An Xbox executive has provided the first substantive update on State of Decay 3 in years, confirming the zombie survival sequel is in active development and playable internally. According to a report from Pure Xbox, the executive stated they have “sat and played the game with the team a bunch of times,” marking a shift from years of silence following the game’s 2020 cinematic reveal.
What the Executive Said
The unnamed Xbox executive described the project’s progress positively: “It’s coming on really well. We’re very excited about the franchise and its potential.” They also indicated fans will “certainly see a lot more of it in the coming year,” suggesting a potential re-reveal at a major gaming showcase.
The comments represent the first confirmation that State of Decay 3 is hitting internal milestones at developer Undead Labs and remains an active priority for Xbox Game Studios.
What We Know About the Game
Details on State of Decay 3 remain limited. The game was announced via cinematic trailer in 2020, which set a darker, more isolated tone than previous entries in the franchise. The announcement trailer hinted at infected wildlife and a harsh, snowy environment.
The State of Decay series focuses on community building, resource management, and survival in zombie-infested environments. Unlike many zombie games that center on individual protagonists, the franchise emphasizes group dynamics and collective survival.
Confirmed details:
- Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, PC
- Day One availability: Xbox Game Pass
- Release date: Not announced
- Price: Not announced
Development Context
State of Decay 3 was revealed over four years ago, leading to extended silence that concerned fans about the project’s status. The executive’s comments confirm the game is not only still in development but has progressed to a playable state that internal teams are testing.
The confirmation comes after prolonged quiet periods for other Xbox titles, creating cautious optimism among fans who have been waiting for concrete updates.
Community Reaction
Fan response to the news mixes excitement with skepticism. Long-time State of Decay 2 players expressed enthusiasm, with some noting they spent hundreds of hours in the previous game. However, others drew comparisons to other Xbox titles with extended development cycles, such as Everwild, expressing concerns about potential delays or cancellations.
The prevailing sentiment appears to be hopeful anticipation tempered by a “we’ll believe it when we see it” attitude — reflecting both genuine interest in the franchise and wariness born from years without substantial updates.
What Happens Next
Based on the executive’s comment about showing “a lot more of it in the coming year,” fans can likely expect a more detailed reveal at major gaming showcases. Summer and winter gaming events typically serve as venues for Xbox Game Studios to showcase upcoming titles.
The next update will likely include gameplay footage, release window information, and details about how Undead Labs has evolved the franchise’s core survival mechanics for the new generation of consoles.
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