Best 25 Games Like DayZ

Are you a fan of the zombie apocalypse survival game DayZ and looking for similar games to scratch that same itch? Look no further! We have created an extensive list of the top 25 games, like DayZ, which you must try. These games will provide the perfect mix of action, survival, and exploration; all wrapped up in a thrilling, post-apocalyptic setting. So, grab your controller or keyboard, and let's dive into the ultimate list of DayZ-like games.

What are Games Like DayZ?

Games Like DayZ are video games with similar gameplay mechanics, themes, or elements to the popular survival game DayZ. These games often feature open-world environments, player-vs-player (PvP) combat, survival elements such as hunger, thirst, and environmental hazards, and a focus on exploration and scavenging for resources.

Top Games Like DayZ

Our team has compiled a list of the top 25 games, like DayZ, that will take you on a thrilling and mysterious journey.

1. The Forest

· Release Date: April 30, 2018

· Platform: PC, PS4

· Camera: First-person

· Multiplayer: Yes

· Co-op: Yes

· Genre: Horror, Survival

· Developer: Endnight Games

First on our list is The Forest, a terrifying open-world survival game that places you in the shoes of a lone survivor of a plane crash on a mysterious island. As you explore the island and gather resources, you'll encounter hostile creatures and uncover the island's dark secrets. With an emphasis on crafting, exploration, and base building, The Forest is a must-play for DayZ fans.

2. Rust

· Release Date: February 8, 2018

· Platform: PC, PS4, Xbox One

· Camera: First-person, Third-person

· Multiplayer: Yes

· Co-op: Yes

· Genre: Survival, Action, Adventure

· Developer: Facepunch Studios

Rust is an online multiplayer survival game that shares many similarities with DayZ. Players need to collect resources, create various items, and construct fortified bases to endure the severe conditions of the post-apocalyptic world. The game's standout feature is its intense PvP action, with players fighting to control resources and territory.

3. 7 Days to Die

· Release Date: December 13, 2013

· Platform: PC, PS4, Xbox One

· Camera: First-person, Third-person

· Multiplayer: Yes

· Co-op: Yes

· Genre: Survival, Horror

· Developer: The Fun Pimps

7 Days to Die combines elements of Minecraft and DayZ, blending crafting, building, and zombie survival into a single game. Players must search for resources, manufacture weapons, and reinforce their stronghold to defend against the constant attacks of the unyielding waves of zombies. With a unique blend of genres and a massive, explorable world, 7 Days to Die is a thrilling experience for fans of DayZ and zombie survival games.

4. State of Decay 2

· Release Date: May 22, 2018

· Platform: PC, Xbox One

· Camera: Third-person

· Multiplayer: Yes

· Co-op: Yes

· Genre: Survival, Action, Adventure

· Developer: Undead Labs

State of Decay 2 expands on the original game's formula by introducing cooperative multiplayer and deeper base-building mechanics. Players must manage their community of survivors, scavenge for resources, and fend off hordes of zombies in a dynamic, open-world environment. With its focus on survival and resource management, State of Decay 2 is an excellent choice for DayZ fans.

5. Dying Light

· Release Date: January 27, 2015

· Platform: PC, PS4, Xbox One

· Camera: First-person

· Multiplayer: Yes

· Co-op: Yes

· Genre: Action, Survival, Horror

· Developer: Techland

From a first-person perspective, dying Light is an action-packed survival game played in a vast, open-world city swarming with zombies. Players can utilize parkour skills to traverse the environment, engage in intense melee combat, and craft weapons to take on the undead. As night falls, the game's dynamic day-night cycle makes the world even more dangerous, with powerful zombies emerging from the shadows. Dying Light's blend of survival, exploration, and action makes it a great alternative to DayZ.

6. SCUM

· Release Date: August 29, 2018

· Platform: PC

· Camera: First-person, Third-person

· Multiplayer: Yes

· Co-op: Yes

· Genre: Survival, Open-world

· Developer: Gamepires

SCUM is an online multiplayer survival game that pushes the boundaries of realism. Players take on the role of prisoners on a remote island, fighting for survival in a brutal and unforgiving environment. The game features in-depth character customization, advanced metabolism, health systems, and dynamic weather conditions. If you desire a challenging survival encounter, then SCUM is a game you shouldn't miss.

