This title is a standalone expansion, meaning it can be played without owning the original game. It continues the narrative within the established zombie-infested world, focusing on the island of Palanai in the Banoi archipelago. Players are thrust back into the zombie outbreak, facing new threats and environmental challenges as they fight for survival.

The story picks up with the survivors believing they have escaped the initial outbreak, only to find themselves in a new, equally perilous situation. The island of Palanai is overrun by the undead, and the environment itself presents new dangers, including rising water levels.

Setting and Atmosphere

The game is set on the tropical island of Palanai, offering a new environment characterized by lush jungles, abandoned settlements, and flooded areas. The atmosphere is designed to be tense and isolating, emphasizing the constant threat of the zombie horde and the struggle for survival.

Core Gameplay Mechanics

The gameplay loop combines first-person shooting with role-playing elements and melee combat. Players will engage in combat against zombies using a variety of weapons, both found and crafted. Scavenging for resources, managing inventory, and upgrading character skills are central to progression. Cooperative play for up to four players is supported, allowing survivors to tackle challenges together.

Distinctive Features

This expansion introduces several new elements to the established gameplay. Players will encounter new types of enemies that require different combat strategies. The arsenal of deadly weapons has been expanded, offering more options for dispatching the undead. A new playable character is available, adding a fresh perspective and unique abilities to the survivor group.

What are the unique gameplay additions?

A significant addition is the inclusion of dynamic weather and environmental hazards. Rising water levels can alter pathways and create new tactical challenges, forcing players to adapt their approach to exploration and combat. The game also features naval travel, allowing players to navigate the flooded landscapes and reach new areas by boat.

Gameplay Differences from the Main Game

While retaining the core mechanics of its predecessor, this expansion offers a distinct experience through its new island setting and the integration of dynamic environmental elements. The introduction of naval exploration and new enemy types provides a fresh challenge for players familiar with the original game.

Scope and Scale

This standalone expansion provides a substantial, self-contained campaign and a new area to explore, comparable in scope to the original game. It offers a complete narrative arc within the Dead Island universe.

Additional Content

A remaster of this title is available. There are no other downloadable content or expansions for this game.

Basic Information

This standalone expansion was released on April 23, 2013. It is available on Xbox 360, PC (Microsoft Windows), and PlayStation 3.