Several criticisms were aimed at the limited level selection and the lack of a narrative. Left 4 Dead was well received by the industry media upon its release, with praise given for its replay value, focus on cooperative play, and movie-like experience.

In all modes, an artificial intelligence dubbed the ' Director' controls level pacing and item placements in an attempt to create a dynamic experience and increase replay value. There are four game modes: a single-player mode in which allied characters are controlled by AI, a four-player co-op campaign mode, an eight-player online versus mode and a four-player survival mode. Set during the aftermath of a zombie outbreak on the East Coast, the game puts its four protagonists-dubbed the 'Survivors'-against hordes of the infected. The digital retail disc version was released in North America and Australia on November 18, 2008, and in Europe on November 21, 2008. Development on the game was completed on November 13, 2008, and two versions were released digitally: A downloadable digital version, released on November 17, 2008, and a digital retail disc version, with a release date determined by region.

The game uses Valve's proprietary Source engine, and is available for Microsoft Windows, Xbox 360 and Mac OS X. Left 4 Dead is a 2008 multiplayer survival horror game developed by Valve South and published by Valve.

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