With the clock ticking down to its release, anticipation for Dying Light: The Beast is nearing a fever pitch. Originally conceived as the second DLC for Dying Light 2: Stay Human, developer Techland has evolved this project into what many are calling the next installment of the beloved zombie survival franchise—essentially Dying Light 3 in all but name. Set to launch on August 22, 2025, the game promises to combine the hallmarks of the series with new elements that aim to enrich the gaming experience.
Evolution from DLC to Standalone Title
The transformation of Dying Light: The Beast from downloadable content to a standalone title came as a result of various factors, including a significant narrative leak that occurred in 2023. According to Franchise Director Tymon Smektala, hackers managed to access the plot details intended for the DLC, prompting the team to rethink their approach. Additionally, the desire to reintroduce Kyle Crane, the protagonist from the original game, played a pivotal role in this shift. Smektala indicated that the development timeline for this game has been notably shorter, taking about three and a half years—considerably less than the seven years required for the previous titles.
Release Date, Platforms, Pricing, and Editions
Dying Light: The Beast is set to release on multiple platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series S|X on August 22, 2025, with later releases planned for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One. Techland has not forgotten about last-gen consoles, as they aim to make the game accessible to a wider audience. Additionally, Smektala expressed interest in potentially bringing the game to the Nintendo Switch 2, though no confirmation exists yet.
The game is available for pre-order in two editions. The Standard Edition is priced at $59.99, while the Deluxe Edition costs $69.99 and includes:
- Official Soundtrack
- Wallpaper Pack
- Castor Woods Tourist Map
- Castor Woods Prepper Bundle
- Castor Woods Prepper Outfit
- Survivalist SMG
- Roadhog
Pre-orders will also receive exclusive bonuses, including:
- Ultimate Survivor Outfit
- Harran Combat Knife (+ Upgradable Blueprint)
- The Follower Crossbow (+ Upgradable Blueprint)
- In Jade’s Memory Pistol (+ Upgradable Blueprint)
- Castor Woods Patrol
Moreover, players who purchased the Ultimate Edition of Dying Light 2: Stay Human at launch will receive Dying Light: The Beast for free, a nod to its historical roots as part of the earlier game.
Genre, Setting, and Story Premise
In this installment, players will once again take on the role of Kyle Crane, returning to the voice of Roger Craig Smith. The game’s narrative unfolds after the first game’s events and its expansion, The Following. Crane has been imprisoned and subjected to experiments involving the zombie virus for thirteen years. After a dramatic escape, he seeks revenge on Marius “The Baron” Fischer, which Techland cites as being inspired by the South Korean film Oldboy, where the protagonist similarly embarks on a quest for vengeance after prolonged captivity.
Gameplay Innovations and Mechanics
One of the significant aims for Techland with this installment is to recapture the hardcore survival essence that fans appreciated from the first game. This includes a return to save zones that are more aligned with the original title but enhanced with features such as barricading. A critical feature in combat is Crane’s new beast-like powers that offer brutal attacks, allowing players to engage in visceral action by crushing and tearing through enemies.
Unlike Dying Light 2, firearms will be included from the outset, expanding combat options for players. While parkour remains integral to gameplay, the rural environment means traversing rooftops will occur less frequently. Vehicles, particularly a 4×4, make a comeback, allowing players to enjoy the rush of mowing down zombies as they navigate the landscape.
The game will continue to feature a day-night cycle, where exploration is more manageable during daylight hours while more menacing zombies emerge at night. Additionally, cooperative gameplay will support teams of up to four players with shared progression, enhancing the social aspect of the game.
Technical Features and Expectations
Built on the latest iteration of Techland’s proprietary C-Engine, Dying Light: The Beast boasts improvements in key areas such as rendering weather effects, materials, lighting, and shadows. While specific PC system requirements are yet to be disclosed, the decision to make the game available on old-gen consoles suggests that the technical demands may be more accommodating. Such considerations are crucial for ensuring a broad player base can enjoy the game upon its release.
The hype surrounding Dying Light: The Beast is palpable, fueled by both its ambitious scope and the nostalgia of returning characters and gameplay mechanics. As the release date approaches, fans are eager to dive back into the chaos of the zombie apocalypse and experience what promises to be an engaging continuation of the franchise.