RUST
MINIMUM:
PC - 660SE
Price - £499.99
PC - 140MS
Price - £639.99
RECOMMENDED:
PC - 100MS
Price - £784.99
PC - 130SE
Price - £1,989.99
Rust, a multiplayer survival game developed by Facepunch Studios, debuted in early access in December 2013 before its full release in February 2018. It's compatible with Windows and macOS, and versions for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One were launched in May 2021 in collaboration with Double Eleven. Initially inspired by DayZ—a popular ARMA 2 mod—and featuring crafting elements akin to Minecraft, Rust has evolved into its own unique entity.
The game challenges players to survive in the wilderness by utilizing acquired or pilfered materials while managing vital aspects like hunger, thirst, and health. Threats from aggressive animals like bears and wolves exist, but the main danger arises from other players since Rust is solely multiplayer. Combat involves firearms, bows, and occasional attacks by non-player-controlled vehicles.
Crafting plays a pivotal role, initially limited until specific items are found in the game's open world. Building bases or forming clans enhances survival chances. Raiding is a significant aspect, and modded servers offer additional content.
Throughout its development, Rust underwent substantial changes, including a shift from zombies to wildlife as the primary environmental threat and crucial alterations to the crafting system. Graphical improvements accompanied the move to the Unity 5 engine. The game also linked immutable skin color and biological sex to players' Steam account details.
Reception during Rust's alpha phase varied, often drawing comparisons to other survival games like DayZ and Minecraft. The unfinished nature of the game was frequently highlighted. Despite mixed reviews upon leaving early access, the player-versus-player combat and survival elements garnered praise, while criticisms focused on the challenging beginner experience and the necessity for resource grinding.
Post-release, Rust maintained success and earned recognition as one of the top survival games available.