Hey survivors! Starting out in Deadly Days: Roadtrip can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry. A solid understanding of the map system is your key to surviving those early, chaotic days. This guide will break down the essential strategies for choosing your route and using your minimap effectively, helping you build momentum right from the start.
A Hardcore Guide for New Survivors: The Map Edition
Before we dive into my refined tips, let’s quickly review the original wisdom shared by a seasoned player. They emphasized a structured approach to map selection and minimap usage, which is absolutely foundational. Now, as your guide editor, I’ll expand on these concepts and present them in a way that’s easy to action.
1. The Logic of Survival Route Selection
When you’re presented with three cities to travel to, your choice here sets the tone for your entire run. Hover over each option to see three key stats:
- Map Size: A larger map (size >3 in the early game) means resources are more spread out. This can seriously slow down your initial loot gathering. Tip: For your first few cities, prioritize smaller or medium-sized maps to boost your efficiency and get geared up faster.
- Resources: This is, without a doubt, the most critical stat. Always, always lean towards the map with the highest resource count. Denser resources mean quicker weapon upgrades, more gear, and a faster path to a powerful build. This should be your primary deciding factor.
- Gas: Don’t stress too much about the gas indicator. As long as the map isn’t enormous, you’ll typically collect the required gas within 2-3 minutes of normal exploration. Focus on grabbing resources, and the gas will follow.
2. Minimap Observation Techniques
Once you’re in a level, your minimap (top-left corner) is your best friend. Keep a constant eye on these icons:
- Yellow Markers: These indicate essential supplies like Gas Cans and Wooden Crates. Crates are treasure troves, potentially containing medkits, explosives, drinks, vacuums, or airdrops.
- Blue Markers: These are your Resource Points. This is where you’ll find parts and equipment. Make a beeline for these to strengthen your character.
- Red “X” Markers: This appears when you level up, signaling an Airdrop. This is a top-priority objective! Drop everything and head there to secure powerful gear.
Pro Tip: Even after collecting the required gas, if the zombie horde is manageable, stick around! Use the extra time to loot more resources and backpacks to solidify your build before escaping.
3. The Winning Formula
To tie it all together, here’s a simple mantra to live by in Deadly Days:
- Plan Your Build Early: Have a rough idea of your desired weapon and item synergy before you even start looting.
- Grab the Tire Pump: This item is incredibly versatile and useful. It’s almost always a smart pickup.
- Expand Your Backpack: A larger inventory is a direct boost to your longevity. Prioritize backpack upgrades.
- Mobility Over Might (Early On): Items like the Magnet (for easier looting) and Sneakers (for increased speed) often provide more immediate survival value than a minor weapon upgrade in the early stages.