SynthwaveZ

(DISCLAIMER! Please contact me directly on the discord provided or steam discussions for bugs/Quality of life issues.

SynthwaveZ
A Wave-Based Zombie Survival Shooter Set in an Alternate 1980s Dystopia
SynthwaveZ is a fast-paced, arcade-style zombie survival shooter set in a gritty, alternate 1980s world. Designed as a break from competitive multiplayer fatigue, this game lets you and up to 3 friends team up (or play solo) to fight off relentless waves of the un-dead.
With each wave, the intensity rises—zombies become faster, tougher, and more aggressive, pushing you to adapt your weapons, tactics, and teamwork to survive.

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🧟‍♂️ What Makes SynthwaveZ Different?

💥 Over-the-Top Action!
 
 -  Play how you want! Aim down Sights or use a tactical point-fire position for a better view
Call in airstrikes to wipe the horde.

Call in your own P.D.E.S.C. bot or Awaken the C.E.D.D  (Personal Defense & Emotional Support Companion) (Controlled euthanization and dismemberment Droid)

Out of ammo? Summon a Drop Pod to restock or bring heavy firepower.

🎮 Gameplay That Respects Your Time
No grinding. All weapons, perks, and items are available in-match—earn them with skill or luck.

Only progression system is a simple rank—just for bragging rights.

🧩 More Than Just Survival
Solve practical puzzles to unlock secret rooms, hidden weapons, and Easter eggs.

Challenge yourself to complete the level by defeating unique bosses.

Or just play infinitely and see how long you can last.

👤 All Characters Unlocked
Choose from 5 distinct characters, each available from the start—no unlock walls.

- Airstrikes: Multiple airstrikes to use and find on the map!
- Drop Pods: Call in drop pods to resupply, bring heavy ordinance, auto turrets and much more. Don't get caught un-prepared and empty handed against the horde.
- Perks system: buy perks from different points around the map to gain special abilities. There are 6 perks at the moment and more will be added over time.
- Traps are placed at various locations through out each map to help you tame the undead horde. Each trap is unique both visually and how they work. Some are devastating but quick, Others are meant to slow the horde down and help you make a quick getaway.

🔫 Features
Currently 7  Maps: Death Valley, Last Resort, LockDown, Bunker, Disturbia,  Proving Grounds and Rise of the dead.
along with a bonus Shooting range 

Dozens of Weapons & Variants: Every base weapon has unique versions with custom attachments, sounds, and stats.

Weapon Upgrades: Use the Munition Maximizer to turn basic guns into zombie-slaying beasts.

Airstrikes & Drop Pods: Tactical options that let you reshape the battlefield.

Traps: Each map includes unique traps—some deadly, some tactical—to help control the chaos.

Perk System: 10 perks available (and more coming) to enhance your survivability and combat power.

Co-op or Solo: Play alone or team up online with up to 3 friends.

🔒 No Paid DLC
All major updates, new maps, weapons, and content will be free for everyone who owns the game.
About the Developer
Hi, I'm a solo indie dev who works full-time as a mechanic. I built SynthwaveZ to be the kind of game I’d want to play with my friends—something fun, fast, and full of personality.
There’s no grind. No complicated systems. No pressure. Just good, chaotic, zombie-blasting fun.
Your feedback matters—I take all suggestions seriously and do my best to respond quickly (when my wife and daughter let me!). Updates might not always be lightning-fast, but I'm constantly working to improve the game.
Thanks for checking out SynthwaveZ
Join the Shadow Games Discord for news, suggestions, and community fun!

All music by Karl Casey @whitebataudio on YouTube.