Oh side note I was wearing the hoxton mask if that matters.

I understand this is a similar issue but the issue with the apartments area not to do with stairs its seems like some areas they path under the ground. As in I was outside the hospital moving to the school heard zombies but couldn't see any. So this wasn't a stairs issue this seemed like they were clipping underground. eventually I left the main loot area I was swarmed.

I Agree and disagree with this. Yes its unfair use of gamma to do this and should be disabled but the darkness for me at least is unreal. I log onto a server and literally cant see an inch in front of me. I live in a rural area if I look out the window I can make out stuff still. You should be able to navigate at night without a light somewhat decently but looting items or being a building be forced to use the light.

This is the same issue as pitch black night... yes people can see around corners but if you are looking for realism there are plenty of ways to see around a corner easily or beyond a wall. You find a hole or carefully look around the corner or even use something reflective not an option in a game. Same thing if you look at pure darkness night yes very dark is more real but you don't have a sense of touch. The fact is we are playing a game you have very minimal senses while playing small advantages are needed to help.