Dying Light is widely praised as a thrilling open-world zombie survival game that masterfully blends parkour mechanics with intense melee combat. Players step into the role of Kyle Crane, an undercover agent navigating the quarantined city of Harran, where the dynamic day-night cycle significantly impacts gameplay tension. The fluid parkour system allows for immersive exploration and escape, while brutal and weighty combat keeps encounters engaging. The game world is richly detailed, with atmospheric environmental storytelling and a variety of weapons and crafting options enhancing survival strategies.
While the story is generally seen as serviceable but somewhat predictable, and some voice acting is mixed, these narrative shortcomings are overshadowed by the game's core gameplay strengths. The game remains enjoyable even years after release, with ongoing updates and DLCs adding value. Co-op play and replayability are also highly valued, making Dying Light a standout in the zombie survival genre.
Players especially praise the fluid parkour mechanics that make traversal across the open world exhilarating and natural. The dynamic day-night cycle adds a compelling survival horror element, with more dangerous enemies appearing at night.
The combat system is noted for its visceral, weighty feel and creative weapon crafting, enhancing the tension and satisfaction of close-quarters fights. Graphically, the game is still considered impressive and atmospheric despite its age, contributing to an immersive post-apocalyptic setting. The storyline, while not groundbreaking, is engaging enough to keep players invested, particularly the relationships between characters.
Common criticisms focus on the storyline, which some players find formulaic and less compelling compared to other aspects of the game. The voice acting receives mixed reviews, with some characters feeling flat or clichéd.
Additionally, some players mention repetitive mission design and occasional grind, which can detract from the overall experience. A few note minor bugs and occasional technical issues, though these are generally not game-breaking. Some find the movement system's 'auto-magnetizing' to ledges somewhat annoying, and a small subset experience motion sickness due to the game's visuals and camera movement.
First-person action survival game set in a post-apocalyptic open world overrun by flesh-hungry zombies. Roam a city devastated by a mysterious virus epidemic. Scavenge for supplies, craft weapons, and face hordes of the infected.