The original Don't Starve is somewhat forgotten due to its DLCs and sequel Don't Starve Together. Like most people, I initially skipped over to play Reign of Giants instead but I did eventually return to play this, at least for 30 days.

There are two seasons in this version. The calm and peaceful Summer and cold and dreary Winter. Outside of those, you can also venture into the caves which have their own slew of dangers and rewards. Spelunk deeper and you'll find yourself in the Ancient Ruins, a highly danger yet highly rewarding area meant as a sort of final challenge in this game.

Combat is rather unique in this game with most enemies following a kiting pattern. Essentially you bait the enemy to attack, step back then step forward and attack then rinse and repeat. It is very satisfying to do correctly and if you are skilled at doing it you rewarded by not needing armor or healing items.

Another integral part is the playable characters. Each with their own perks and quirks.
You have Wilson, a gentleman scientist who can grow a beard and has no downsides.
Willow, a pyromaniac who is kitted out with a sweet lighter and starts fires when below half Sanity.
Wolfgang, a strongman that can hit as hard as 2x or as little as 0.75x the damage depending on his hunger.
Wendy, a sombre little girl who can receive assistance from her fallen twin.
WX-78, a robot who starts with low stats but can upgrade with gears and gets powered-up from lightning.
Wickerbottom, a libertarian that can craft items from 1 Tier higher then normal and makes use of magic books.
Woodie, a lumberjack with a talking axe and a horrible curse.
Wes, a frail mime who has trouble staying alive.
Maxwell, the shadow King, can create his own army and has exceptional brain power.
And Wagstaff, a mysterious, near-sighted inventor with a delicate stomach.

Overall Don't Starve is a great game with a difficult learning curve but that's part of the fun. I would however recommend you start with either it's DLC, RoG or it's sequel DST as those have much more content.

Reviewed on May 05, 2024


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