpar" since it's only half as long as the real level. In fact, on the PC version you can noclip through the final room to see the rest of the level.

[Lon Lon Rabbit]

Oh believe me, we weren't running last night. Well, ok. Just once, because I was trying to get the group to hurry up past the witch before they threw us another boomer by her. :eek: :D

But you can't really loiter, either. And god forbid you try to backtrack to take another route. The director seems to punish you for your insolence. ;)

Sorry, I was actually meaning to refer to Krispy's comments about just being able to run through a level in 5 minutes, which is really not possible, even the first really really short level (maybe if you skip the apartment by jumping off the roof) on expert. Should have quoted him, as you're right, loitering is a bad idea.

Well sure, but if you use the dual pistols for taking out the regular spawns and then save your alternate gun for the rush spawns there should never be a problem. At least there was never with my group with these tactics. Also, stopping power is a joke. None of the guns stun enemies, they just die. Unless you mean against a tank.

I think I'll give the full game a "GameStop rental" after a few are traded in. I have a feeling the first two levels may just be subpar and that human controlled boss mobs should at least make it more challenging. Also, don't bother sneak past the Witch. Just pipe bomb her.

It really really sounds like you need to play on a higher difficulty. We finished normal on our first ever try of the game without losing a single person, and we finished advanced on the first try with only one death I think. I can see how you could find the game a bit too simple and kinda boring on that setting, this is one game where upping the difficulty doesn't just add a bit of frustration but really adds a lot of different elements and dynamics.

You WILL run out of ammo against the bigger rushes even if your pistols and primary are fully loaded as it starts.

There also is stopping power, as not all shots will kill enemies.

Try shotgunning a zombie at medium/long range or with the crosshair only half on them, for instance, and they'll stagger.

Pipe bombing a witch helps, but again, on expert there is no way that's enough to down her and there's still a good chance she'll kill a group member before you finish her off.

[Krispy]

Well, I think you have convinced me to try it a bit more. I only played Expert once through each level (after trying the other difficulties a lot more) and I may have just gotten lucky spawns. It is also good to know that the levels are longer than the demo indicates, otherwise it seems like there just wouldn't be a whole lot of area to play through.

[Norse]

After trying the demo I'm not sold on this game. I only played single player so that could explain my disappointment. The game felt very simple and the graphics looked really outdated to me.

I'll have to give it another shot if I find anyone who would play co-op with me.

[Lon Lon Rabbit]

Well, I think you have convinced me to try it a bit more. I only played Expert once through each level (after trying the other difficulties a lot more) and I may have just gotten lucky spawns. It is also good to know that the levels are longer than the demo indicates, otherwise it seems like there just wouldn't be a whole lot of area to play through.

What are you playing on, by the way, out of curiosity? 360 or PC?

Also, one time we voted to change the difficulty from advanced to expert and restart the campaign, and we BREEZED through it and were so proud of ourselves, then realised it never changed the difficulty despite the vote succeeding.

And yeah, cos of the director the difficulty can really change.

The first map can be really easy if you get no zeds around the alarmed car, for instance, as that's a really open area where zed reinforcements can come from absolutely all around you if you get into a long firefight.

Similarly, the spot immediately at the start of the subway can be a real bitch, especially when you get a rush piling out from the ceiling, immediately followed by a smoker, then a hunter, then a boomer who vomits on you causing another huge rush... It varies a lot.

[crazyD]

After trying the demo I'm not sold on this game. I only played single player so that could explain my disappointment. The game felt very simple to me and the graphics looked really outdated to me.

I'll have to give it another shot if I find anyone who would play co-op with me.

I've just been pubbing, and I'm having a great time. I'm really looking forward to playing the demo at a LAN party on Saturday, sucks that the release is 3 days after, though.

[Krispy]

I have been playing the 360 version but this seems like the kind of game that would benefit a lot from user mods. A lot of my complaints I think stem from a feeling of simplicity and modders can get pretty creative :).

[johnperkins21]

Let me get this straight - You are complaining about the single player portion of a game that was built ground up to be played co-op? Well, your discussion holds no weight then, and I will stop trying to refute it.

It's a viable critique. Sure it's intended for multiplayer, but it does include a single player mode. Just as it's viable to critique Fable 2's horrible co-op feature even though it was designed from the ground up as a single player game. If it's in there, it's up for critique.

And it also doesn't invalidate my feelings towards the core gameplay of just spraying bullets across the screen at a swarm of oncoming enemies. I'm missing out on some of the team strategy in the single player game, but it still just feels like I'm playing as a turret that moves.

[crazyD]

It's a viable critique. Sure it's intended for multiplayer, but it does include a single player mode. Just as it's viable to critique Fable 2's horrible co-op feature even though it was designed from the ground up as a single player game. If it's in there, it's up for critique.

