Dead Ex

David Brin's "The Postman" has everything a good zombie tale needs - except for the zombies. Society has fallen, most comforts are in short supply, and its hammered into us again and again that the fall is the fault of human greed rather than simply an affect of the apocalyptic war.

So, how to include this kind of stuff into the game? Why should the character's be willing to risk their lives just to deliver some mail?

Well, for one, its a chance to meet others, and to get something in return. Given the lack of communication, survivors will be more than generous in their thanks.

Secondly, simply staying put isn't all that fun, indeed, one's fortress may soon seem like a prison. The same walls over and over will drive anyone nuts, even if they're covered with Van Gohs and Monets.

Might they be asked to deliver either a possible zombie antidote - or be promised a government position if they take over for an injured postman?

Or even worse - could they simply be altruistic and willing to take it upon themselves? (The road to hell is paved with good intentions...)

Then of course, there’s always the twists

• The package attracts zombies for an unknown reason
• The package repels zombies for an unknown reason, and others want it.
• Its a bioweapon meant to wipe out the zombies, and any people in an affected area, the marks just need to get it far enough away that it doesn’t blow back...
• A choice between a successful delivery of needed supplies, or rescuing another survivor.

Just some brains for thought...