Permafrost Wildlife and Hunting Systems: Surviving the Frozen Woods

The shattered moon has plunged Earth into a permanent winter, but the wilderness in Permafrost is far from dead. SpaceRocket Games has detailed the diverse wildlife players will encounter while exploring the frozen world. The animals you meet will either be vital resources for your survival or immediate threats to your life.

Wildlife in the Frozen Apocalypse

Wild animals in the game fall into two main categories:

• Skittish Wildlife: Rabbits, foxes, moose, and deer roam the forests. These creatures are cautious and will flee at the first sign of danger, making stealth and patience essential during a hunt.
• Aggressive Predators: Boars, wolves, bears, bison, and muskoxen are highly dangerous. These animals will attack on sight, turning a simple exploration trip into a fight for survival.

Weapons and Harvesting Mechanics

To survive the cold, hunting is mandatory. Players can use almost any weapon to bring down prey, ranging from axes and improvised shivs to bows and firearms.

Bows offer a silent, precise kill that avoids alerting nearby enemies or spooking other animals. In contrast, firearms deliver massive stopping power but come at a high noise cost and require valuable ammunition.

Once an animal is down, the work is not complete. Players need a shiv to harvest resources. Skinning animals yields meat for food and hides for crafting warm clothing. For players looking to show off their hunting achievements, these resources can also be used to craft Animal Head Trophies to decorate their shelters.

The Woods: Tundra, Traps, and the Moon Cult

Outside the relative safety of the city ruins lies “The Woods,” a transitional zone that serves as both a prime hunting ground and a highly dangerous area. The deep snow in this biome slows movement and limits visibility, making exposure to the cold just as deadly as the wildlife.

To hunt efficiently in the Woods, players can place traps along active game trails. However, wildlife is not the only threat in this forest. The Woods hide a military bunker that has been seized by the hostile “Moon Cult.” Patrols from this faction roam the area, defending their claimed territory against survivors.

Whether exploring the Woods alone or surviving with friends, staying prepared is key. The game supports solo play or up to four players in online co-op. With the August 21 early access launch approaching, mastering these hunting mechanics and crafting proper tools using the crafting guide will be crucial for survival. Refer to the beginner survival guide to prepare your character for the freezing conditions.