Walking Dead: Survival Instinct

The game allows players to play as a first-person shooter, but when zombies get too close and grapple Daryl, he can perform a brutal melee attack with various weapons as a quick time event. Many confrontations can be avoided by sneaking around. Players can also use stealth melee kills by sneaking up on walkers, which can be distracted by throwing glass bottles in a certain direction.

Each level has a main objective and several optional ones, and they are largely linear in design. Players travel between locations using a vehicle, with the option to drive fast or slow, depending on their preference. New fuel for the vehicle needs to be found regularly, which can involve completing mini-missions. The player must also manage their characters' traits, health, and equipment.

The Wii U version of the game uses the GamePad to manage inventory or play off-screen. Players can review their characters' information, equip weapons, provide tasks, and determine the risk of injury in menu screens.