State of Decay: Year-One Survival Edition is the first release of the game for the Xbox One platform and a compilation release for the PC, containing the base game and three DLCs. The story follows a survivor in a world overrun by zombies. The player must manage their community, gather resources, and fend off hordes of undead to stay alive. As the player progresses, they can unlock new characters, including Kelly 'Sasquatch' Eldridge from Lifeline , and participate in new missions.
The gameplay involves exploring a vast open world, scavenging for supplies, and building alliances with other survivors. The game features improved graphics and animations, as well as new mechanics such as incendiary rounds for shotguns and under-barrel grenade launcher attachments for assault rifles. Players can also customize their vehicles and unlock new melee weapons.
The Xbox One version includes timed community challenges and achievements, while PC owners of the original game can upgrade to this edition with a 33% discount.