The House of the Dead 4

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The House of the Dead 4 is a light gun arcade shooter by Sega, the fourth game in the House of the Dead series. It takes place between The House of the Dead 2 and The House of the Dead III. Players can choose James Taylor (returning) or Kate Green (a new character). A PlayStation 3 version with Move support was released in 2012, including two stages from The House of the Dead 4 Special.

Gameplay and features
- Weapons: You use a submachine gun that fires automatically. Reload by shaking the gun or pointing away from the screen. You can also throw grenades to wipe out groups of enemies.
- Boss and combat: The game uses branching paths, end-of-stage bonuses, and a Cancel/critical shots system that ranks your accuracy from Good to Perfect. You’re encouraged to shoot weak points; mistakes or taking hits can lower your score.
- Enemies: Common foes have three attacks—normal, grab, and push. Grabs can be shaken off; pushes push you back and can lead to bites. Large groups of zombies can overwhelm players.
- Extras: Instead of rescuing hostages for lives, life pickups appear in the environment.

Story
In a post-earthquake Europe, veteran agent James Taylor returns with rookie Kate Green. They uncover a plan to launch nuclear missiles within 24 hours and battle through the zombie-infested city to stop it. They face powerful foes, including a cryokinetic insectoid called The World. James sacrifices himself to destroy The World, leaving Kate to carry on. The game has four endings based on performance, and its events connect to The House of the Dead III.

The House of the Dead 4 Special
This is a two-player arcade ride version with two large screens, vibrating seats, wind effects, and a life-bar system (no continues). A PS3 version unlockable by completing The House of the Dead 4 includes a side story where Kate teams up with Agent G to defeat The Magician, with two endings depending on outcomes in the mode.

Reception
The arcade game was praised for its impressive visuals, lighting, large crowds of zombies, and the new shaking mechanic and gun features.