The best survival games of the 2010s marked the game industry with intense, challenging and immersive experiences.
This genre, which places players against adversity, gained significant popularity during this period, exploring different themes such as zombies, natural disasters, alien worlds and even outer space. Each game brought innovative mechanics, engaging narrative and a setting that put the player on the edge.
Survival in this context is not only physical, but also mental and strategic. The most striking titles of the decade brought captivating stories and complex resource collection, construction and combat systems. With the evolution of technology, the graphics and the gameplay of these games have reached impressive levels, making them references to gender.
If you are a fan of challenges, get ready to explore the 10 best survival games released in the 2010s, which stood out for the creativity and the ability to arrest players for hours on end.
What are the best survival games of the 2010s?
The Last of Us (2013)

When it comes to better survival games, it is impossible not to mention “The Last of Us.” Developed by Naughty Dog, the game is a milestone in the genre, combining action, narrative and survival mechanics.
Situated in a post-apocalyptic world devastated by a pandemic, the player controls Joel, who should protect Ellie in the midst of dangerous infected and humans. Focusing on resource scarcity and strategy, “The Last of Us” offers an exciting and unforgettable experience.
Don’t Starve (2013)

With a unique artistic style and challenging mechanics, “Don’t Starve” won fans of survival games with his creative approach. The player is transported to a hostile world where he needs to collect resources, build shelters, and avoid starving or bizarre creature attacks.
The day and night cycle directly influences gameplay, forcing the player to plan each action. Dark aesthetics and RogueLike elements make this game an addictive experience.
Subnautica (2018)

“Subnautica” redefines the survival genre by bringing players to a submerged alien planet. Developed by Unknown Worlds Entertainment, the game offers a unique experience, combining exploration and resource management.
The underwater environment, filled with distinct biomes and amazing creatures, creates a constant feeling of discovery and danger. With an intriguing, “subnautical” narrative is perfect for those seeking an innovative survival experience.
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Ark: Survival Evolved (2017)

If you have already dreamed of surviving in a dinosaur -dominated world, “Ark: Survival Evolved” is the answer. The game, developed by Studio Wildcard, mechanical mixing of resource collection, construction of bases and domestication of prehistoric creatures.
Whether playing alone or on multiplayer servers, Ark offers a rich and expansive experience, allowing players to explore, build and fight for their survival in a vast and dangerous world.
Minecraft (2011)

Although he started as a construction game, “Minecraft” has consolidated himself as one of the best survival games thanks to his “Survival” way. In it, players need to collect resources, build shelters and face enemies such as zombies and skeletons at night.
The world generated procedurally ensures that each match is unique, while the possibilities of creation are virtually endless. Even after a decade, “Minecraft” remains one of the most influential games of the genre.
Dayz (2013)

Originated as a weapon 2 mod, “Dayz” was one of the pioneers in the online survival genre. In an open world infested with zombies, players face both the undead and other survivors, creating an unpredictable game dynamic.
The scarcity of resources and the constant threat of other players make each decision crucial. “Dayz” has influenced a generation of multiplayer survival games and follows as a reference for gender.
Rust (2013)

“Rust” leads to survival to a brutal level, focusing on the multiplayer aspect. In this game, the biggest threat is not wild animals or the hostile environment, but other players.
Created by Facepunch Studios, “Rust” mixes elements of construction, combat and diplomacy. The dynamic community of the game ensures that no match is equal to the other, making it one of the most challenging and unpredictable titles of the genre.
The Forest (2018)

Mixing terror and survival, “The Forest” places players on a mysterious island after a plane crashes. In addition to dealing with resource collection and shelter construction, players face cannibal tribes that make experience terrifying. The game, developed by Endnight Games, balances exploration and combat, offering one of the most immersive and dark worlds of the decade.
TERRARY (2011)

“Terraria” can be described as Minecraft in 2D, but its depth makes it unique. With gameplay focused on exploration, construction and survival, the game challenges players to face enemies and bosses in a procedurally generated world.
The combination of combat, crafting and exploration ensures hours of fun. “Terraria” stands out among the best survival games for their simplicity and depth at the same time.
Frostpunk (2018)

Unlike other games on the list, “Frostpunk” focuses on the survival of an entire society. Developed by 11 Bit Studios, the game combines mechanics of resource management and difficult moral decisions.
Situated in a frozen world, the player must lead a community and make decisions to ensure everyone’s survival. The choices made directly impact the unfolding of the story, making each play uniquely and emotionally engaging.