In the ever-evolving landscape of zombie games that saw a boom in previous years, Techland’s Dying Light successfully carved out its own identity. The first-person perspective, parkour-based movement system, and dynamic day-night cycle, which affected the types of threats players faced, were among its most defining and praised features. While the sequel, Dying Light 2, received a more mixed reception, Techland is now preparing to attack the market once more with Dying Light: The Beast.
What makes Dying Light: The Beast particularly intriguing is its developmental background. Originally conceived as a paid expansion for Dying Light 2, it eventually evolved into a standalone title, promising over 20 hours of gameplay content. This shift signals more than just a larger scope — it represents a shift in how Techland sees the project internally.
In a recent interview with Insider Gaming, Techland’s franchise director Tymon Smektała revealed that the studio views Dying Light: The Beast as more than a spin-off. Despite not carrying a number in its title, internally, the team considers it to be the spiritual successor to the previous entries, essentially Dying Light 3 in all but name.
Smektała emphasised that the game is being built from the ground up as the best possible version of Dying Light, incorporating lessons learned from both the first and second instalments. From the outset, The Beast has been envisioned as a culmination of the studio’s evolving design philosophy and narrative ambition.
This internal perspective is not something Techland plans to keep behind closed doors. They are intentionally shaping their marketing strategy to reflect this positioning. The studio wants fans and new players alike to understand that Dying Light: The Beast is not just an expansion-turned-standalone game, but a full-fledged AAA entry worthy of standing alongside its predecessors.
Dying Light: The Beast is scheduled for release on August 22 and will be available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
