A new Open-World Survival RPG feels like Rust and The Last of Us combined

Survival games are ubiquitous these days, and an upcoming entry in the genre, Ardemaiming for success by channeling some serious Last of us and Rust vibes. Developed and published by indie outfit Techtive Games, the game is currently in open alpha, with an early access version expected to arrive sometime in 2026.

The PvPvE survival space is defined in some ways by Rust. A relatively early game in the genre, Rust has captured the attention and imagination of gamers around the world since its early access release in 2013. What sets it apart from other mainstream survival games like Subnautica and The forest is its scope and ambition: you start small, but eventually can create complex, sprawling bases, participate in massive PvP events, and launch raids with other players. But Rust has a decidedly industrial, semi-junkpunk aesthetic, as well as a greater emphasis on action and MMO features; these are areas there Ardem deviates from this potential inspiration, with the Steam game's edge somewhat closer The last of usat least in terms of presentation.

Ardem captures rust's dynamic open-world survival mechanics

First things first: what exactly is Ardem? Techtive describes it as “an immersive open-world survival RPG,” which seems straightforward enough, but the game is more ambitious and feature-rich than the short elevator pitch suggests. Here is a list of Ardems key features and systems, according to the game's Steam page:

• 64 km² fully handcrafted world with hundreds of unique locations to explore.

• The player's actions permanently change the conditions and structures of the world.

• Different enemy types with unique behaviors and attack patterns.

• Deep base building system with exceptional creative freedom.

• Hundreds of items to customize and decorate your shelter.

• Dynamic electrical system with multiple power sources and areas of use.

• Innovative vehicle system with upgrades, modules and customizable accessories.

• Fully customizable weapon system with accessories and modifications.

• Fully customizable character system for appearance, equipment and playstyle.

• Dynamic temperature and clothing system that realistically simulates weather, warmth and protection.

• Grow crops, hunt wild animals and fish to survive.

• Play solo, co-op or online with up to 64 players per server.

• Host your own server and customize your experience. PvE, PvP or RPG, your choice.

So, like Rust, Ardem takes place in a massive open world that can be adapted and shaped by the collective will of the players. But while Rust has much more of an action FPS focus, with raids and dedicated PvP events, as well as overarching gameplay loops that encourage combat, Ardem is positioned as a bit slower and more survival oriented. Maintaining vehicles, establishing consistent food sources, and reconnecting power grids are the activities that make up the bulk of the game loop, rather than gunfire.

This shift in priorities is reflected in Ardems overall aesthetic, which is at once more grounded and more fantastical than Rustpp. There are zombie NPCs Ardem for the player to worry about, but the game's setting isn't a mysterious, war-torn island as Rustpp. Rather, Ardem focuses on the everyday and familiar, which brings it closer in line with the tone and visual style. The last of us.

Ardem Shares The Last of Us' Tranquil Apocalyptic Flair

What is immediately striking Ardem is how peaceful it seems – until you see zombies, of course. But despite bloodthirsty undead, the game channels a kind of terrible beauty: nature has taken over, plants creep over the walls of ruined buildings, and trees sprout in what were once living rooms, offices, bedrooms. There is a solitary characteristic Ardems world, which informs its wider approach to gaming.

It is telling that the overwhelming majority of Ardems promotional content focuses on exploration, crafting and survival, rather than combat. This world is one where humanity is no longer the dominant species, and must scavenge, improvise and adapt to survive. This kind of thoughtful solitude is something that games like The last of us and State of decay popularized. It's a familiar world, but also a barren, brutalized one.

Ardem's early access will let players take it through their paces

I would be remiss if I didn't mention another game that Ardem reminds of: The day before. Arguably the biggest failure of 2023, The day before received a rare 1/10 rating from IGN as a result of its half-baked game system, terrible enemy AI, empty world, and ham-fisted multiplayer. It was also clearly inspired by The last of usand also had an apparent focus on craftsmanship and customization.

But The day before was a unique flop whose developmental conditions are still not fully understood. Ardem has had a much more transparent release strategy, offering plentiful updates and even allowing players to go hands-on via playtests. Its persistent open world, clear focus on survival and RPG elements, and manageable ambitions give it a much greater chance of success compared to The day beforenot to mention countless others Last of us-inspired open world zombie games littering the Steam market. When it's released in Early Access, the public will be able to decide Ardems quality for themselves, but until then it looks like a game to be tentatively excited about.