Hunger: A Multiplayer RPG with Extraction Gameplay

In the crowded world of extraction shooters, standing out is no small feat. That's why I was thrilled to sit down with developers from Good Fun Corporation to get a sneak peek at Hunger, their upcoming first-person action-RPG powered by Unreal Engine 5. This game isn't just another extraction shooter; it's a unique blend of zombie survival and deep RPG mechanics wrapped in an engaging extraction loop.

Hunger - First Screenshots

View 6 ImagesTwo aspects of Hunger immediately caught my attention: its visual aesthetic and its stunning graphics. Game director Maximilian Rea describes the game's look as "Renaissance gothic," a fitting description for its mix of first-generation firearms and brutal melee weapons set against the backdrop of filthy, lived-in towns and majestic castles. The game's use of Unreal Engine 5 is nothing short of impressive, with breathtaking foliage, lighting, and texture detail.

While I couldn't get hands-on with the game just yet, the demo showcased a promising blend of simplicity and complexity, drawing inspiration from ARC Raiders and Escape From Tarkov. Players start in the Outer Ramparts, a peaceful social hub within the Chateau where you can interact with other players and NPCs. Here, you can switch to a third-person perspective, but during combat, it's strictly first-person. You can shop with Piro, a quirky shopkeeper with a metal mask, or manage your stash with Louis, the Stashmaster, who also hands out quests. For expeditions, you'll talk to Reynauld, the Expedition Master, who's missing parts of his fingers—a testament to his encounters with zombies.

The initial Early Access release will feature three maps: Jacques Bridge, Sombre Forest, and Sarlat Farm, each spanning one square kilometer with a large dungeon beneath. Expect six weather varieties per map, ranging from clear noon to foggy noon, sunset, and sunrise. Post-release, more dynamic elements will be added. Rea aims for 50-60 hours of content before unlocking the Cauldron, a new area in the Chateau where you'll learn one of six professions—three for gathering (Scavenging, Conservator, Naturalist) and three for crafting (Metallurgy, Gunsmithing, Cooking). You can have two professions at once.

The game's narrative revolves around civil conflict triggered by The End, a bacteria that caused the Hunger. As you play, you'll uncover lore through Missives and Maps, which are categorized as Common, Rare, or Legendary. Extracting with a Missive lets you read it back in the Chateau for XP, and collecting them all reveals the game's full story. NPCs will also contribute to the narrative, ensuring every aspect of Hunger is rich with story.

The Hunger themselves are varied, with different qualities and behaviors. Opting for melee combat offers the advantage of silence, while gunfire attracts more undead. For instance, the Bloater explodes into a cloud of poisonous gas, and the Shambler inflicts bleed damage.

Hunger boasts 33 weapons, ranging from daggers and pistols to maces and primitive machine guns. Exotic ammo adds extra damage effects to your shots. For those craving PvP action, dedicated experiences will be available. The Mastery Tree allows progression through four categories: Physiology, Survival, Martial, and Cunning, ensuring multiple paths to success beyond PvP.

HUNGERGOOD FUN CORPORATIONTBA 2025 WishlistSolo and duo play are viable options, with Rea emphasizing that being a solo or duo player isn't a death sentence but one of the quickest ways to progress. Cosmetics for weapons and bags are unlocked through leveling up and defeating bosses.

Hunger won't be free-to-play, aiming to avoid pay-to-win mechanics and battle passes. A "Support the Developers" edition will include extra cosmetics, priced above the standard $30.

Expeditions are designed to last between 30-35 minutes, making Hunger an accessible game to enjoy with friends before bed. Every session contributes to XP gains, ensuring no playtime is wasted. "If they've played for an hour, we want them to feel like they've meaningfully moved the ball forward for their character," Rea stated.

While Hunger is still some time away, the early build and the vision of the team behind Hell Let Loose suggest a unique and compelling experience on the horizon. Keep an eye on IGN for more updates as development progresses.