Decoding the Retro Horror Roots: What Inspired Zombies in Spaceland?
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Zombies in Spaceland, the cooperative Zombies map from Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare, is a vibrant love letter to 1980s horror films and amusement park culture. Its core inspiration lies in the classic slasher flicks, sci-fi horror movies, and the overall aesthetic of that era, blended with the unique twist of a fictional horror movie director trapping actors in his deadly film. This nostalgic combination creates a truly unforgettable and distinct Zombies experience.
A Trip Back to the Decade of Excess
The 1980s Horror Movie Influence
The most significant influence on Zombies in Spaceland is undoubtedly the horror movie genre of the 1980s. From the neon-drenched color palettes to the over-the-top gore and campy humor, every element screams ’80s horror. Movies like “Friday the 13th,” “A Nightmare on Elm Street,” and “Evil Dead” served as visual and thematic touchstones. The map’s setting, an abandoned amusement park, mirrors the often-isolated and vulnerable locations found in these films. The hordes of zombies themselves are a nod to classic zombie movies like “Day of the Dead.”
The Amusement Park Setting: A Playground of Fear
The decision to set Zombies in Spaceland within an abandoned amusement park adds another layer of inspiration. These parks, once symbols of carefree joy, become sinister and unsettling when deserted and overrun with the undead. The juxtaposition of childhood nostalgia with gruesome horror amplifies the sense of dread and creates a truly unique atmosphere. Furthermore, the park’s various zones, each themed differently, offer a diverse range of environments for players to explore and survive.
Willard Wyler: The Master of Mayhem
The character of Willard Wyler, the deranged horror movie director, is a critical piece of the puzzle. He represents the meta-narrative of being trapped within a horror film. Wyler, voiced and modeled after Paul Reubens (Pee-wee Herman), is the puppet master pulling the strings, forcing the protagonists to play out his twisted vision. This element directly references classic horror movie tropes, where characters often find themselves unwittingly drawn into horrifying situations.
David Hasselhoff: The 80’s Icon
The inclusion of David Hasselhoff as a playable character and a key figure in the map is a direct homage to the ’80s. Hasselhoff, famous for his roles in “Knight Rider” and “Baywatch,” embodies the decade’s iconic action heroes. His presence adds another layer of campy fun and nostalgia to the Zombies in Spaceland experience. He’s more than just a cameo; he’s an integral part of the story and gameplay.
Musical Score
The music of Zombies in Spaceland plays an important role in establishing the atmosphere of the 1980s. The songs and themes draw inspiration from a variety of popular 1980s musical genres, from synth-pop to hair metal. This contributes significantly to the overall retro aesthetic of the map.
Unpacking the Inspiration: Deeper Dive
The inspiration behind Zombies in Spaceland wasn’t just about replicating the visual style and atmosphere of the 1980s. It was also about capturing the spirit of that era’s horror films. This meant embracing the campiness, the over-the-top special effects, and the often-absurd situations that defined the genre. The developers at Infinity Ward clearly had a deep affection for these movies and wanted to create a Zombies experience that paid tribute to them in a fun and engaging way. It’s this attention to detail and genuine love for the source material that makes Zombies in Spaceland such a memorable and beloved entry in the Call of Duty Zombies series.
The success of Zombies in Spaceland can also be attributed to its ability to tap into a sense of nostalgia for players who grew up in the 1980s. For these players, the map is more than just a game; it’s a trip back to their childhood, a chance to relive the thrills and chills of the horror movies they loved. However, its universal themes of friendship, survival, and overcoming seemingly impossible odds make it accessible and enjoyable for players of all ages. Exploring the connections between video games and learning? Visit the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org for insights.
Zombies in Spaceland FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered
1. Who created Zombies in Spaceland?
Zombies in Spaceland was created by Infinity Ward, with Lee Ross serving as the senior producer and one of the key creative minds behind the project.
2. When was Zombies in Spaceland released?
Zombies in Spaceland was released on November 4th, 2016, as part of Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare.
3. Is Zombies in Spaceland considered canon within the Call of Duty Zombies storyline?
No, Zombies in Spaceland is not considered canon to the main Treyarch-developed Zombies storyline. It exists within its own separate universe. Zombies content is only considered canon in its own universe.
4. What is the primary goal in Zombies in Spaceland?
Like other Zombies maps, a primary goal is turning on the power. However, Zombies in Spaceland requires activating multiple power switches instead of just one.
5. Who is Willard Wyler in Zombies in Spaceland?
Willard Wyler is the antagonist of Zombies in Spaceland. He’s a deranged horror movie director who traps the four protagonists in his deadly film.
6. Can you play as Willard Wyler in Zombies in Spaceland?
Yes, Willard Wyler becomes a playable character once the player has completed all of the easter eggs in the game in Director’s Cut and defeat Mephistopheles at the end of the Director’s Cut version of The Beast from Beyond.
7. Who is the celebrity character in Zombies in Spaceland?
The celebrity character in Zombies in Spaceland is David Hasselhoff, who also acts as the Spaceland DJ.
8. What is David Hasselhoff’s role in Zombies in Spaceland?
David Hasselhoff acts as a helpful character and a DJ in the map. He provides assistance to the players and can eventually be unlocked as a playable character.
9. What is the code to unlock David Hasselhoff as a playable character?
After completing the main easter egg, enter the following code in the pre-game lobby of Zombies in Spaceland: Left, Right, Left, Up, Down.
10. What is the main Easter egg in Zombies in Spaceland?
The main Easter egg involves finding the Soul Key, opening the Pack-A-Punch room, and collecting all the pieces for the SETI-COM to give to Hasselhoff.
11. What are Candy Perks in Zombies in Spaceland?
Candy Perks are a unique feature in Zombies in Spaceland that provide temporary buffs and abilities to players.
12. Are there Wonder Weapons in Zombies in Spaceland?
Yes, Zombies in Spaceland features several Wonder Weapons, including the Forge Freeze Gun.
13. How does Zombies in Spaceland refer to the waves of zombies?
In Zombies in Spaceland, the waves of zombies are referred to as ‘Scenes’, further emphasizing the movie theme.
14. What are the new features of Zombies in Spaceland?
Zombies in Spaceland introduced Candy Perks, Fate and Fortune Cards, and new Wonder Weapons.
15. What is the retro 80s version of zombies mode?
The retro 80s version of zombies mode is from Call of Duty: Infinite Warfare and it’s Zombies in Spaceland.