Mastering the Apocalypse in How to Survive

Released on October 23, 2013, How to Survive is a unique blend of survival horror, action, and RPG elements delivered through a top-down perspective. Set against the backdrop of an isolated archipelago, the game places players in the middle of a zombie outbreak that has turned a tropical paradise into a nightmare landscape. Whether you are navigating through dense foliage or scavenging through abandoned ruins, every decision counts when the undead are closing in.

A Desperate Struggle for Survival

The story begins following a shipwreck that leaves a small group of castaways stranded on a series of deserted islands. Players take control of three distinct survivors, each offering a different playstyle to help navigate the calamity:

  • Kenji: A well-rounded handyman who provides a balanced approach to combat and utility.
  • Abbie: An incredibly fast character capable of maneuvering through dangerous hordes with ease.
  • Jack: A powerful fighter designed for those who prefer direct confrontation.

As these survivors attempt to find their way back to civilization, they must contend with more than just the undead. The gameplay loop demands constant attention to biological needs; players must hunt for food, locate clean drinking water, and establish safe zones for rest. Balancing your hunger, hydration, and exhaustion levels is critical to staying alive in a world that is constantly trying to starve you out.

Deep Gameplay Mechanics and Crafting

While the game may initially resemble a classic hack-and-slash title, How to Survive offers significant depth through its resource management and progression systems. To combat the growing threat, players must scavenge the islands for materials to craft essential weapons and tools. As your characters gain experience and level up, new skills become available, allowing you to customize your approach to the apocalypse.

The combat features a 360-degree aiming system, allowing players to move and shoot simultaneously—a mechanic that provides a fighting chance against diverse enemy types ranging from slow-moving shamblers to fast, aggressive threats. However, brute force is rarely enough; smart planning and avoiding being surrounded are vital to preventing your character from becoming "afternoon snack" for the horde.

Game Modes and Features

How to Survive offers multiple ways to experience the island's dangers:

  • Story Campaign: A focused journey through the islands as you attempt to reach a rescue boat.
  • Challenge Mode: A high-stakes mode where the goal is to traverse from one side of the island to the opposite side to find escape.
  • Cooperative Play: You can team up with up to two friends to tackle the campaign or challenges together.
  • Ironman Mode: For those seeking the ultimate test of skill, this mode provides an added layer of difficulty for hardcore players.

This title is a must-play for fans of top-down action RPGs and survival horror enthusiasts who enjoy deep crafting systems and resource management. With its blend of elements reminiscent of classic arcade shooters and modern survival sims, it offers a challenging experience for those who enjoy testing their wits against the undead.

Platform Availability

How to Survive is available on a wide range of platforms, including:

  • PC
  • Xbox One
  • PlayStation 4
  • Xbox 360
  • PlayStation 3