Underrated Survival Online Games You Should Play

In the vast landscape of online gaming, survival titles often dominate discussions with big names like Rust, DayZ, and ARK: Survival Evolved. However, beneath the surface lies a treasure trove of underrated gems that deliver thrilling survival experiences without the mainstream spotlight. Whether you crave tense PvP encounters, cooperative base-building, or immersive open-world exploration, these overlooked games deserve your attention.

1. The Forest (Multiplayer Mode)

While The Forest gained recognition as a single-player horror-survival game, its multiplayer mode remains criminally underrated. Stranded on a mysterious peninsula after a plane crash, you and your friends must scavenge for resources, build shelters, and fend off cannibalistic mutants. The game’s dynamic AI ensures that no two playthroughs are alike, and the eerie atmosphere makes every night a nerve-wracking ordeal. With its deep crafting system and terrifying enemies, The Forest is a must-play for survival enthusiasts.

2. SCUM

SCUM takes survival realism to the next level with its intricate metabolism system, where everything from calorie intake to muscle mass affects your character’s performance. Set on a dystopian island where prisoners fight for entertainment, the game blends DayZ-style survival with Battle Royale elements. What sets SCUM apart is its unparalleled attention to detail—players must manage digestion, hydration, and even bowel movements. If you’re looking for a hardcore survival challenge with a unique twist, SCUM delivers.

3. Conan Exiles

Though Conan Exiles has a dedicated fanbase, it often flies under the radar compared to other survival RPGs. Set in the brutal world of Conan the Barbarian, the game lets you build mighty fortresses, enslave NPCs, and battle mythical creatures. The combat is satisfyingly visceral, and the sandbox elements allow for endless creativity. With frequent updates and a thriving modding community, Conan Exiles remains one of the most engaging survival experiences available.

4. Green Hell

For those who crave realism and psychological tension, Green Hell stands out. Stranded in the Amazon rainforest, players must contend with deadly wildlife, tropical diseases, and the ever-looming threat of insanity. Unlike many survival games, Green Hell emphasizes realism—you’ll need to inspect wounds, craft proper bandages, and even deal with parasitic infections. The co-op mode enhances the experience, making it a gripping test of teamwork and endurance.

5. Project Zomboid

Project Zomboid is the ultimate zombie survival simulator, offering an unforgiving isometric experience where every decision matters. The game’s permadeath mechanics ensure that mistakes are costly, and the sheer depth of its survival systems—from farming to electrical engineering—makes it endlessly replayable. Despite its retro graphics, Project Zomboid delivers one of the most immersive and tense survival experiences in gaming.

Final Thoughts

While mainstream survival games often steal the spotlight, these underrated titles offer unique and deeply engaging experiences. Whether you prefer the horror of The Forest, the realism of SCUM, or the brutal sandbox of Conan Exiles, there’s something here for every survival fan. So gather your friends, sharpen your instincts, and dive into these hidden gems—you won’t be disappointed.