GET YOUR BEARINGS
Plan your next THE DEAD WE KNEW: Open World Survival session
Our independent guide examines The Dead We Knew's core systems—shelter construction, environmental hazards, cooperative play, nutrition, and difficulty settings—so you can observe each element and decide how they fit your preferred approach without assuming hidden mechanics.
01 / THE GUIDE
Shelter Location Comparison
Build a cabin near the forest edge and another in an open field. Record travel time to resources and exposure to weather, then note which location offers a better balance of safety and accessibility.
- Prioritize gathering sturdy materials early for future reinforcement.
- Place crafting stations close to storage to streamline item creation.
02 / THE GUIDE
Fog Timing Log
Track the start and end times of fog each day, noting how quickly visibility drops. Compare these patterns to decide when to focus on gathering versus fortifying the shelter.
- Gather resources during clear daylight before fog appears.
- Keep a fire or light source ready for foggy periods.

03 / THE GUIDE
Co‑op Role Rotation
In a four‑player session, rotate roles—gatherer, builder, hunter, scout—each round. Observe how role changes affect overall efficiency compared to a static role assignment.
- Communicate weather changes so the team can prepare together.
- Divide tasks like scouting, building, and hunting to cover more ground.
04 / THE GUIDE
Hunting vs. Farming Food Sources
Spend several days relying primarily on hunted deer meat, then switch to meals made from cultivated tomatoes. Record any noticeable differences in how often you need to rest or gather more supplies.
- Balance hunting trips with time spent tending crops.
- Cook meat over fire to make it safe for consumption.
05 / THE GUIDE
Difficulty Impact Survey
Play the same segment on two difficulty settings. Note any changes in zombie behavior, resource availability, or time needed to complete tasks, then decide which setting aligns with your desired challenge.
- Start on a lower difficulty to learn core systems before increasing the challenge.
- Adjust audio settings to better hear distant zombie cues.




