Microsoft's exclusive zombie survival game State of Decay 2 is quickly approaching, and we recently got another opportunity to check it out ahead of its release. While the game bears many similarities to its predecessor, one of the biggest ways it diverges from the original State of Decay is its multiplayer mode. This time around, developer Undead Labs has implemented drop-in, drop-out co-op play, allowing one player to host up to three companions in their game to complete missions and scrounge for resources together.
The new multiplayer mode has its limitations; only the player hosting the session can select which quests the squad undertakes, and you can't venture too far from the host player before the game pulls you back into their vicinity, undermining the draw of its expansive world. Even with these restrictions, however, State of Decay 2's tense atmosphere and vast scope make co-op a fun way to experience the adventure.
In the video above, GameSpot's Nick Margherita and Jake Dekker get to try out a multiplayer session of State of Decay 2. The pair play nearly 10 minutes of the game cooperatively, venturing out together under the cover of darkness to a dilapidated gas station and convenience store to secure supplies for their base.
State of Decay 2 launches for Xbox One and PC on May 22. The game is being released in two versions; the Standard Edition retails for a discounted $30, while the Ultimate Edition costs $50 and includes a free Xbox One copy of State of Decay: Year One Survival Edition. Those who pick up the Ultimate Edition will also get early access to State of Decay 2 on May 18. Microsoft is offering a $70 Collector's Edition as well, which comes with an assortment of physical collectibles but doesn't include a copy of the game.
If you're looking for more on State of Decay 2, you can watch us play through the first 15 minutes of the game solo and check out our video on the five biggest changes State of Decay 2 makes over its predecessor. We also recently got a chance to speak with the team at Undead Labs on what they learned from the original game.