Project Zomboid is no longer a new game, but thanks to the dedicated developer, it continues to receive fresh updates. In December 2024, the first unstable release of the new Build 42 was launched, allowing players to test and experiment with it. But what exactly does this new update add? And is it worth switching to the new version now? Today, we’ll take a closer look at all the announced and already implemented changes that you can expect when transitioning to Build 42.
Exciting Map Expansions and Adjustments
Like many previous updates, Build 42 features a map upgrade. Three completely new cities are now explorable: Brandenburg, Ekron, and Irvington. These expand the map, particularly in the southwest, offering many new locations where you can find loot. Additionally, you can start the game directly in the new location “Echo Creek” to explore the area right away.
Existing areas have also been given a facelift, with new points of interest added around Louisville to make the city feel even more authentic. These include an airport and a college.
Basements and Skyscrapers for Vertical Exploration
Some buildings have been equipped with basements, while in Louisville, you can now find tall structures with dozens of floors. A prime example is the Bateman Office Building, which has 28 floors. Naturally, you’ll need to be extremely cautious of zombies here!
Enhanced Survival with a Greater Focus on the Wilderness
Even though you occasionally heard a dog barking in Build 41, there were no other creatures on the map besides you and the zombies. This changes with the update and is a first step towards NPCs, which are expected to follow in Build 43.
Farming becomes possible from B42, as you can find, breed, and utilize animals such as cows, sheep, pigs, or chickens for their resources. This drastically expands Project Zomboid’s game concept, allowing you to live in the wilderness without needing to loot locations. Many other aspects of survival have been expanded, especially in terms of hunting and fishing. The aim is for it to be more realistic and offer players the opportunity to try different playstyles.
Improved Crafting System for More Gameplay Options
Crafting has undergone a complete overhaul in Build 42 and is hardly recognizable. There are significantly more recipes and items to craft that will assist you in surviving. The system is thus more complex than before, but it also offers more gameplay options!
Additionally, sections have been added for:
- Pottery
- Blacksmithing
- Stoneworking
- Brewing Potions
- Weapon Manufacturing
Immersive Gameplay with Enhanced Music and Sounds
The developer continues to enhance immersion with each update. Musical accompaniment, background sounds, and other elements are more developed and help you become more engrossed in the game. While most players might play without in-game music, it’s definitely worth turning it on in the new update. The dynamics create exciting moments and quiet breaks after a zombie attack.
Simultaneously, your character will be less silent and has received a few voicelines with the update, which are randomly triggered during gameplay. This also aids in immersion and adds more weight to every action.
Deepened Backstory with More Lore from Knox Country
More background knowledge about the world of Project Zomboid is always welcome, and Build 42 certainly delivers more lore. A cool new feature includes new graphics that you can access, such as posters, brochures, or newspapers that open as fully-fledged windows to provide more hints for your game world. Important locations can also be marked on the map, similar to the found maps already present in the game.
Engine and Graphic Improvements for a Smoother Experience
Of course, general adjustments to the game are not to be missed. While many animations were improved for Build 41, the entire lighting system is now being revamped. Already, you can see in the game how much better light sources work and that dark places are genuinely dark. In the end, this should also lead to better performance, although PZ isn’t particularly resource-intensive. So, it’s a nice upgrade!
The UI has also received some refinements, especially for screens larger than the standard HD format. Icons are now significantly larger and can be recognized on a 4K monitor.
Release Date for Build 42: What You Should Know
This is, of course, the million-dollar question! Most PZ fans are probably waiting for an answer – but looking at previous builds doesn’t offer much hope that the update will be released in a stable state this year. There was about a three-year gap between the first unstable Build 41 and its release.
You can, of course, play Build 42 now by activating the beta version on Steam. Theoretically, you don’t have to wait for a release, but you also have to live with the risks. Unfortunately, there is no multiplayer version available yet, but it’s only a matter of time!
These risks include:
- Mod incompatibility
- Old save games are not compatible
- Bugs and glitches
- Crashes
- Loss of progress due to new unstable versions
Conclusion: Is an Upgrade to Build 42 Worth It?
Build 42 of Project Zomboid already looks like a promising update. Thanks to feedback from playtesters on Steam, the developer has many opportunities to balance innovations and improve them over time. Rent your own Project Zomboid server with us and be one of the first players to play the new update in multiplayer!
