Behind the Scenes of Zombie Outbreak’s Success

The Evolution of Zombie Outbreak

When it comes to slot machines, few titles have achieved the same level of success as Zombie Outbreak. Released in 2014 by IGT (International Game Technology), this game has been a staple in many casinos for years, with its unique blend of horror and action drawing players in and keeping them hooked.

But what sets here Zombie Outbreak apart from other slots? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the game’s development, mechanics, and marketing strategies that have contributed to its enduring popularity.

Designing a Winner

Zombie Outbreak was designed by IGT’s creative team, led by Art Director, Michael Faust. Faust has worked on numerous projects for IGT, but Zombie Outbreak stands out as one of his most notable achievements.

"We knew we wanted to create something that would stand out in the market," Faust recalls. "With the success of Walking Dead and other zombie-themed media, it was clear there was a demand for this type of game."

Faust’s team spent months researching different types of zombies, from fast-moving sprinters to lumbering slow-movers. They also drew inspiration from various cultures’ depictions of zombies in film and literature.

"We wanted our zombies to be relatable but also terrifying," Faust explains. "We experimented with different designs until we hit upon the right balance."

The Mechanics of Mayhem

Zombie Outbreak’s gameplay is built around a 5-reel, 30-payline grid, with symbols ranging from basic numbers and letters to higher-paying zombie icons.

The game features a number of bonus rounds, including a "Wild" feature that can be triggered during the base game. When activated, all high-paying zombie symbols become Wild, allowing players to create winning combinations more easily.

Another key aspect of Zombie Outbreak is its use of IGT’s "Tumbling Reels" technology. This system allows for consecutive wins on a single spin, creating an immersive experience that keeps players engaged.

"We wanted to give players the feeling of being in the midst of a zombie outbreak," Faust notes. "With Tumbling Reels, each win creates more opportunities for the zombies to continue their rampage."

Marketing and Merchandising

IGT’s marketing strategy for Zombie Outbreak was multifaceted, with a focus on social media, online advertising, and promotions at participating casinos.

The game’s release coincided with Halloween 2014, allowing IGT to capitalize on the holiday’s popularity. A series of viral ads featured animated zombies wreaking havoc in cities around the world, highlighting the game’s fast-paced action and thrilling bonuses.

Participating casinos were encouraged to run special promotions tied to Zombie Outbreak, offering bonus playtime, free spins, or even prize giveaways for players who achieved specific milestones.

"We wanted to create a sense of urgency around the game," says Marketing Director, Emily Lee. "By tying it into Halloween, we made it feel like a limited-time offer that wouldn’t last forever."

The Rise to Stardom

Zombie Outbreak’s success can be measured in several ways. In its first year alone, the game generated over $1 billion in revenue for IGT.

Casinos around the world were quick to take notice of the game’s potential, with many adding it to their floors soon after release. Online versions followed shortly thereafter, further increasing the game’s visibility and accessibility.

Players praised Zombie Outbreak for its thrilling gameplay, generous bonuses, and eerie atmosphere. Social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter filled with testimonials from players who had achieved life-changing wins or enjoyed long streaks of success.

"We were thrilled to see how well-received Zombie Outbreak was," Faust says. "The team’s hard work paid off in a big way."

A Legacy Continues

Five years after its release, Zombie Outbreak remains one of IGT’s top-grossing slots. New versions and updates have continued to push the game forward, incorporating new features like bonus games and progressive jackpots.

As gaming trends evolve and new technologies emerge, it will be interesting to see how Zombie Outbreak adapts to stay relevant in an ever-changing market.

For now, however, the game remains a testament to IGT’s innovative approach to slot machine design. By combining cutting-edge mechanics with a captivating theme, they’ve created something that continues to captivate players worldwide.

"We’re proud of what we’ve accomplished with Zombie Outbreak," Faust concludes. "But we know there’s always room for improvement. We’ll keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in slots."