With the release of SCUM's 1.0 update, it's time for new players to hop into the complete launch experience. However, if you're confused on what to do as soon as you drop from the sky, then you're in luck. Read on to find out some beginner tips and tricks to help you on your SCUM journey.
SCUM is an open world survival game that puts players into a harsh world filled with Puppets (beings that are like zombies), mechs, armed NPCs, and if you're in a PvP server, other people. Being on a populated server means supplies are scarce, and you'll need all the help you can get to survive.
SCUM 1.0 - Beginner Tips and Tricks
What I learned first when I played SCUM was that the game is truly unforgiving. I played before the 1.0 update, and my spawn was relatively peaceful with little to no Puppets. There were a lot of houses that I could loot for resources. However, that's not always the case, so be vigilant. So, if you just picked up the game and want to learn what to do first, then you've come to the right place.
Start In Sandbox Mode/PvE Servers
To start your journey, I recommend playing in sandbox mode first or on a beginner-friendly or a Player vs. Environment (PvE) server. In sandbox mode, you'll be on your own (single-player mode), and this gives you a chance to play at your own pace. This is an excellent opportunity to learn the basics, including crafting, learning the Metabolism and Health mechanics, and navigating the world.
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+ 4For public PvE servers, make sure to find one that has an optimal ping for you to play in to avoid any constant disconnections. This can completely ruin the SCUM experience. There will be other players in these lobbies, and from my experience, there are friendly ones who will be helpful. You can also try asking for help through the global chat.
However, this is a different story in Player vs. Player (PvP) servers. Unless you're playing with a friend, don't trust anyone so fast, and be on the lookout for anyone who might be after you. Remember that you're wearing a bright orange outfit that screams "New Player." I'd recommend playing in a PvP server when you're oriented.
Stats Matter
In SCUM, you'll rely a lot on your stats.
You may overthink the stats you're putting in for your first character, and that's all good. Don't put 3, 3, 3, 3 for your stat allocations, though. It may seem like being on the balanced side will be good, but some stats are easier to level up than others. More seasoned players suggested having 5, 1, 1, 5 as a good base.
click to enlarge + 4If you're looking to start in PvE or sandbox, then I'd say Stealth is pretty helpful to avoid constant detection from Puppets. I usually include stats for Medical in games such as SCUM and Project Zomboid, as it's challenging to level up.
Walk, Don't Run
It will be tempting to run since you will find out how big the map actually is. You can control how fast your pace is by using your mouse's scroll wheel. What I learned the hard way is that running attracts the Puppets. It also didn't help that I spawned in an area where there's a mech as well, so I died immediately. It's best to be cautious and on guard so that you can survive the early days.
Craft The Basics
When you drop off and land from the sky, try to find rocks immediately. Just look at the ground and you'll find a lot of them scattered. This is important since you'll be able to create a stone knife. I'd rather have the stone knife, as trying to find other knives in houses can take a while.
click to enlarge + 4After that, cut a bush with the stone knife to have sticks. You can then create a spear that will help fight off Puppets (though only one at a time). Get more materials to craft better weapons and tools, such as an axe and a bow.
One of the essential things is to have a bag as well. You won't be able to carry many items with only the orange clothes you have. If you're in a warm area, you can ditch your original clothes to craft an improvised bag.
Looting is Key
Once you have some good starter gear, it's time to move into the houses and loot items such as better clothes and weapons. Remember that you can manually rotate your items to fit more optimally, but do so in a safe place. There are knives sometimes, which is quite good for fending off Puppets one at a time, too. If you're struggling to find animals, then your best bet will be to get mushrooms and olives.
click to enlarge + 4Death Isn't The End
Sure, it's sad that you died, but that doesn't mean that you need to stop playing SCUM. Each death means there is room for growth, and you can learn from them. You need to consider if you were being too loud, going into areas that may be too dangerous, filled with Puppets, mechs, or armed NPCs, or heavily populated by Puppets or other players.
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