Hunger: A Multiplayer RPG with Extraction Loop, Yet Unique

In the ever-growing sea of extraction shooters, standing out requires innovation and flair. This is precisely what the team at Good Fun Corporation aims to achieve with their upcoming game, Hunger. I had the privilege of meeting with developers from the studio to get a sneak peek at this intriguing first-person action-RPG, powered by Unreal Engine 5, which incorporates a unique extraction loop.

The developers are keen to distance Hunger from the typical extraction shooter label, and after witnessing an early build, it's clear they're on the right track. While an exact release date remains under wraps, the Early Access launch promises to deliver a distinctive gaming experience.

Hunger - First Screenshots

View 6 ImagesTwo aspects of Hunger caught my attention immediately: its visual style and the stunning graphics. Game director Maximilian Rea described the aesthetic as "Renaissance gothic," a fitting label for a world that blends first-generation firearms with brutal melee weapons amidst grimy, lived-in towns and majestic castles. The visuals, with their lush foliage, breathtaking lighting, and detailed textures, showcase one of the most impressive uses of Unreal Engine 5 to date.

While I couldn't go hands-on with the game during my demo, the developers shared their vision for Hunger's gameplay. They aim to combine the simplicity of ARC Raiders with the depth of Escape From Tarkov. Players begin their journey in the Outer Ramparts, a peaceful social hub within the Chateau where they can interact with other players and NPCs. Here, you can switch to a third-person perspective, though combat remains first-person. You'll encounter Piro, a quirky shopkeeper with a metal mask, who offers items from a tray around his neck, reminiscent of a 1920s cigarette girl. Louis, the Stashmaster, allows you to manage your inventory and occasionally offers quests, while Reynauld, the Expedition Master, with his missing fingers—a testament to his encounters with zombies—queues you into expeditions, or raids.

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 a variety of weather conditions, including clear and foggy noon, sunset, and sunrise, with more dynamic elements to be added post-release. Rea explained that the game aims to offer 50-60 hours of content before unlocking the Cauldron, a new Chateau area where players learn one of six professions. These include three gathering roles (Scavenging, Conservator, and Naturalist) and three crafting roles (Metallurgy, Gunsmithing, and Cooking), with players able to hold two professions at once.

The narrative backdrop of Hunger involves a civil conflict triggered by The End, a bacteria causing the Hunger. Players can uncover lore through Missives and Maps, categorized as Common, Rare, or Legendary. Extracting with a Missive allows you to read it back at the Chateau, earning XP and piecing together the game's story. The developers also plan to weave the narrative through NPC dialogue, aiming to infuse every aspect of the game with story.

The Hunger come in various forms, each with unique characteristics. Opting for melee combat allows for stealth, while shooting attracts more zombies. For example, the Bloater is a blob-like creature that explodes into a poisonous gas cloud, whereas Shambler attacks cause bleeding.

Hunger offers 33 weapons, spanning melee and ranged options from daggers and pistols to maces and primitive machine guns. Players can find exotic ammo to enhance bullet effects. Dedicated PvP experiences cater to competitive players, and a Mastery Tree with four branches—Physiology, Survival, Martial, and Cunning—provides diverse progression paths beyond PvP. Levels range from 10 to 100, with each level granting a mastery point.

HUNGERGOOD FUN CORPORATIONTBA 2025 WishlistSolo and duo play are viable options, with Rea emphasizing that these modes are among the fastest ways to progress. Cosmetics unlock as you level up, defeat bosses, and achieve other milestones, with customization options for every weapon and bag.

Hunger will not be free-to-play, avoiding pay-to-win elements and battle passes. A "Support the Developers" edition will include additional cosmetics, priced above the standard $30 edition.

What's your plan for surviving the zombie apocalypse? -----------------------------------------------------

Take over a shopping mall (always ends well)Hide in a bunkerFind a motorcycle and keep movingGet real good at campingPaddle out in a boat and hope zombies can't swimOther - tell us in the comments

AnswerSee ResultsExpeditions in Hunger are designed to last around 30-35 minutes, making it easy to play a quick session with friends and feel accomplished without the burden of endless live-service commitments. Even if you die, your efforts contribute to XP gains, ensuring every session is meaningful. Rea emphasized the importance of players feeling they've made significant progress within an hour of gameplay.

While Hunger is still some time away, the team behind Hell Let Loose appears to be crafting something truly unique. Keep an eye on IGN for further updates as development progresses.