After four years in Early Access, Deadside has finally hit its full release, and it’s making waves in the survival game community. Developed by Bad Pixel, the game blends elements of hardcore survival, tactical combat, and open-world exploration. If you’ve been itching for a challenging and gritty survival experience, here’s everything you need to know about Deadside and why it’s worth a shot.
What Is Deadside About?
At its core, Deadside is a multiplayer survival game set in a bleak, post-apocalyptic world. You step into the boots of a survivor with one goal: stay alive. Easier said than done when every step outside a safe zone risks encounters with AI bandits, deadly wildlife, and other players just as desperate for resources as you are.
The gameplay revolves around exploration, scavenging, and crafting. You’ll roam vast, atmospheric landscapes filled with dense forests, abandoned settlements, and hidden dangers. Your tasks? Gather loot, build a secure base, and complete missions to gain gear and currency. Combat is intense and realistic, with an emphasis on tactical gunplay and survival mechanics.
What Makes Deadside Unique?
Deadside doesn’t aim to reinvent the wheel but instead polishes familiar survival game mechanics. Think of it as a blend of DayZ and Rust, but with its own hardcore twist. Here’s what sets it apart:
- Diverse Server Modes: You can choose between PvE, PvP, and PvP without base raids. This caters to both casual players and those hungry for high-stakes conflict.
- Realistic Combat: The gunplay is satisfying, with detailed ballistics and 32 customizable firearms. Every shot feels weighty and demands precision.
- AI and Player Tension: Missions pit you against relentless AI foes while the ever-present threat of ambushes from real players keeps you on edge.
Official Trailer
What’s Changed Since Early Access?
The jump to version 1.0 brings a slew of improvements, reflecting four years of feedback from a dedicated player base:
- Optimized Performance: Many players complained about lag and stability during Early Access. These issues have been largely addressed in the full release, making gameplay smoother.
- Expanded Features: New weapons, vehicles, and quality-of-life updates have been added, like better crafting menus and inventory management.
- Customizable Experience: Updates now allow for more flexible base-building and refined server options, catering to various playstyles.
- Polished AI: Enemy AI has become smarter, making missions more dynamic and challenging.
Gameplay Tips for Beginners
If you’re jumping into Deadside for the first time, here are a few survival tips:
- Stock Up: Always carry food, water, bandages, and ammo. Supplies are scarce, and running out mid-mission can be fatal.
- Squad Up: The game’s brutal difficulty makes teamwork essential. Squad members can help cover you in missions or fend off unexpected ambushes.
- Base Smart: Build your base in hidden locations to avoid raids. Choose a PvE server if you want to skip this headache entirely.
- Beware of Missions: Missions are a great way to earn loot, but they’re also hotspots for player encounters. Always scout the area before diving in.
Community Feedback
Player reception has been mostly positive, with an 80% “Very Positive” rating on Steam since its launch. Fans praise its realism and tension-filled gameplay. However, some still point out issues with its inventory system and occasional bugs. The developers have promised ongoing updates, reassuring the community that this is just the beginning for Deadside’s post-launch journey.
Should You Play It?
If you’re a fan of hardcore survival games where every decision matters, Deadside is worth your time. It offers a gritty and immersive experience, whether you prefer tense solo exploration or tactical squad-based missions.
So, grab your gear, pick your squad, and dive into the unforgiving world of Deadside. Just remember: trust no one, and keep your trigger finger ready.