The next alpha test for the game has started, and developers have shared new details about combat, crafting, weapons, survival mechanics, and what they’ve been doing to develop an authentic zombie survival simulator set in medieval Birmingham.

The new test introduces a guided system to the game that blends tutorial lessons with clear progression goals. It introduces the main character, explains the setting, and acts like both a quest log and a teacher, so you learn what to do while staying tied to the character’s aims.

Combat and weapons received careful changes after feedback from testers, and now include one-handed blunt tools such as clubs, maces, and hammers are now in the game. They do not cut limbs, but they work well for head strikes and can stagger undead foes. The update also turns everyday items into real options, for example, a rolling pin can be just as useful as a traditional mace in the right hands.

A scythe is included but treated as a working tool rather than a flashy sword. Animations pull from real farming movements so swings feel natural. Used with force a scythe can sever legs or knock zombies down, but it behaves differently from other bladed weapons.

Durability now matters across the board as weapons and tools wear down and will break if you keep using them. Doors and barricades also lose strength over time, so maintaining and stocking spare parts becomes part of the daily routine. If you find a locked house you want to loot, you can break the entrance, but your own shelter needs upkeep to stay secure.

Blades have a sharpness value, making a dull knife or axe less effective after use, so players who return to base after a day of scavenging can sharpen gear before the next trip. The team also added small, hands-on tasks to make this feel real rather than abstract.

Melee aiming received a notable upgrade, where hits now land where the mouse reticle points and zombies react based on the body part struck. That change rewards careful targeting and gives more weight to precision in a third-person melee setup. The work to make strikes match the player’s intent shows in the improved feel of fights.

Crafting and base systems are also taking shape. You can lock doors with latches and fully board up entrances you do not plan to use. Some homes will be locked or barricaded and require the right tools and time to enter. Basic structures like fire pits and drying racks can be built in the world, and the team plans to expand this list in future builds.

Survival hinges on managing wounds, cleanliness, and disease, and untreated injuries can bleed or become infected. Cold and filth can invite illnesses ranging from a mild cold to deadly infections. The update added animation and detail for common tasks such as wrapping wounds, washing in a stream, sharpening tools, and cooking. These small actions aim to help the systems feel more alive.

The developers revealed that they are committed to making God Save Birmingham more immersive and welcome all player feedback. Hopefully, the new alpha test will not only help them address issues but also provide new ideas for crafting a more unique zombie survival game.