Survive and Thrive: ‘They Are Billions’ Review

Intro

They Are Billions is a thrilling real-time strategy game set in a post-apocalyptic steampunk world. Developed by Numantian Games, this indie gem has gained a massive following since its early access release in 2017. The game offers a unique blend of base-building, resource management, and intense tower defense gameplay, providing an exhilarating experience for strategy enthusiasts.

Gameplay

In They Are Billions, players are tasked with managing a group of survivors in a world overrun by billions of infected zombies. The main objective is to build and defend a colony against waves of undead attacks, while also expanding and exploring the surrounding environment to gather resources and uncover secrets.

At the heart of the game lies the base-building aspect, where players must strategically place buildings and establish an efficient infrastructure to support their colony. Each building serves a specific purpose, such as housing for survivors, production of resources, or defense against zombie hordes. Balancing these elements becomes crucial for survival, as any weak point in the defenses can lead to catastrophic consequences.

The tower defense aspect of They Are Billions adds an extra layer of challenge. Players must strategically position various defenses, such as walls, traps, and turrets, to protect their colony from the relentless hordes of infected. The game cleverly forces players to make tough decisions, as expanding too quickly can attract larger waves of zombies, while remaining stagnant leaves the colony vulnerable to attacks.

Visuals and Sound

The developers have done a remarkable job in creating a visually stunning steampunk world. The attention to detail in the environment and unit designs is awe-inspiring. From the decaying ruins to the intricate steampunk machinery, every aspect of the game is beautifully crafted.

The sound design also deserves praise, as it effectively immerses players in the post-apocalyptic atmosphere. From the haunting background music to the chilling sound effects of the zombie hordes, every auditory element adds to the tension and excitement of the gameplay experience.

Getting Started Guide

For new players diving into the challenging world of They Are Billions, here are some essential tips to survive and thrive:

1. Start Slow

At the beginning of the game, take your time to carefully plan your base and expand gradually. Rushing into expansion too quickly can lead to overwhelming zombie attacks and potential failure. Focus on establishing a solid defense and resource production before venturing further.

2. Scout the Surroundings

Send out scouts to explore the surrounding areas and reveal the map. This will help you identify resource-rich locations and potential threats. Keep an eye out for special sites that may contain valuable treasures or crucial information to aid your survival.

3. Prioritize Research

Research is key to unlocking advanced technologies and improvements for your colony. Prioritize researching units, buildings, and upgrades that enhance defense, resource production, and expansion capabilities. This will give you an edge against the ever-increasing zombie waves.

4. Balance Resource Management

Efficient resource management is vital for a thriving colony. Balance the production of food, energy, gold, and other resources to ensure a stable economy. Strive to maximize resource output without neglecting defense and expansion needs.

5. Adapt and Learn from Failures

They Are Billions is a challenging game, and failure is inevitable. Embrace each defeat as an opportunity to learn from your mistakes and adapt your strategies. Experiment with different base layouts, defense tactics, and resource allocation to find what works best for your playstyle.

The Bottom Line

They Are Billions offers an intense and addictive gaming experience for strategy enthusiasts. With its immersive steampunk world, challenging gameplay mechanics, and a constant sense of impending doom, the game keeps players on the edge of their seats. Whether you enjoy base-building, tower defense, or both, this game is a must-try. So, gather your survivors, fortify your defenses, and prepare to face the horde in They Are Billions!