And it also doesn't invalidate my feelings towards the core gameplay of just spraying bullets across the screen at a swarm of oncoming enemies. I'm missing out on some of the team strategy in the single player game, but it still just feels like I'm playing as a turret that moves.

The core gameplay changes when you are dealing with real people. This is like writing CS:S off after playing a couple of rounds with bots. Sure, you can critique the game play in the single player mode, but writing off the entire game without even trying what the game was designed around is just plain stupid, and means I can justify not arguing your points that do not apply when playing the game how it was meant to be played.

[Kelegacy]

I downloaded the demo on Live tonight and I'm glad I didn't preorder. I was really excited for this game for months, but that demo made me realize this might not be the game for me. At least not at this time. I wasn't impressed.

And I have to agree: the 360 graphics aren't very good. But I supposed that's necessary for the amount of enemies on screen at once.

[crazyD]

I downloaded the demo on Live tonight and I'm glad I didn't preorder. I was really excited for this game for months, but that demo made me realize this might not be the game for me. At least not at this time. I wasn't impressed.

And I have to agree: the 360 graphics aren't very good. But I supposed that's necessary for the amount of enemies on screen at once.

PC. That is all I have to say. If you have a computer powerful enough to run a modern web browser to type that response, it will probably run this game.

[jacob.armitage]

i've enjoyed my time so much with it, i'm surprised people are a bit down on it.

infact, i'm going to go play it right now. if anyone wants to join in, just send me a msg on steam! i have yet to finish expert (damn close though) so if your up for a challenge, let me know.

[pomeroy]

i've enjoyed my time so much with it, i'm surprised people are a bit down on it.

Same here. I don't really know what people were expecting with it.

[Karak]

It's a viable critique. Sure it's intended for multiplayer, but it does include a single player mode. Just as it's viable to critique Fable 2's horrible co-op feature even though it was designed from the ground up as a single player game. If it's in there, it's up for critique.

And it also doesn't invalidate my feelings towards the core gameplay of just spraying bullets across the screen at a swarm of oncoming enemies. I'm missing out on some of the team strategy in the single player game, but it still just feels like I'm playing as a turret that moves.

Your right don't worry about it. I happen to think its pretty cool, though ugly. But your totally right on. It does have a single player and it does allow you to play so it is VERY open to judgement. If people are threatened by that don't worry *shrugs*. Just move on and enjoy something else that you enjoy.

[divinechaos]

I thought I wanted this game but after the demo I can safely say that I'll get it sometime next year. The co-op was fun but after playing Far Cry 2 for hours this game kinda hurts me eyes.

[Karak]

I thought I wanted this game but after the demo I can safely say that I'll get it sometime next year. The co-op was fun but after playing Far Cry 2 for hours this game kinda hurts me eyes.

FC2 is an amazing brown simulator:) I love the game but the many shades of brown hurt my wee eyes. But its a damn good game.

[divinechaos]

I'm not saying that the graphics suck or anything. It's just that when I first looked at the game I was like "Why doesn't this look as good as Far Cry?" Then I saw the number of zombies on screen and I decided to not be so judgemental. It was fun, I just know that I can wait till the price drops.

[jacob.armitage]

FC2 is an amazing brown simulator:) I love the game but the many shades of brown hurt my wee eyes. But its a damn good game.

too many random dudes in random jeeps. drives me mad sometimes.

i can see the complaints about just shooting at enemies swarming you, but it warms my heart with fondness of doom and serious sam in all the best ways, it just feels like an evolution of that formula. and there is nothing wrong with that.

and just think of how cool the forest level will be! i mean come one!

[Wolvie]

Well I finally got to play the demo, and made the stupid mistake of playing single player. Single player sucks ass, since it's boring with the no nonsense run-from-point-A-to-point-B AI team mates.

Co-op on the other hand? I just brilliant. I can't even find the words to describe how awesome it is. All I know is that I've played the same two maps over and over with random people and I'm not sick of them.
As a matter of fact, I'm having a compulsion to play more now. I can't even imagine how addictive the full game will be.

[neutralism]

I can't wait to get my copy of this! The possibilities for some real quality griefing seem endless... :)

[c0m3d14n]

i've enjoyed my time so much with it, i'm surprised people are a bit down on it.


i played a few rounds, and it just didnt click with me... i cant pinpoint why
i dont think it looks ugly, the controls are done well and the gameplay is alright
but somehow it doesnt bind me like tf2 did, also i enjoy the lbp lvl editor too much atm ;), no time to play l4d

[Nerdious]

Continental0, Veregon, me and my buddy Kiwi were battling through last night. Tons of fun, the odds turned in our favor when we selectively started putting down team mates. Sorry Greg!

[Schnoogs]

FC2 is an amazing brown simulator:) I love the game but the many shades of brown hurt my wee eyes. But its a damn good game.

Africa...it's brown.