Variable. When zombies have a supernatural or magical explanation for their existence the level of science is non-existent. However, when the explanation is scientific, the level of science can be a well researched and seemingly plausible cause. The result is a high level of real science because the cause of the outbreak scientific and so is the cure (should one be found before everyone dies).

While zombies have become a cultural icon, they are rarely the focus of a Zombie story, just the propellants of the plot. The truly interesting aspect of Zombie fiction is what happens to humanity and relationships when loved ones are turned to cannibals, when death awaits you at every corner, when the normal social order collapses. An environment such as this strips away facades and presents humanity in its most basic and gritty form—a desirable place for writers to explore grand ideas.

High. Zombie stories focus on how characters react to an extreme, world-altering catastrophe. As the story unfolds, readers can see how the personalities of characters are altered and how actions in a zombie infested world differ from a 'normal' world.

Moderate. Zombie stories have a typical plot: a zombie outbreak occurs causing panic, response from authority figures is just a bit too slow, zombisim spreads, society collapses, survivors try to stay alive on their own. This typical plot provides room for character development and the exploration of social implications.

High. Blood, guts, and brains part of Zombie fiction's scenery. Zombie stories are about death and surviving the zombie horde—expect guns, baseball bats, and anything else characters can get their hands on to be used as weapons to facilitate their own survival, not all of which may be directed at zombies.