DayZ
Action
Adventure
Massively Multiplayer
Multi-player
MMO
PvP
Online PvP
Co-op
Online Co-op
Steam Achievements
Steam Workshop
Steam Cloud
Valve Anti-Cheat enabled

How long can you survive a post-apocalyptic world? A land overrun with an infected "zombie" population, where you compete with other survivors for limited resources. Will you team up with strangers and stay strong together? Or play as a lone wolf to avoid betrayal? This is DayZ – this is your story.

Developers: Bohemia Interactive
Publishers: Bohemia Interactive
Release Date: Dec 13, 2018
Price (USD): $49.99
Current Players: 18k

Links:  Steam Store  SteamDB

Mostly Positive(73%)
immersive survival
player-driven narratives
modding community
unique experiences
player interactions
survival mechanics
technical issues
rampant cheating
outdated graphics
steep learning curve
Overall, the sentiment towards DayZ is polarizing. The game is celebrated for its immersive survival experience and player-driven narratives, creating unique and memorable interactions. However, frequent technical issues and rampant cheating on official servers contribute to significant frustration among players. The steep learning curve and harsh gameplay can deter newcomers, although many find it rewarding once mastered. The vibrant modding community is often recognized for enhancing gameplay, providing an array of options for players. Despite its flaws, DayZ retains a dedicated following, drawn to its tense and unpredictable atmosphere.

Positive Points

  • DayZ is praised for its immersive and intense survival mechanics that create a unique sense of tension and unpredictability.
  • The open-world setting and ability to create unique, player-driven narratives generate memorable and engaging experiences.
  • The modding community is often commended for enhancing gameplay, offering more variety and depth than the base game.
  • Despite its difficulty, many players find the game rewarding once they understand its mechanics, particularly the survival strategies and interactions with other players.
  • Negative Points

  • The game is heavily criticized for its technical issues, including bugs, glitches, and performance problems that disrupt gameplay.
  • Cheating is described as rampant on official servers, greatly diminishing the experience for legitimate players.
  • DayZ's graphics and UI are often considered outdated and clunky, detracting from the overall experience.
  • The steep learning curve and lack of helpful in-game guidance can be frustrating for new players.
  • Mixed Points

  • Player interactions are a significant part of DayZ's appeal, with experiences ranging from forming alliances to brutal betrayals, emphasizing both its unpredictability and potential for frustration.
  • While the survival mechanics are praised for their realism, they also contribute to the game's high difficulty and occasional tedium, leading to divided opinions on their impact on fun.
  • Common Themes

  • DayZ's player-driven narratives and emergent gameplay are highly regarded, often cited as the primary reason behind its enduring appeal.
  • Technical issues, especially server instability and bugs, are a recurring point of criticism among players, impacting their enjoyment.
  • Survival mechanics and player interactions create a unique blend of challenge and excitement, although they may not appeal to everyone.
  • Updated 10/28/2025, 12:01:32 AM UTC