7. Subnautica

· Release Date: January 23, 2018

· Platform: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Switch

· Camera: First-person

· Multiplayer: No

· Co-op: No

· Genre: Adventure, Survival

· Developer: Unknown Worlds Entertainment

While not a zombie game, Subnautica shares the survival and exploration aspects that make DayZ so appealing. In a breathtaking underwater world, players must gather resources, craft equipment, and build a base to survive the harsh ocean environment. With its beautiful visuals, engaging gameplay, and mysterious story, Subnautica is an excellent choice for those seeking a unique survival experience with a similar vibe to DayZ.

8. Miscreated

· Release Date: December 18, 2018

· Platform: PC

· Camera: First-person, Third-person

· Multiplayer: Yes

· Co-op: Yes

· Genre: Survival, Open-world, post-apocalyptic

· Developer: Entrada Interactive

Miscreated is an online multiplayer survival game in a post-apocalyptic world devastated by nuclear war. In this game, players must scavenge for resources, manufacture items, and construct fortified bases to withstand the harsh environment filled with mutants and hostile opponents. With a realistic weather system, dynamic day-night cycle, and intense PvP action, Miscreated is an excellent alternative for DayZ enthusiasts.

9. Fallout 4

· Release Date: November 14, 2018

· Platform: PC, PS4, Xbox One

· Camera: First-person, Third-person

· Multiplayer: Yes

· Co-op: yes

· Genre: Action RPG, Survival

· Developer: Bethesda Game Studios

While not a direct DayZ-like experience, Fallout 4 offers a sprawling, open-world, post-apocalyptic setting filled with danger and adventure. Players must navigate the wasteland, battling mutated creatures, hostile factions, and other survivors while building settlements and crafting weapons. With its captivating storyline and immersive gameplay, Fallout 4 is a must-play for fans of DayZ and post-apocalyptic games in general.

10. Deadside

· Release Date: April 14, 2020

· Platform: PC

· Camera: First-person, Third-person

· Multiplayer: Yes

· Co-op: Yes

· Genre: Survival, Shooter

· Developer: Bad Pixel

Deadside is a hardcore multiplayer shooter that combines elements of DayZ with tactical FPS gameplay. In a world destroyed by an apocalypse, gamers must search for resources, participate in fierce player-versus-player battles, and accomplish missions to stay alive. With its realistic gunplay and unforgiving environment, Deadside offers a thrilling experience for fans of DayZ and tactical shooters.

11. Unturned

· Release Date: July 7, 2017

· Platform: PC

· Camera: First-person, Third-person

· Multiplayer: Yes

· Co-op: Yes

· Genre: Sandbox, Survival

· Developer: Smartly Dressed Games

Unturned is a free-to-play survival game with a unique blocky art style reminiscent of Minecraft. Players must collect resources, create various items, and construct fortified bases to endure the world overrun by zombies. With a vast array of weapons, vehicles, and locations to explore, Unturned offers hours of entertainment for fans of DayZ and survival games.

12. Project Zomboid

· Release Date: November 8, 2013

· Platform: PC, Mac, Linux

· Camera: Isometric

· Multiplayer: Yes

· Co-op: Yes

· Genre: Survival, Simulation

· Developer: The Indie Stone

Project Zomboid is an isometric survival game that places players in a zombie-infested, open world with one goal: survive. The game features a complex crafting system, deep character customization, and a dynamic world with realistic weather, day-night cycles, and NPC interactions. With its focus on long-term survival and strategic gameplay, Project Zomboid is a must-try for DayZ fans looking for a unique perspective on the genre.

