The Crazies

The Crazies is a free fan third-person shooter with survival elements, based on the 1973 horror classic of the same name directed by George A. Romero. The game takes place just before the events of the original film, was developed by Stefano Cagnani (Steven Games Studio) and initially released on November 26, 2024.

Published by Stefano himself and available for Windows, The Crazies is a relatively short experience where you play as a hazmat soldier sent to clean up the “Zero Zone,” the site of an accident involving a train carrying dangerous chemical compounds. These compounds cause infected individuals to succumb to violent, zombie-like insanity.

Videos

About the game

This short game is based on Romero’s famous 1973 cult movie (not that shit from the remake). 

The gameplay is very simple, basic interactions + basic shooting.

The story follows the events of the film, but in parallel with some differences.

I hope you like it, fans of the film will love it! Supporters may be rewarded with a more in-depth version of the game in the future. It depends on how many people appreciate this title.

Gameplay

In The Crazies, you take on the role of a hazmat soldier on a high-risk mission to contain the contamination caused by a chemical accident in the so-called “Zero Zone.” The train involved in the incident carried extremely hazardous biological compounds, which turned infected soldiers and civilians into violent killers with irrational behavior, akin to zombies or slavish minions of state bureaucrats.

The gameplay is straightforward, focusing on basic shooting and interaction mechanics. Your primary objective is to eliminate the infected, gather ammunition, and prevent the virus from spreading beyond the affected area. During the mission, you’ll explore tense and dark environments while dealing with a growing sense of danger.

The Crazies also incorporates typical survival elements, such as managing ammunition in a setting where progress demands caution and precision. Additionally, there are intense combat moments against hordes of infected and unexpected events that enhance immersion and the sense of urgency.

As you play, you’ll notice that the virus infects victims instantly, adding an element of constant peril while exploring the “Zero Zone.” Despite being short, The Crazies strives to capture the atmosphere of Romero’s work, offering an experience faithful to its narrative and tension.

Controls

• WASD – Move
• Mouse – Turn camera
• E – Interact
• Left Mouse Button – Fire (only when aiming)
• Right Mouse Button – Aim (needed for shooting)

Trivia

• Game Engine – The Crazies was developed using a version of Unreal Engine, most likely UE4, based on the author’s other works.
• Original Material – The 1973 film The Crazies, directed by George A. Romero, is a cult classic in the horror and sci-fi genres. The story follows a small town in the U.S. that is devastated by a military virus accidentally released, turning the residents into insane killers while the government attempts to contain the situation in a brutal and, as always, inefficient manner. The film was remade in 2010, which, as seen in the game’s presentation, is disliked by the game’s author. I didn’t think it was that bad, but it’s undeniable that Romero’s atmosphere and style are on a whole different level.
• Reference – The train involved in the chemical accident is a direct reference to the plot of the film, but in the game, it becomes a focal point for the contamination the player must contain. Additionally, as mentioned in the presentation, the game takes creative liberties with the original film.
• Spoiler – Despite the player’s efforts, the infection spreads quickly, forcing the complete destruction of the town as a containment measure. The game ends with a tribute to the film’s tense and desperate atmosphere.
• Future? – In the The Crazies presentation, the author hints at the possibility of a more in-depth version in the future, depending on fan response and support for the project. It’s something he always says, but I’ve yet to see any of his demos evolve into a full fledged game. Still, hope springs eternal.
• Setting – The environment is enhanced by small details, such as the absence of birds and other signs of life, hinting at the devastating impact of the contamination on the area.

Screenshots

More info and TPS

• The Crazies @ Itch.io – With more information, media, comments, etc.
• The Crazies @ Gaming Room – Source, with more info and media. In Portuguese.
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