Article Key Points
Many survival games lack depth and engagement in their building systems, which can be disappointing for players who enjoy customizing their habitats.
In desolate worlds, games that prioritize complex and carefully designed building systems empower players to construct stunning and practical structures. Crucially shaping gameplay and providing strategic edge, building mechanics in games such as Fortnite, Terraria, and 7 Days to Die enable players to erect fortresses and battlefields for defense against adversaries.
In the survival genre, games often prioritize combat, crafting, exploring, and gathering, overshadowing the building process. This can be disappointing for players who derive satisfaction from meticulously designing and decorating their living spaces. However, there are games that have invested effort in developing complex and well-designed building systems. These games provide players with the freedom to create aesthetically pleasing and functional structures, even in barren environments.
8. Fortnite
Fortnite
Platform(s) PC, iOS, Mobile, Xbox One, Android, PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, SwitchReleased July 25, 2017Developer(s) Epic GamesGenre(s) Survival, Battle Royale
Currently, only a few are aware that Fortnite, which is incredibly popular, was not originally intended to be the game it is now. Initially, it was designed as a cooperative survival game with elements of tower defense and exploration. Eventually, the creators decided to switch gears and adopt the free-to-play model that it is now recognized for.
Nevertheless, Fortnite's distinctive and highly effective building mechanism has always been one of its strongest selling points, setting it apart from the numerous battle royale games available today. This building system has proven to be so user-friendly that many players now employ it aggressively during intense battles.
7. Terraria
Terraria is a multi-platform game available on PC, PS3, PS4, PS5, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, Switch, Vita, iOS, Android, macOS, Linux, 3DS, and Stadia. It was released on May 16, 2011, and developed by Re-Logic. The game falls under the genre of action, adventure, and sandbox.
Terraria, a 2D action-adventure game, places significant importance on base construction, offering players a wide array of tools to personalize and mold their habitats. With diverse elements such as blocks, mechanisms, backgrounds, and light sources, players are granted ample room for their creative imaginations to soar.
Moreover, building serves as a vital factor for non-playable characters (NPCs) within the game. Each new shopkeeper necessitates their own room, surpassing the need for a mere cavernous opening. Additionally, players have the ability to devise highly functional battlegrounds that aid them in combatting formidable bosses and monsters.
6. 7 Days To Die
7 Days to Die
Platform(s) PC, PS4, Xbox OneReleased December 13, 2013Developer(s) The Fun PimpsGenre(s) Survival, Horror
Players of this zombie survival game are given numerous choices for preparing themselves in the first six days of the week, and are then put to the test on the seventh. During the so-called Blood Moon, hordes of zombies aggressively attack the players. It is during this time that the complex building system becomes extremely advantageous for those who have made good use of it. With the ability to create moats, barricades, vantage points, sniper towers, and more, players can construct their ideal fortress that is resistant to zombie attacks.
5. V Rising
V Rising
Platform(s) PCReleased May 17, 2022Developer(s) Stunlock StudiosGenre(s) MMORPG, Survival
Vampire castles have long captivated individuals with tales of hidden treasures, intricate mazes, and secret chambers housing terrifying creatures. With V Rising, players can now fully customize their shadowy hideout, determining the design and contents of the numerous rooms.
Building a vampire base offers various approaches, with players encouraged to prioritize their preferred playstyle and consider whether they engage in player versus player (PvP) or player versus environment (PvE) gameplay, as this can significantly impact defense strategies and priorities. Regardless, creating an elaborate lair that only the creator can navigate is undeniably enjoyable and immensely satisfying.
4. Valheim
Valheim
Platform(s) Linux, PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series SReleased February 2, 2021Developer(s) Iron Gate ABGenre(s) Sandbox, Survival See at Steam
Valheim is an exceptional Viking survival game that offers a refreshing twist on the traditional formula. With captivating boss battles and distinctive creatures roaming the world, players will have plenty to keep them engaged. Moreover, the game also allows for extensive exploration and the collection of materials that can be transformed into unique home décor. One remarkable aspect of Valheim is its ability to accurately portray the Viking building style and architecture. Regardless of what players create, the iconic arches and dragonheads will always be present, lending an authentic touch. Additionally, the game boasts a solid physics system for building, requiring players to carefully consider the weight of their desired features and construct their extraordinary foundations accordingly.
3. Subnautica: Below Zero
Subnautica: Below Zero
Platform(s) PC, PS4, PS5, Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series SReleased January 30, 2019Developer(s) Unknown Worlds EntertainmentGenre(s) Survival, Open-World
In the Subnautica series, which takes place on an underwater alien planet, the base building aspect of the game is surprisingly extensive. Aside from the essential buildings used for transportation upkeep and creation, players have numerous opportunities to personalize and customize their bases.
They can create fish pools, cultivate plants, and install shelves to display cherished mementos, resulting in a base that truly feels like a cozy home. The fact that almost all of these building options are nonessential makes it even more heartwarming to witness the level of detail and commitment to a secondary aspect of the game.
2. Rust
Rust
Platform(s) macOS, PC, PS4, Xbox OneReleased February 8, 2018Developer(s) Facepunch StudiosGenre(s) Survival
Rust remains highly popular on Steam due to several compelling reasons. The gunplay offers a satisfying and authentic experience, while the crafting system is extensive and well-thought-out. Additionally, the social dynamics within the game present limitless possibilities for both positive and negative interactions.
Nonetheless, the building aspect of the game deserves greater recognition. Players who invest time and effort into constructing their bases are rewarded with various systems and options. These include electricity lines, mechanical traps, barred windows, and sturdy metal doors, allowing for endless possibilities when creating a fortified stronghold. Throughout the game's existence, players have developed numerous effective building techniques, honing their skills in both base-building and base-raiding.
1. Fallout 4
Fallout 4
Platform(s) PS4, Xbox One, PCReleased November 10, 2015Developer(s) BethesdaGenre(s) RPG, Action
Fallout 4 may not initially come to mind when thinking about construction, but this game offers numerous exciting surprises for those who are interested. Through the Minutemen route, players are presented with the incredible level of freedom when it comes to building houses and even entire settlements.
Although it may not appeal to everyone, the game provides a remarkable level of depth in its building and crafting mechanics, allowing players to truly enhance and enlarge their living spaces. Whether it's creating simple yet functional villages or constructing enormous towers and formidable fortresses, players have the opportunity to breathe life and wonder into the barren post-apocalyptic wasteland.
Editor's P/S
These three games, Fortnite, Terraria, and 7 Days to Die, showcase the potential of building mechanics in action-packed gameplay. Each game offers a unique take on building, allowing players to construct impressive and practical structures that enhance their gameplay experience.
In Fortnite, the building mechanic is an integral part of the battle royale gameplay, allowing players to quickly build cover and fortifications to gain an advantage over their opponents. In Terraria, building is a key aspect of the sandbox gameplay, allowing players to create elaborate structures and bases to protect themselves from enemies and the environment. In 7 Days to Die, the building mechanic is essential for survival, allowing players to construct fortifications and traps to defend themselves from the hordes of zombies that attack during the Blood Moon.
Overall, these games demonstrate that building mechanics can add depth and engagement to a variety of game genres, and can provide players with a satisfying and rewarding experience.