Survival games are really popular because they’re rewarding – you start with almost nothing and work your way up by collecting resources and improving your skills to stay alive. There are tons of different versions out there, with some featuring dinosaurs, zombies, and all sorts of other challenges. However, all that can make these games a little overwhelming for people who are just starting out.
Starting with survival games can be tough because there are so many choices! Whether you prefer playing with friends or going it alone, it’s hard to know where to begin. I’ve put together a list of some easy-to-learn survival games, so you can enjoy building and crafting without feeling overwhelmed.
5) Terraria
Platform(s): PC, PS4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, iOS
Price: $9.99
Terraria is a beloved game, and it’s easy to see why. Originally released in 2011, this pixel-art, open-world survival game is still hugely popular. In Terraria, you’re dropped into a sandbox world where you can explore, build, and discover hidden secrets. The game offers a lot of freedom, which can be helpful or overwhelming for new players. Even though it’s been around for a while, Terraria continues to receive updates, with another one planned for January 2026.
Many players first discovered the survival game genre through Terraria. It’s a classic title and a good way to see if survival games are something you’d enjoy. However, new players sometimes find Terraria a little confusing or challenging. Luckily, the in-game guide NPC can offer helpful advice, and the game’s diverse features cover most of the essential survival game mechanics. Terraria is also fun to play with friends, so experienced players can help newcomers learn. If you’re just starting out, choose the classic, normal difficulty setting and take your time exploring!
4) Grounded
Platform(s): PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch
Price: $39.99
Inspired by the movie Honey, I Shrunk the Kids, this survival game puts you in the role of someone shrunken down to the size of an ant. You’ll need to survive the dangers of an ordinary backyard while uncovering the mystery of how you became so small. Grounded is a popular and accessible entry point into the survival game genre.
Players often find Grounded a good starting point for survival games because it lets you progress at your own speed. Like other games in the genre, it has difficulty settings, making it very accessible for newcomers. However, some players are surprised by how challenging it can be despite its appealing, cartoonish style. While Grounded is beginner-friendly, other games might be even easier to pick up.
3) Among Trees
Platform(s): PC
Price: $14.99
As you might guess from the title, Among Trees is a survival game where you’re completely on your own in the wild. It features stunning visuals that make the open world feel incredibly alive, and its calming gameplay can distract you from the hidden dangers. The game blends building and exploring with familiar survival mechanics like crafting, cooking, and farming.
Among Trees offers a relaxing ‘Zen Mode’ that removes all threats from dangerous animals, making it perfect for learning the basics of survival games without the stress of combat. Even with enemies enabled, the game’s emphasis on exploration makes it a good choice for those new to the survival genre. However, it’s worth noting that Among Trees has received mixed reviews on Steam because development has stopped, and some issues from its earlier, unfinished version remain.
2) Core Keeper
Platform(s): PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, Switch 2
Price: $19.99
If you like pixel art and relaxing survival games, Core Keeper is a fantastic choice. While it looks cozy, it still offers the detailed and expansive gameplay you’d expect from a survival game, letting you explore and gather resources in a large, open world.
Core Keeper lets you play pretty much how you want, which can take a little getting used to at first. The game moves at a relaxed pace, and you won’t be constantly attacked by enemies unless you actively seek them out. You can also start on Casual mode to focus on things like mining, farming, and building your base without worrying too much about combat. Plus, it’s even more fun with friends, who can join in and help you learn the ropes!
1) Subnautica
Platform(s): PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, and Mobile
Price: $29.99
Released in 2018, Subnautica is a highly popular and critically acclaimed survival game. It offers a unique take on the genre by dropping players onto an alien ocean planet. Players must explore a massive underwater world, carefully managing their oxygen and resources to stay alive.
Subnautica is often recommended for people new to survival games because it’s easy to pick up and play. The game emphasizes exploring the underwater world at your own speed while collecting resources. If you’re a complete beginner, you can play in a Creative Mode that removes all survival challenges, or choose an easier difficulty setting that keeps some of the tension. With an overwhelmingly positive reception on Steam, Subnautica is a fantastic first survival game.
Enjoy survival games? Share your thoughts and join the discussion in the ComicBook Forum!
Read More
- Darkwood Trunk Location in Hytale
- Hytale: Upgrade All Workbenches to Max Level, Materials Guide
- Best Controller Settings for ARC Raiders
- How To Watch A Knight Of The Seven Kingdoms Online And Stream The Game Of Thrones Spinoff From Anywhere
- Ashes of Creation Rogue Guide for Beginners
- RHOBH’s Jennifer Tilly Reacts to Sutton Stracke “Snapping” at Her
- Daredevil Is Entering a New Era With a Chilling New Villain (And We Have A First Look) (Exclusive)
- Olympian Katie Ledecky Details Her Gold Medal-Winning Training Regimen
- So Long, Anthem: EA’s Biggest Flop Says Goodbye
- Marvel Legends Retro Spider-Man Wave MCM London Pre-Orders Drop This Week
2026-01-18 19:12