Don't Starve

An Action Adventure game that will have you surviving as long as possible.

Don't Starve was released by Canadian game Design company Klie Entertainment through Valve's Steam distribution system April of 2013. It has since been ported to Playstation. Recently a co-operative sequel has been produced called' Don't Starve Together.' The game follows scientist Wilson as he attempts to survive as long as he can in a fairly desolate world. Other characters become available as the player progresses and gains experience. Players build items in order to aid them as well as explore to find natural resources. Wilson needs to be kept fed, sane and healthy; a task that is exceedingly hard.

Game Play

A key game mechanic in Don't Starve is a day night cycle. During the day, players are free to explore, build and prepare for the inevitable night. At night is when monsters attack. Wilson must have some sort of light source available to survive the night, as otherwise the screen goes completely black and the player is defenseless. Each day a player gains 20 experience. Items are made by crafting, finding base materials and recipes in order to build more complex things. Food is gathered by hunting or farming, and the player must be careful to maintain a constant supply as eating spoiled food or going without have serious consequences. Death is permanent and can happen in a variety of ways. monsters attacking depletes health, as does growing too hungry. As an interesting twist, a low enough sanity will result in figments of Wilson's imagination becoming real and able to attack as well. Keeping all the bars full is critical to success.

Presentation

The game is presented in a scrolling top down format with dreary color pallet and almost cut out styled character design. The result is a good looking game that presents in the same way that it plays, a visceral, challenging experience of a character trying to survive in a harsh environment. The music matches the visuals, providing a haunting and menacing overture adding much to the atmosphere of the game.

Pros

• Open world means great opportunity for re play
• Very challenging game that will result in a satisfying experience for those that manage to do well

Cons

• Permanent death is a punishing mechanic and not for everyone
• Very little in the way of story