What Should I Play First in State of Decay 2? A Comprehensive Beginner’s Guide

If you’re diving into the zombie-infested world of State of Decay 2 for the first time, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The game throws a lot at you right from the start – base building, resource management, combat, and character progression, all while trying to survive the relentless undead horde. So, what should you prioritize when you first jump in?

The absolute best approach for beginners is to focus on mastering the core survival loop of the game. This includes understanding the basic mechanics, establishing a functional base, and learning to efficiently scavenge and combat. Specifically, your initial hours should be centered around these key activities:

1. Complete the Initial Tutorial: The game has a built-in tutorial that is crucial for understanding the basics of movement, combat, and base management. Follow these initial missions closely, as they introduce vital gameplay elements and help you gather your first group of survivors.

2. Establish a Functional Base: Soon after starting, you’ll need to move from the initial starter base to a more permanent location. Focus on setting up essential facilities such as a Medical Facility to treat injuries and infections, a Garden for food production, and a Workshop for weapon and item repair. Don’t worry about getting everything perfect right away; focus on building the basics for survival.

3. Master Basic Combat and Stealth: Learn the ins and outs of melee combat, resource management, and headshots. Stealth is incredibly valuable in State of Decay 2, and avoiding unnecessary fights is often better than engaging, especially early on. Practice sneaking around zombies and learn the advantages of instant kills.

4. Scavenge Efficiently: Getting loot is critical, but you want to avoid wasting your time. Focus on looting areas near your base first. Learn where common resources are found in different buildings. Don’t forget to search vehicles; you’ll often find useful items in the trunks.

5. Understand Zombie Types: The game features various types of zombies, each with their own distinct threats. Know your enemy. Armored, Screamers, Bloaters, and Juggernauts all need specific strategies. This knowledge will drastically improve your odds of survival.

6. Learn to Drive: Familiarize yourself with the driving mechanics, as getting around the map quickly and efficiently is key for scavenging and escaping dangerous situations. Different vehicles have unique characteristics, so experiment to find what works best for you.

7. Don’t Neglect Community Morale: While you focus on the basics, remember to manage your community. Characters will become demoralized if there is not enough food, beds, or other amenities, and this can affect their productivity.

8. Choose the Right Map: When starting a new community, Meagher Valley is an excellent choice for beginners due to its varied environments and good selection of bases. It’s flatter compared to some maps, making it easier to navigate early in the game.

By focusing on these essential aspects during your first playthrough, you will build a solid foundation for your survival and be better prepared for the challenges ahead. Don’t rush things, and be patient as you learn the game’s mechanics.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What difficulty mode should I start with?

It is generally recommended that new players begin with Standard Mode (difficulty 2 out of 5). Green Mode (difficulty 1 of 5) can be too easy and not provide a good representation of the gameplay, while higher difficulties can be overwhelming for beginners. Standard mode provides a good balance of challenge and approachability.

2. Is it better to focus on combat or base building initially?

Both are crucial, but in the initial stages, base building and resource management are more important. A well-defended and well-supplied base will make combat much easier. Make sure to focus on a med bay and a garden as a top priority to keep your community alive and healthy.

3. What is the best first base?

While opinions may vary depending on playstyle, The Bridge Fort in Cascade Hills is often cited as a great early base. It requires only a few survivors, and it has a large slot and good defense. Snyder’s is also a popular option as it has a lot of resources and is easy to reach on the map.

4. Which outposts should I claim first?

Claim outposts that address your community’s immediate needs. If you are running low on meds, find a medical outpost. If you need beds, claim a bed outpost. Prioritize claiming nearby outposts for easy access.

5. How do I choose a leader?

To choose a leader for your community, you first need to get a character to Hero standing. Once you’ve done that, you will have the ability to choose them as the leader. This will unlock special missions and base upgrades.

6. What is the main goal of State of Decay 2?

The main goal is to survive and build a thriving community in the face of a zombie apocalypse. This includes resource management, community development, and clearing Plague Hearts.

7. How many outposts can you claim?

The number of outposts you can claim is determined by your Command Center level and upgrades. You can max out at seven.

8. When should I consider moving to a bigger base?

You should think about moving when your community has grown beyond your current base’s capacity or when you need more facilities to address growing needs. The best time to move is when you have additional community members that can make the new base more immediately functional.

9. What is the best car in the game?

The Brogan Trekker is often considered the best all-around vehicle due to its durability and space. The Survey car is also very helpful with searching the map quicker.

10. How do I deal with Plague Hearts?

Plague Hearts are a major threat. Stock up on resources (especially ammo and explosives) before attempting to destroy one. Plan your approach, and use stealth where possible. Focus on the heart to inflict damage quickly.

11. Can I play State of Decay 2 solo?

Yes, the game is entirely playable in single-player. Multiplayer is an option for those who want to play with friends. The game is challenging and rewarding whether you play alone or with others.

12. What are the best survivor traits?

Some of the best traits include Volunteer Coordinator, Officer Material, Red Talon Operative, Indefatigable, and Can Sleep Anywhere. These traits enhance community morale, increase productivity, and promote survivor survival.

13. What is the end-game for State of Decay 2?

The end-game involves eliminating all Plague Hearts and completing the specific missions assigned to your chosen leader. This leads to your community’s final “mission” and unlocks boons for future playthroughs.

14. Which is better State of Decay 1 or 2?

Both games have their merits, and which is “better” often comes down to individual preferences. State of Decay 1 is often lauded for its story and difficulty, while State of Decay 2 wins in customization, graphics, and mission variety.

15. How can I improve my survivor’s skills?

Survivors improve skills by actively using them. For example, combat skills increase through consistent fighting. Scavenging increases when searching for items, and driving improves while behind the wheel.