E3 2021: Warner Bros. Games Announces More Information On Back 4 Blood

At E3, developers Turtle Rock Studios and Warner Bros. Games have decided to focus their efforts on the up and coming zombie co-op Back 4 Blood. As well as making an appearence in the Xbox Bethesda showcase, the team have released an extended look, delving into the game and how the multiplayer modes are shaping up.

Before we get into that, it was also announced that Back 4 Blood will be launching on Xbox Game Pass on the same date as it’s general release – 12th October 2021. This is a massive coup for Game Pass owners as they’ll have access to the game at no extra cost.

Today we had a look at Swarm mode, a player vs player experience where two squads of four will face off against each other in a best-of-three series of rounds. Teams swap between playing as the Cleaners (humans) and the Ridden (Zombies). Points are then awarded based on how long the Cleaners can stay alive and endure Ridden attacks, with the team that keeps the clock going the longest as Cleaners winning the match.

There are nine Ridden variants, including the Tallboy,  Bruiser,  Crusher,  Reeker,  Exploder,  Retch,  Stinger,  Hocker and  Stalker to choose from. Each will have their own abilities and advantages to make use off as you chase down the cleaners.

Along with the gameplay footage, other announcements included the Back 4 Blood beta test dates. Those who preorder the game on any platform will be able to access a beta test on 5th – 9th August, before an open beta begins on 12th – 16th August. If you didn’t want to preorder the game you can go to the Back 4 Blood Website (opens in new tab) to register, although codes are apparently limited. If you participated in last year’s Alpha test, you’ll be emailed with your access closer to the time.

Back 4 Blood will be available for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4 and PC on 12th October 2021.