Attack of the Paper Zombies !!!

Pros

• Creative hand-drawn graphics with a unique style
• Engaging RTS gameplay requiring strategic thinking
• Wide variety of weapons and defensive options
• Detailed tutorials that thoroughly prepare players

Cons

• Special abilities have a challenging learning curve
• Scrolling method may cause unintended shifts in view
• Sound effects are adequate but unremarkable

Strategic Combat Meets Paper Craft Aesthetics

Attack of the Paper Zombies !!! is an indie real-time strategy (RTS) game that challenges players with the task of leading a group of marines against relentless hordes of alien zombies. The game's distinct hand-drawn, top-down visuals immediately set it apart, providing a whimsical yet surprisingly intense gaming experience.

Gameplay and Structure

The game is ingeniously split into three main segments: tutorials, missions, and random maps. This structure affords players the opportunity to ease into the game mechanics through tutorials, apply their learning in structured missions, and then test their adaptability in unpredictable random map scenarios.

The tutorial section is indispensable, as it expertly guides players through the nuances of combat tactics and the usage of special abilities. Mastery of these elements is crucial because the simplistic facade of the game belies a surprisingly deep strategy core.

Combat and Control

Control of spawn points is the linchpin of success in Attack of the Paper Zombies !!!. Players must navigate their squad to neutralize these spawn points by first cutting down waves of zombies and then directly assailing the spawn centers themselves.

The arsenal provided for such a task is varied and requires thoughtful engagement. Players can select from rifles, snipers, and flamethrowers, or escalate their assault with turrets, mines, chemical attacks, and grenades. The game's focus on unit control and quick deployment of these tools feels rewarding, with each victory at a spawn point feeling earned.

Learning Curve and Controls

While the game is quite engaging, some special attacks feature a steep learning curve. Mastering these abilities is both challenging and crucial, as they can turn the tide in the heated moments of a mission. Additionally, the game's method of scrolling—moving the mouse to the edge of the screen—can sometimes result in unintentional camera movements, momentarily disorienting the player.

Audio and Visual Elements

The game's audio is functional if not particularly noteworthy. Sound effects serve their purpose without distracting from the gameplay, though they don't necessarily enhance it either.

Visually, Attack of the Paper Zombies !!! captivates with its charming paper craft-style graphics. The hand-drawn elements carry an impressive level of detail and personality that contribute to a light-hearted atmosphere juxtaposed with the game's otherwise intense strategic demands.

Final Thoughts

Despite its indubitably indie nature, Attack of the Paper Zombies !!! stands out as a solid RTS that offers a satisfying depth of gameplay. The combination of strategy, varied weapon systems, and the necessity for tactical thinking make for a powerful gaming experience. The tutorials and stylish presentation elevate it above many of its indie peers, providing an excellent choice for RTS fans looking for something fresh and engaging.

Pros

• Creative hand-drawn graphics with a unique style
• Engaging RTS gameplay requiring strategic thinking
• Wide variety of weapons and defensive options
• Detailed tutorials that thoroughly prepare players

Cons

• Special abilities have a challenging learning curve
• Scrolling method may cause unintended shifts in view
• Sound effects are adequate but unremarkable