I have an idea....

I want a zombie invasion game in Alton Baker Park next weekend sometime.

Initially, I thought that it could be one infected versus everyone else in a big tag match until the survivor's reigned supreme over a period of a certain amount of time.

I also asked Perplexity to come up with some ideas and this is what they came up with:

To play a zombie invasion game with a huge group in a park, you can adapt several proven game formats designed for large, active groups. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on established youth group and party game versions:

1. Choose Your Game Format Option A: Zombie Apocalypse Tag (Best for Large Groups)

Divide players into three teams: Zombies, Survivors, and Helpers.

Objective: Survivors must return to a starting point without being tagged by Zombies.

Gameplay:

Start with Survivors hiding somewhere in the park.

After 1 minute, Zombies are released to hunt for Survivors.

After another minute, Helpers are released. Helpers can escort Survivors back to the starting point and shield them from Zombies (Zombies cannot tag Helpers).

If a Survivor is tagged, they become a Zombie.

The game ends when all Survivors are caught or have returned safely.

Tips:

Have more Zombies than Survivors or Helpers for balance.

Enforce a no-tackling rule for safety.

Works best with a large group and wide, open space.

Option B: Scavenger Hunt Survival

Objective: Humans must collect hidden items (e.g., first aid kit, water jug, “ammo crate,” Twinkies) and return them to a base without being tagged by Zombies.

Gameplay:

Hide objects around the park.

Assign a few players as Zombies; the rest are Humans.

If a Human is tagged, they become a Zombie.

Optional: Use Nerf guns or socks as “defense” items for Humans to temporarily stun Zombies.

Option C: Classic Infection Tag

Start with one Zombie; everyone else is Human.

When a Human is tagged, they become a Zombie.

Game continues until only one Human remains, who is the winner.

This format is simple and scales well for very large groups.

2. Setup and Materials Running shoes and comfortable clothes for all players.

Bandanas, colored shirts, or face paint to distinguish teams.

Optional props: Nerf guns, socks (as safe “weapons”), or scavenger hunt items.

A defined play area: Mark boundaries clearly to keep everyone safe and within sight.

3. Safety and Rules No physical tackling or rough contact. Tagging should be gentle.

Set clear boundaries and have adult supervision if kids are playing.

Establish safe zones if needed (e.g., a base where no one can be tagged).

Have a first aid kit on hand for minor scrapes.

4. Game Flow Example (Zombie Apocalypse Tag) Assign roles and explain rules.

Survivors hide; Zombies and Helpers wait at the starting point.

Zombies released after 1 minute; Helpers after 2 minutes.

Survivors try to return to the start, avoiding Zombies.

Tagged Survivors join the Zombies.

Game ends when all Survivors are caught or reach the start.

5. Tips for a Fun Experience Rotate roles so everyone gets a chance to be a Survivor, Zombie, and Helper.

Keep rounds short (15–30 minutes) to maintain energy and excitement.

Encourage teamwork among Survivors and creative strategies for both sides.

Summary: A zombie invasion game in a park with a large group is best played using a tag or infection-style format, optionally enhanced with scavenger hunt elements or team roles. Focus on safety, clear rules, and active participation for maximum fun.

Thoughts?