Long live the queen… Wait, why is she eating Sir Drake’s face? That’s what I’ll be thinking every time I play this game, for obvious reasons shown in the picture below. But enough about me, the developers have revealed a massive number of changes in the latest alpha gameplay showcase as the game shifts into the beta phase, moving closer to release.

God Save Birmingham’s first closed beta test is set to begin next week, giving a larger group of players access to the medieval zombie survival game. The test follows a recent alpha test and serves as the studio’s latest opportunity to gather feedback on balance, performance, combat, and overall progression.

Since the previous closed alpha, the development team has focused heavily on combat improvements after receiving significant player feedback. Attack animations have been reworked to feel faster, controls have been made more responsive, and overall animation quality has been improved. To offset these changes, zombies have been made slightly tougher, with developers aiming to maintain a challenging pace during encounters.

Several new weapon types have also been introduced, including one-handed swords, spears, and halberds. Each weapon now features its own animations and statistics, requiring players to consider factors such as durability, damage output, and stopping power. A new shouting mechanic allows players to attract zombies toward specific locations, creating additional tactical options.

The game’s physics systems have received further attention as well. Grappling interactions between players and zombies have been refined, new escape methods have been added, and object interactions now place greater demands on stamina. Ladders can also be positioned freely throughout the environment and remain fully affected by physics, meaning they can be knocked down by zombies while in use.

Outside of combat, survival mechanics have expanded considerably. Chickens have been added as livestock and can provide eggs when housed in coops. Players can forage berries in nearby forests, harvest vegetables from gardens, collect water from rivers, and gather rainwater during storms. However, drinking untreated river water may lead to illness. The upcoming build also includes a playable section of the game’s world featuring a tutorial area.

Weather now plays a larger role in day-to-day survival. Fog can reduce zombie visibility, while rain and falling temperatures create new risks. Fire has become both more useful and more dangerous, as flames can spread to nearby wooden objects and cause burn injuries.

The crafting system has also grown, with advanced carpentry, blacksmithing, and tailoring activities requiring dedicated workstations found throughout the village. Sleep mechanics have been expanded as well, encouraging players to secure safe shelters, maintain warmth, and obtain better beds to improve recovery.

While the beta introduces a substantial amount of new content, several planned features remain absent. Save functionality is still in development, co-op play is not yet available, and developers continue to work on optimization, user interface improvements, and inventory management tools.

The closed beta for God Save Birmingham is scheduled to run from June 22 through June 29, and players can request access on Steam. And yes, I’ve already signed up!