Mastering the Basics of "Surviving the Aftermath": 5 Essential Tips for New Players

"Surviving the Aftermath" is a post-apocalyptic survival game that challenges players to build and manage a colony in a world devastated by disaster. After eyeing the game for some time, I finally got my hands on a free copy, thanks to the Epic Store promo. This guide, as outlined below was provided in the above tutorial by @PartyElire, aims to equip new players with essential strategies and insights to thrive in this unforgiving environment. 

Hoping you may find it useful as much as I did.

Understanding the Game 

At its core, "Surviving the Aftermath" is about resource management, strategic planning, and adapting to unforeseen challenges. Whether you're dealing with natural calamities, hostile bandits, or resource scarcity, your decisions will significantly impact the survival of your colony. 

Key Strategies for Success 

1. Emphasize Storage and Resource Management 

• Storage is Critical: Differentiate between producing resources and storing them. Adequate storage for essential resources like water and energy is crucial for weathering disasters. 
• Know Your Indicators: Pay attention to the user interface, especially for water and energy. These indicators show surplus production, not the amount stored. Always aim for a surplus to cover consumption during shortages. 

2. Optimize Workforce Allocation 

• Balancing Roles: Properly distribute your colonists between workers and carriers. Workers perform specialized tasks, while carriers handle resource transportation, building, and repairs. 
• Cycle Workers Efficiently: Assign workers to critical tasks like water collection only when necessary. Free them up for other jobs once storage targets are met, but be ready to reassign as the situation changes. 

3. Strategic Exploration and Expansion 

• Utilize Scout Towers: Build scout towers at your colony's perimeter to reveal unexplored areas. This proactive exploration helps in locating essential resources before an urgent need arises. 
• Expand Wisely: The further you build from your base, the slower the scouting process. Plan your expansion strategically to manage time and resources effectively. 

4. Defensive Tactics and Combat 

• Utilize Stacked Fighters: When engaging bandits, deploy multiple specialists to a single target for efficiency. This strategy minimizes damage and speeds up combat resolution. 
• Manage Guard Towers and Gates: Man these structures only when facing imminent threats. Prepare for major attacks but avoid unnecessary allocation of manpower during peace times. 

5. Maximize Vehicle Usage 

• Enhance Exploration with Vehicles: Vehicles provide additional range and speed, crucial for effective exploration and resource gathering. They operate on separate action points from specialists, allowing for extended movement. 
• Maintain Your Vehicles: Regular maintenance is key. Damaged vehicles are less efficient, hindering your exploration and resource transportation efforts. 

6. Adapt and Overcome 

• Flexible Strategies: The game’s dynamics require players to be adaptable. Regularly assess your colony's needs and adjust your strategies accordingly. 
• Continuous Resource Monitoring: Always keep an eye on your resources. A well-balanced approach between consumption and production is vital for sustainability. 

Advanced Tips for Experienced Players 

As you progress, delve into more complex aspects like trade, diplomacy, and advanced technology research. These elements can provide significant advantages and open up new avenues for colony development. 

"Surviving the Aftermath" presents a challenging yet rewarding experience. By mastering these fundamental strategies and continuously adapting to the game’s evolving challenges, players can build a thriving colony capable of withstanding the harsh realities of a post-apocalyptic world.