Zombies, Run! Resurrected: A New Chapter for the Beloved Fitness App
Earlier this year, it seemed like time was up for Zombies, Run!, a popular fitness app that creatively combined couch-to-5K plans with captivating post-apocalyptic audio storytelling. However, in an uplifting turn of events, cocreator and author Naomi Alderman has announced her acquisition of the franchise, saving it from an uncertain fate.
A Brief History of Zombies, Run!
Launched in 2012, Zombies, Run! quickly gained traction, attracting around 10 million users worldwide. Developed by Six to Start, the app immerses runners and walkers in episodic storylines where the undead chase them, providing both an entertaining narrative and a compelling workout motivation. The company became known for its innovative approach to fitness gaming, even developing other immersive experiences, such as Marvel Move. In 2021, Six to Start was acquired by OliveX, adding to its portfolio of fitness-focused games.
The Shutdown Announcement
In March 2025, the landscape shifted dramatically when OliveX laid off the majority of Six to Start’s staff, indicating that the game would be discontinued unless a buyer was found. Reports suggested that creative differences between the Six to Start team and OliveX—largely concerning the app’s anticapitalist themes—led to conflicts. Additionally, attempts by OliveX owners, Animoca Brands, to pivot towards crypto and NFT integrations created further discord. As a result, Six to Start notified its user base that while the Zombies, Run! app, archive, and message boards would continue to be accessible, future episodes would be paused, leaving fans in limbo.
A Joyful Return
In a heartfelt announcement posted on the Zombies, Run! website, Alderman expressed her excitement about regaining ownership of the franchise. “I am incredibly delighted to be taking ownership of the game,” she stated. “This isn’t a big corporate takeover; it’s me buying back the game I made and love so I can look after it.” This sentiment resonates with the app’s community, underscoring her commitment to maintaining the spirit and quality of the game.
New Storylines and Future Plans
Alderman revealed that she is already working on a new storyline for the app, designed to welcome new players while enticing former users to return. “We’ll also resume production on Season 11, which was paused halfway through,” she confirmed in a conversation with The Verge, referring to the unresolved cliffhanger that has left fans eagerly waiting.
Maintaining the Legacy
While Alderman has regained the Zombies, Run! franchise, she clarified that she has not purchased Six to Start in its entirety. In addition to Zombies, Run!, she also acquired The Walk, another immersive fitness game she developed. She indicated that Marvel Move was in the process of being phased out, but that support would continue until the last annual subscription concludes in July next year.
As she looks ahead, Alderman emphasizes preserving the app and enriching the user experience. She plans to engage with the community in the coming weeks for further updates. “Zombies, Run! has been a community effort since the first Kickstarter, and we’ll keep it shambling on together,” she assured fans, promising to reignite the spark that made Zombies, Run! a beloved part of the fitness app landscape.
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Image Credit: www.theverge.com
