Directed survival

Types of directed survival

In real life, directed survival is a situation where an individual or a group finds themselves in a life-threatening situation, and with the help of some factors, they are able to survive. The types of directed survival games are as follows:

• Character-driven scenario

  In this kind of scenario, the player is given a character with a backstory that has a very specific requirement for survival. The character's skills, knowledge, or relationships are the ones that directed the survival of the character. This scenario is based on the character's story. For example, in The Walking Dead games, the player is given a character whose relationships and interactions with other characters are important to survival.

• Resource management

  This type of survival game focuses on limited resources that need to be managed so that the character can survive in a hostile environment. The players are required to make decisions about how to allocate resources so that the character can live. In Fallout: New Vegas, players manage resources like food, water, and ammunition to survive.

• Dynamic environment

  In this scenario, the environment is constantly changing, and new threats and challenges are introduced. The player must adapt quickly so that they can remain alive. An example is in Don't Starve, where the game features unpredictable seasons and various monsters that require the player to adapt constantly.

• Crafting systems

  This is a complex game where the player can create new items or tools that will help them manage resources and weapons. An example is in Rust, where players gather materials to craft weapons, shelters, and tools.

• Story-driven scenarios

  These scenarios are similar to character-driven scenarios in that they focus more on the story. The player is given multiple choices that affect the outcome of the game. These choices are essential for the character's survival. An example is in Life is Strange, where the story and character's survival are based on the choices made by the player.

• Psychological elements

  This scenario adds some psychological elements to the game that affect the player's survival. These elements create fear, anxiety, and other emotions that affect the gameplay. An example is in Silent Hill where the characters' mental state affects their survival.

Scenario of Directed Survival

Directed survival games are not limited to just one category. They offer lots of opportunities and possibilities. Here are some of the application scenarios.

• Entertainment Industry

  In the entertainment industry, directed survival games can be used to create engaging and interactive experiences for players. The game enables players to feel in control of the game's storyline, which makes them emotionally connected.

• Military Training

  Military training can benefit from directed survival games. It allows soldiers to simulate decision-making and strategizing under high stress. This will help improve their skills in real-life scenarios.

• Corporate Training

  These games can also be used in corporate training. Employees can go through crisis management and leadership exercises. This will build their ability to make choices that will positively affect the outcome of their organizations.

• Education

  Directed survival games can be used in education too. It enables students to learn in a more interactive way by participating in history, science and other subjects. They will understand the subject better through practical application and simulated situations.

• Therapeutic Settings

  In therapeutic settings, directed survival games can help individuals develop coping skills, self-efficacy, and resilience in the face of challenges. The game provides a safe space for players to navigate through difficult emotions and experiences.

• Social Commentary

  These games can also be used for social commentary. It allows players to experience the tribulations of society, politics and economy. This will make them more aware and sensitive to the real-world issues at stake.

How to Choose Directed Survival

Choosing the right directed survival game requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure an engaging and satisfying gaming experience. Here are the key factors to consider:

• Look for games with robust character development systems: In directed survival games, players can often customize and develop their characters. Look for games that offer deep and meaningful character development options, including skill trees, abilities, and traits. This adds a layer of complexity and replayability as players can shape their characters to suit their playstyle.
• Check the game's narrative and storyline: The game's narrative can greatly influence the player's experience. Look for directed survival games that have a well-crafted story with engaging plot twists, character development, and immersive lore. A strong narrative can provide motivation and emotional investment, making the gameplay more compelling.
• Evaluate the game's environments and settings: The game’s environment can affect gameplay and exploration. Consider games that offer diverse and dynamic environments, from desolate wastelands to densely populated cities. These settings should provide opportunities for exploration, discovery, and strategic resource management.
• Examine the game's artificial intelligence (AI): The AI of both enemies and non-playable characters (NPCs) can significantly impact the game's difficulty and experience. Look for games with advanced AI that can adapt to the player's actions, providing a challenging yet fair gameplay experience. Intelligent NPCs can also enhance the survival aspect by providing realistic interactions and relationships.
• Research the game's graphics and audio quality: High-quality graphics and immersive audio can enhance the game's atmosphere and tension. Check for directed survival games with realistic visuals, detailed environments, and impactful sound design. A visually and audibly stunning game can create a more immersive and terrifying experience.
• Consider the game's modding community and support: Some directed survival games offer extensive modding tools and community support. This allows players to create and share custom content, including new scenarios, characters, and gameplay mechanics. Consider games with active modding communities, as this can significantly extend the game's lifespan and provide additional content and variety.

Features, Functions, and Design of Directed Survival(Combined)

Directed survival games have features, functions, and designs that incorporate elements from various game genres to provide a unique gaming experience. Here are some features, functions, and design elements:

• Crafting and Building

  Crafting and building systems let players create tools, weapons, and shelter using materials and resources. This encourages creativity and resource management. Additionally, players can modify their surroundings or create bases to improve their protection and functionality.

• Resource Management

  Players in resource management games collect and manage essential resources like food, water, and materials. This requires them to make tactical choices to ensure their survival and the growth of their in-game character or community.

• Quest and Mission System

  These games have a blend of main and side quests that provide players with objectives. Direct missions are intended to advance the plot, while optional ones allow for exploration and additional rewards. Players gain experience, resources, and narrative depth by completing these quests.

• Strategic Combat

  In directed survival games, players participate in strategic combat against hostile creatures or other players. To defeat enemies, they must use weapons, traps, and tactical planning. Combat systems usually feature weapon customization and skill progression.

• Dynamic Environments

  Dynamic environments are those that change in response to the player's actions or predetermined triggers. This can include weather systems, day-night cycles, and interactive elements. These factors increase the game's complexity by creating new challenges and opportunities for players.

• Narrative Depth

  Directed survival games contain narrative depth through environmental storytelling and character development. Players uncover the backstory and motives of characters as they progress in the game. This adds emotional engagement and context to their survival efforts.

• Cooperative and Competitive Multiplayer

  Some directed survival games provide cooperative and competitive multiplayer modes. Players can work together to survive, share resources, and complete quests or compete against each other for limited resources. This adds another level of complexity and interaction to the game.

Q&A

Q1: What are the advantages of directed survival over traditional survival games?

A1: Directed survival offers a more structured experience with clear objectives. This can enhance player engagement and provide a sense of purpose. The narrative-driven approach allows players to experience rich storytelling, leading to emotional investment and deeper gameplay. Moreover, the guided elements of directed survival can help players who are less experienced in survival games.

Q2: Can the settings of directed survival games affect their gameplay?

A2: Yes, the setting in directed survival games can greatly affect gameplay. Different environments can present unique challenges and resources. For example, a game set in a dense forest may have more materials for shelter building, whereas an arid desert setting may have scarce resources but different survival challenges.

Q3: Are there multiplayer elements in directed survival games?

A3: While directed survival games can be single-player or multiplayer, the multiplayer aspect allows players to collaborate and compete with others. This can introduce new dynamics to resource gathering, combat, and completing directed objectives. In multiplayer mode, players can share their strengths and work together to face challenges.

Q4: How do developers ensure that the objectives in directed survival games are clear?

A4: Developers usually use visual cues, such as highlighted areas or markers, to make the objectives clear. They also incorporate detailed logs and prompts that outline the tasks. Additionally, the objectives are usually integrated into the game's narrative, which helps in providing clarity.

Q5: Can directed survival games have different endings?

A5: Yes, directed survival games can have different endings based on the choices players make. These games feature branching narratives where players' decisions can lead to various outcomes. This adds to the replayability of the game. In such games, players need to pay attention to the story and their actions to achieve their preferred ending.