Can Zombies Get Over High Fences in Project Zomboid?

The simple answer is: no, zombies in Project Zomboid cannot naturally climb over high, “natural” fences. However, this statement requires some context and clarification. While zombies cannot inherently jump or climb in the way a player can, there are specific types of fences and situations where they might circumvent your defenses or, conversely, be completely unable to penetrate them. This article will delve into the specifics of fence types, zombie behavior, and how you can leverage this knowledge to survive the undead apocalypse.

Understanding Fence Types and Zombie Behavior

Project Zomboid features various types of fences, each with its own characteristics regarding zombie interaction:

“Natural” High Fences

These are the fences that are already present within the game world, often found lining the perimeter of industrial areas, forests, or large properties. These fences, which generally are two tiles high, are a godsend for survivors. The critical aspect of these fences is that zombies cannot destroy them. Moreover, zombies cannot climb over them. They essentially act as a hard barrier, giving you a significant defensive advantage. Locations bordered by these high, natural fences are considered very defendable.

Player-Built Fences

You, as the player, can also construct your own fences. These usually consist of smaller, one-tile high structures like wooden fences. While useful for marking off areas and slowing down zombies, they do have limitations. Zombies can, and will, climb over them. The good news, however, is that zombies can’t destroy these fences either, whether they are made of wood, wire, or chainlink.

Wire Fences

These are common in the game environment and are often found in rural or industrial locations. Zombies can climb over them, just like player characters. However, their interaction is limited to simply going over rather than destroying these types of fences.

Chain Link Fences

Much like wire fences, these are a common sight throughout Knox County. Again, zombies can climb over chain link fences and they also cannot destroy chain link fences. The fences can be extremely effective for creating barriers, but remember, zombies can still traverse them by simply climbing over.

Low Fences and Obstacles

Small fences, waist-high ones, are no match for the undead. Zombies can easily fall over these and destroy them (if they are player-made).

The Critical Distinction: Player-Placed vs. World-Placed

A crucial takeaway is the difference between player-placed and world-placed structures. “Natural,” world-placed high fences cannot be destroyed by zombies. Conversely, zombies can attempt to break down player-made structures, although they will not be able to destroy fences and instead they will climb over them if they are not a natural high fence type. This highlights the importance of identifying locations that already have built-in, high, non-destructible fences.

The Sheet Rope Exception

One of the most powerful defensive tools in Project Zomboid is the humble sheet rope. Zombies cannot climb sheet ropes. By establishing a base on the second floor of a building and utilizing sheet ropes as your only access point, you create an effectively zombie-proof sanctuary. They would instead need to bash through the first-floor doors and windows to get inside. This allows you to establish a safe perimeter with significantly less worry about breaches.

Utilizing Fences Effectively

Understanding these mechanics, the key to effective base defense is:

• Identify and Secure Locations with High, Natural Fences: These are the best locations to establish a long-term base as the existing perimeter of high fences provides a significant, and indestructible, defense.
• Use Sheet Ropes as Entry Points: Isolate your base by only using sheet ropes.
• Reinforce with Player-Placed Barriers: Use wooden fences and other obstacles to funnel zombies into choke points.
• Barricade Doors and Windows: This can slow down zombies, even if they can’t be fully stopped.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the interactions between zombies and fences in Project Zomboid:

Can zombies destroy wooden fences in Project Zomboid?

No, zombies cannot destroy wooden fences in Project Zomboid. They can climb over them, but they cannot break them.

Can zombies climb over wire fences in Project Zomboid?

Yes, zombies can climb over wire fences in Project Zomboid. Wire fences will not provide a barrier, only slow them down temporarily.

Can zombies destroy chain link fences in Project Zomboid?

No, zombies cannot destroy chain link fences in Project Zomboid. Again, they can climb over, but they cannot break these types of fences.

Can zombies climb sheet rope in Project Zomboid?

No, zombies cannot climb sheet ropes in Project Zomboid. Sheet ropes are a perfect tool for creating safe perimeters.

Can zombies get through fence gates?

Zombies can break through doors and gates, but they cannot break fences. If you want a solid defense, focus on using fences rather than gates.

Can zombies see through barricades?

Zombies can see through barricades up to two planks or metal sheets. Barricades with three or four planks cannot be seen through.

Can zombies destroy log walls?

No, zombies cannot destroy log walls. Log walls are considered an effective form of defense due to their high damage resistance and durability.

What types of walls can zombies break through?

Zombies can break through player-placed walls. They can also break through standard doors and windows.

Can zombies climb under cars?

Yes, zombies can crawl under cars in Project Zomboid. Cars can slow them down but are not a reliable defensive barrier.

Can zombies climb over small, waist-high fences?

Yes, zombies can walk over small, waist-high fences. These types of fences don’t provide much of a defense.

Can zombies be seen through curtains?

Zombies can see lights through curtains. Consider covering your windows with sheets instead to block out any light.

Can zombies jump?

No, zombies cannot jump in Project Zomboid. They rely on climbing or breaking through barriers.

Are fences OP in Project Zomboid?

“Natural,” high, world-placed fences are very strong in Project Zomboid. However, player-placed fences are not OP, since zombies can climb them.

Can zombies cross fences?

No, zombies cannot cross high natural fences by any means. They cannot jump or break through these types of fences.

How can I “zombie proof” my base?

To make your base zombie-proof, focus on using high natural fences, sheet ropes as an entry point, and barricade all doors and windows on the ground floor.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between the various fence types, how zombies interact with them, and utilizing the strengths of certain structures like sheet ropes, is crucial for surviving the zombie outbreak in Project Zomboid. While they are relentless and numerous, the zombies can be contained with proper understanding of how to fortify your base effectively using the game’s mechanics. By strategically using naturally spawned high fences and other defensive strategies you can create a safe haven in the harsh world of Knox County. Remember, knowledge is your best weapon against the undead!