Final Redoubt: Zombie Apocalypse

Developer(s): Jonathan Freeman, Sophia Girson
Publisher: Jonathan T. Freeman
Engine: Python (Pygame)
Platforms: Steam, itch.io
Initial Release: 27 January 2024 (itch.io), 28 January 2025 (Steam)
Official Site: finalredoubt.northudankton.org
Trailer: Watch on YouTube
Download: Steam | Itch.io

Overview

Final Redoubt: Zombie Apocalypse is a 2D top-down survival shooter created by Jonathan T. Freeman (alias goombjf) and Sophia Girson, developed in Python using Pygame. The game challenges players to survive wave after wave of undead enemies with minimal resources, escalating in intensity over time. Despite being free-to-play and non-commercial, it has become a cornerstone of Northudankton’s digital culture and a symbol of national pride, especially following its controversial rejection from Speedrun.com, which prompted a successful national referendum to condemn the platform.

Gameplay

Players begin each session with only 1 HP and must survive consecutive days from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with in-game time rapidly progressing (1 second = 10 minutes). Four main weapons are available: rifle (pierces enemies, but speeds up spawns), crossbow (slower but no penalty), axe (melee with area effect), and knife (fast stab, small range). A unique exhaustion mechanic punishes melee spam by increasing cooldowns.

Each day, enemies spawn faster until a “horde event” occurs. Progression introduces marauders and special events. Since Build 10, the game is winnable on Day 30 through a decision mechanic. However, no known player has survived that long.

Development

• Build 4 (Jan 2024): First public release.
• Build 6: Fixed zombie clumping exploit.
• Build 7: Improved weapon visuals; added controls screen.
• Build 8: Introduced score/multiplier system.
• Build 9: Added difficulty levels, new weapons, UI upgrades, and a unique spawn mechanic tied to rifle usage.
• Build 10 (Feb 2025): Added win condition, Day 30 events, interstitial choices, high score saving, and a visual update using 8-bit font.

Community and Speedrunning

Final Redoubt has a dedicated community with players competing in categories like "Longest Survival," "Axe%," "Pacifist Run," and "Score 1000." The game's complexity and balance have inspired deep strategy and friendly competition, even though many top players prefer to keep their records private. Notable contributors include Goombjf, Dr. Girson, Newton von Uberquie, Edison Du Bois, and Ms. Lilliana, each bringing innovation and flair to the game's evolving meta.

Now second only to Rockbowl in terms of national competitive interest, the game regularly hosts local tournaments, livestreams, and strategic discussions. Its importance in Northudankton’s cultural life cannot be overstated.

Status: Active — Most recent update: Build 10 (9 February 2025)