13. Generation Zero

· Release Date: March 26, 2019

· Platform: PC, PS4, Xbox One

· Camera: First-person

· Multiplayer: Yes

· Co-op: Yes

· Genre: Open-world, Survival, Shooter

· Developer: Avalanche Studios

Generation Zero is an open-world action game set in an alternate version of Sweden in the 1980s, where menacing machines invaded and took control. Players must work with friends or solo to scavenge for weapons, craft items, and battle the mechanical threat. With its atmospheric setting and engaging gameplay, Generation Zero offers an exciting twist on the survival genre that DayZ fans will appreciate.

14. Green Hell

· Release Date: September 5, 2019

· Platform: PC, PS4, Xbox One, Switch

· Camera: First-person

· Multiplayer: Yes

· Co-op: Yes

· Genre: Survival, Adventure

· Developer: Creepy Jar

Green Hell is a challenging survival game in the unforgiving Amazon rainforest. Players must navigate the harsh environment, battle dangerous wildlife, and manage their physical and mental well-being to stay alive. With its realistic survival mechanics and challenging gameplay, Green Hell is an excellent choice for players looking for a hardcore survival experience similar to DayZ.

15. Conan Exiles

· Release Date: May 8, 2018

· Platform: PC, PS4, Xbox One

· Camera: First-person, Third-person

· Multiplayer: Yes

· Co-op: Yes

· Genre: Survival, Open-world

· Developer: Funcom

Conan Exiles is an open-world survival game set in the harsh world of Conan the Barbarian. Players must gather resources, build bases, and fight off both human and supernatural threats to survive. Conan Exiles is a compelling option for survival game enthusiasts, thanks to its intricate crafting and building mechanics, challenging combat, and ruthless setting. It offers a great alternative to DayZ.

16. Escape from Tarkov

· Release Date: July 27, 2017 (Closed Beta)

· Platform: PC

· Camera: First-person

· Multiplayer: Yes

· Co-op: Yes

· Genre: Tactical Shooter, Survival

· Developer: Battlestate Games

Escape from Tarkov is a first-person shooter that requires hardcore gameplay and shares similarities with DayZ regarding survival, scavenging, and intense player-versus-player combat. Set in the fictional city of Tarkov, players must navigate a war-torn environment, gather resources, and engage in intense firefights with other players and AI-controlled enemies. With its realistic gunplay, high-stakes gameplay, and in-depth character progression, Escape from Tarkov is a must-play for fans of DayZ and tactical shooters.

17. Far Cry 5

· Release Date: March 27, 2018

· Platform: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows

· Camera: First-person perspective

· Multiplayer: Yes

· Co-op: Yes

· Genre: First-person shooter, action-adventure

· Developer: Ubisoft Montreal

Far Cry 5, while not a traditional survival game, offers an expansive open-world environment filled with hostile factions, wild animals, and intense action. Set in rural Montana, players must liberate the region from a dangerous cult while engaging in thrilling shootouts and exploration. The game's immersive world and dynamic gameplay make it an excellent choice for DayZ fans seeking a different kind of adventure.

18. H1Z1: Survive

· Release Date: January 15, 2015 (Early Access)

· Platform: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4

· Camera: Third-person perspective

· Multiplayer: Yes

· Co-op: Yes

· Genre: Survival, battle royale

· Developer: Daybreak Game Company

H1Z1: Survive is an online multiplayer survival game set in a post-apocalyptic world where zombies have taken over. In this game, players must scavenge for resources, create various items, and construct fortified bases to survive against the relentless waves of zombies and hostile opponents. With its intense PvP action and focus on survival, H1Z1: Survive is a fantastic alternative for DayZ enthusiasts.

19. Raft

· Release Date: May 23, 2018 (Early Access)

· Platform: Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux

· Camera: First-person perspective

· Multiplayer: Yes

· Co-op: Yes

· Genre: Survival, adventure

· Developer: Redbeet Interactive

Raft is a unique survival game that places players on a small, makeshift raft floating in the middle of the ocean. Players must gather resources, expand their Raft, and defend against threats like sharks while staying afloat. Although Raft's setting is vastly different from DayZ, its core gameplay elements of resource management, crafting, and survival make it a refreshing change of pace for fans of the genre.

