

The more you perform actions and build skills, the faster you can execute an activity. There are also skills you can unlock by performing actions such as running or chopping wood: for example, I got my first skill while running for my life from a crab. This let me plan my base out without the full commitment, but even so, before completing a structure you can take the materials you have invested into it out if you have more pressing concerns. Something I thought was nice is that in the build menu, when you place an item to be built, it only places the blueprint and then you must add the materials to create the structure. Once you figure out how to not die, you start on upgrading your gear and making your base. The start of the game consists of getting the basics down and completing the tutorial missions.

(As a quick aside, there are custom servers.) Some of the gathering at the start was a little tedious but I was able to move past that quickly. Starting up in the North American server I realized I was a bit behind, but a quick walk gave me space to set up shop. This game made me feel like I was a Rimworld colonist, especially since there is a chance everyone you meet will try to kill you! Through skills and research, you must build your base and advance yourself from sticks and stones into a power armor-wearing, bullet-slinging, force of nature. In CryoFall, you play some poor shmuck who has found himself on a forgotten planet.
