Extraction shooter reaches 100K wishlists – the next big thing after ARC Raiders?

ZERO Sievert 2 is being developed by Underdog and aims to build on the surprise success of ZERO Sievert from 2022. The first game was created by solo developer Luca Carbonara and became a commercial success despite its niche appeal. Fans of Escape from Tarkov and S.T.A.L.K.E.R. in particular praised its mix of extraction gameplay, survival elements and dark pixel-art atmosphere.

The sequel is now aiming much higher. While the game is still set in the post-apocalyptic region of Zakov, a major graphics upgrade brings more modern visuals and significantly more detailed environments. The top-down perspective remains, but the pixel-art look is now a thing of the past.

Once again, the focus is on dangerous raids in procedurally generated areas. Players fight bandits, mutants, hostile factions and deadly anomalies, collect valuable equipment and then have to make it out alive. New additions include dynamic weather such as fog, snowstorms and acid rain, as well as relics with passive and active abilities. The biggest new feature, however, is co-op: up to four players can head out on raids together, complete quests and secure loot. According to the developers, each player keeps their own progress, experience points and equipment.

Community reaction has so far been overwhelmingly enthusiastic, especially when it comes to co-op. Many players describe it as the one feature the first game was missing. The graphics upgrade has also been well received, with some even calling it an “evolutionary leap”. However, some fans worry that ZERO Sievert 2 could lose part of its identity by moving away from the pixel-art look.

Competition for ARC Raiders?

ZERO Sievert 2 is also frequently being compared to ARC Raiders. Both games belong to the extraction-shooter genre and focus on risky loot runs, co-op and dangerous game worlds. While ARC Raiders leans more heavily into PvPvE and cinematic third-person action, ZERO Sievert 2 takes a much more tactical PvE approach. Extraction fans who are not in the mood for stressful PvP could therefore feel right at home here. Overall, ZERO Sievert 2 is unlikely to overtake ARC Raiders, but as a more tactical and PvE-heavy alternative, it is shaping up to be an exciting addition to the extraction-shooter genre.