Top Survival Games in 2025

Dune: Awakening

Set on the unforgiving planet of Arrakis, Dune: Awakening blends survival mechanics with MMO elements.

Players must navigate sandstorms, harvest spice, and avoid colossal sandworms. The game emphasizes base-building, resource management, and PvP combat.

While the world-building and atmosphere have been praised, some players have noted that combat mechanics feel clunky and could use refinement.

The game's success will likely hinge on how well it balances its ambitious features.

Subnautica 2

Diving back into the depths, Subnautica 2 offers a new alien ocean world to explore.

The sequel introduces co-op gameplay, allowing up to four players to explore together. Players can expect new biomes, creatures, and crafting options.

Early impressions highlight the game's immersive environment and improved mechanics.

However, some fans express concerns about the game's shorter story length, aiming for around 15 hours, and the introduction of microtransactions.

The Alters

The Alters presents a unique survival experience where players create alternate versions of themselves to survive on a hostile planet.

Each "alter" possesses different skills, aiding in tasks like base-building and exploration.

The game's narrative-driven approach has been lauded for its depth and originality.

However, some players feel that the gameplay leans heavily on dialogue and could benefit from more interactive elements.

RuneScape: Dragonwilds

A spin-off from the classic MMO, RuneScape: Dragonwilds ventures into survival territory.

Set in the continent of Ashenfall, players engage in base-building, crafting, and combat against dragons.

The game has seen a strong start, with over 600,000 copies sold and positive reviews highlighting its engaging mechanics.

Nonetheless, some players feel that the game lacks depth in its current state and hope for more content in future updates.

V Rising: Invaders of Oakveil

V Rising: Invaders of Oakveil is out now and it’s a massive step forward for the game.

It builds smartly on what V Rising already did well — from world design to progression — and adds meaningful features like the cursed forest biome, PvP duel arenas, and deeper character customization.

What really stands out in this update is how it pushes both PvE and PvP players forward. The cursed forest introduces new tactical layers with poison-based enemies and new gear, while the duel arenas finally give PvP-focused players a structured way to test their builds.

If you were already a fan of V Rising, this update makes the game feel more complete. And if you're new? There’s never been a better time to jump in.

The Forever Winter

Set in a post-apocalyptic world, The Forever Winter combines survival horror with extraction shooter mechanics.

Players scavenge resources while avoiding massive war machines. The game's unique art style, inspired by anime and dystopian themes, has garnered attention.

While the dynamic encounter system keeps gameplay fresh, some players have criticized certain mechanics, like the water system, though recent updates have addressed these concerns.

Oppidum

Aimed at a broader audience, Oppidum offers a more accessible survival experience.

With its colorful visuals and simplified mechanics, it's reminiscent of titles like The Legend of Zelda. Players can engage in crafting, farming, and exploration.

While the game has been praised for its charm and cooperative gameplay, some have pointed out issues like limited inventory space and a cumbersome travel system.

Autonomica

Autonomica stands out with its solarpunk aesthetic and ambitious blend of farming, automation, and time-travel elements.

Players can build automated farms, engage in mech battles, and even pursue romantic relationships with NPCs.

The game's Kickstarter success indicates strong interest, but some are cautious about how all these features will integrate seamlessly.

Terminator: Survivors

Set between Judgment Day and the rise of John Connor's resistance, Terminator: Survivors is an open-world survival game where players scavenge resources while evading Skynet's machines.

The game emphasizes co-op gameplay and base-building.

While the premise is intriguing, some players are concerned about the game's delayed release and hope that it delivers a polished experience upon launch.

Outward 2

Building upon its predecessor, Outward 2 offers a challenging action RPG experience with survival elements.

Players can expect improved combat mechanics, a richer world, and the ability to drop backpacks to manage weight.

While early impressions are positive, some have noted issues like unpredictable enemy movements and occasional bugs.

The developers' shift from Unity to Unreal Engine 5 suggests a commitment to enhancing the game's quality.