DayZ is all about survival, and spawning into a persistent world full of zombies and paranoid survivors means you'll need to learn a thing or two if you want to stay alive. At the best of times, Arma II is an extremely complex game to wrap your head around, so here's 5 tips to improve your chances of survival on Chernarus.
1: Complete the Bootcamp in Arma II
So you've bought Arma: Combined Operations, downloaded all the latest DayZ files and you're rearing to go. Chances are you'll spawn into the game, have no idea how to control your character and die instantly. Do yourself a favour - boot up Arma II and complete the boot camp. Here you'll learn the basic mechanics which go a long way towards keeping yourself alive. It may seem like a bit of an inconvenience, but you'll be far better off spending those first twenty minutes learning the basics.
2: Become familiar with the HUD
Might seem like a simple step, but it is crucial. Along the right side of the screen you will notice a number of green icons that all represent extremely important elements of survival. The droplet icon will start flashing if you are wounded and signifies you are losing blood and you require a bandage post-haste. The canteen will change colour depending on how thirsty you are, and the same goes for the knife and fork in terms of hunger. Perhaps the most overlooked features for newcomers are the sight and hearing icons. Bars will indicate how easily zombies (or other players) can see or hear you, so keep that in mind when heading towards your first town.
3: Crawl through the towns
You may be ready to run gung ho when you spot your first town, but if you act like that, chances are you won't last long. As mentioned in the previous tip, zombies can hear and see you, and if they do, you'll be in a world of pain sooner rather than later. If you hit the 'z' key and crawl on your belly, unless a zombie steps on you, chances are you won't be spotted. A great tactic at the best of times, but an absolute crucial one until you find your first weapon.
4: Learn inventory management
DayZ is extremely strict when it comes to how much you can carry. Inventory is split up into three areas - body, backpack and tools. You have a limited number of spaces in each area, so you'll have to become a master at inventory management. Make sure you are carry just enough of everything, leaving enough room for sweet loot items as you progress.
5: Trust no one
It seems harsh, but it is honestly the number one rule for survival. TRUST ABSOLUTELY NO ONE. Unless you know the person well, and you are talking to them via voice chat, you simply can't take the chance. When push comes to shove, chances are they'll shove you.....with a shotgun to the face.
These five tips should help newcomers survive just a little longer in the shocking world of DayZ. Make sure you check out our discussion thread and stay tuned for our beginners wiki.
By Stephen Heller - Bio