20. Metro Exodus

· Release Date: February 15, 2019

· Platform: Microsoft Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Google Stadia

· Camera: First-person perspective

· Multiplayer: No

· Co-op: No

· Genre: First-person shooter, survival horror

· Developer: 4A Games

Metro Exodus is a first-person shooter combining survival horror and stealth elements in a post-apocalyptic setting. Players must navigate Russia's dangerous, irradiated wastelands, battling mutated creatures, hostile factions, and the elements. With its atmospheric world, engaging gameplay, and emphasis on survival, Metro Exodus is an excellent choice for DayZ fans seeking a story-driven experience.

21. Stranded Deep

· Release Date: January 23, 2015 (Early Access)

· Platform: Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

· Camera: First-person perspective

· Multiplayer: No

· Co-op: Yes (2-player split-screen)

· Genre: Survival, adventure

· Developer: Beam Team Games

Stranded Deep is a survival game that abandons players on a deserted island in the vast Pacific Ocean. In this game, players must explore the island, collect resources, create various items, and construct a shelter to withstand the brutal environment. With its realistic survival mechanics and immersive setting, Stranded Deep is an excellent option for those looking for a DayZ-like experience in a tropical setting.

22. Grounded

· Release Date: July 28, 2020 (Early Access)

· Platform: Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S

· Camera: First-person perspective

· Multiplayer: Yes

· Co-op: Yes (up to 4 players)

· Genre: Survival, adventure

· Developer: Obsidian Entertainment

Grounded is a survival game with a twist: players are shrunken down to the size of insects and must navigate a suburban backyard filled with dangers. Gather resources, craft items, and build bases to survive against the various creatures that inhabit this miniature world. Grounded's unique setting and engaging gameplay make it an exciting alternative for DayZ fans.

23. The Long Dark

· Release Date: September 22, 2014 (Early Access)

· Platform: Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

· Camera: First-person perspective

· Multiplayer: No

· Co-op: No

· Genre: Survival, simulation

· Developer: Hinterland Studio Inc.

The Long Dark is a first-person survival game in the icy and desolate wilderness of the Canadian North. Players must manage their temperature, hunger, and thirst while navigating the harsh environment and avoiding dangerous wildlife. With its focus on realistic survival mechanics and an immersive, atmospheric world, The Long Dark is a must-play for fans of DayZ and survival games in general.

24. Hurtworld

· Release Date: December 4, 2015 (Early Access)

· Platform: Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux

· Camera: First-person perspective

· Multiplayer: Yes

· Co-op: Yes (up to 8 players)

· Genre: Survival, multiplayer, sandbox

· Developer: Bankroll Studios

Hurtworld is a hardcore multiplayer survival game emphasizing resource gathering, crafting, and base building. Players must scavenge for resources, craft items, and build shelters to survive in a harsh, post-apocalyptic world of hostile players and creatures. With its intense PvP action and survival-focused gameplay, Hurtworld is a fantastic alternative for fans of DayZ.

25. Dead Matter

· Release Date: TBA (currently in development)

· Platform: Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux

· Camera: First-person perspective

· Multiplayer: Yes

· Co-op: Yes (up to 8 players)

· Genre: Survival, horror, sandbox

· Developer: Quantum Integrity Software Inc.

Last on our list is Dead Matter, an upcoming open-world survival game set in a zombie-infested, post-apocalyptic world. Players must scavenge for resources, craft items, and build bases while battling the undead and other survivors. With its ambitious gameplay features, including advanced AI, dynamic weather, and a fully-destructible environment, Dead Matter promises to be a thrilling experience for fans of DayZ and the survival genre.

Conclusion

There you have it – the ultimate list of the top 25 games like DayZ you need to play right now! These games offer diverse settings, gameplay mechanics, and challenges, but all share the core elements of survival, resource management, and exploration that make DayZ addictive. Whether you're a fan of post-apocalyptic wastelands, tropical islands, or even insect-sized adventures, there's a game on this list that's perfect for you. So, grab your controller or keyboard and prepare for your next survival adventure!