SCUM is a survival game in an open world, developed by the Croatian development studio Gamepires in cooperation with Croteam, and published by Devolver Digital. The game is available through the Steam platform, so far since 2018 as part of the Early Access program, but you can already play the full 1.0 version of the game today. Already after a few hours of playing it is clear that SCUM is not a game for everyone, but for those looking for a challenge, details and realism - this game could be a hit.
Action games withmještena is on fiktivnom otoku (inspiriranom hrvatskim otokom Bračom) koji služi as prisonski kompleks pod upravom korporacije TEC-1. Players assume a role prisonenika koji sudjeluje u brutallym reality showu za masovno gledanje. Goal je preživjeti u okrutnim uvjeteam, boriti se protiv drugih gameča i neprijateljskih NPC-eva (uključujući zombieficirane lutalice zvane "puppetsi"), istraživati otok i – ako je moguće – pobjeći.
What is immediately striking about SCUM is the level of realism and complexity. The game goes way beyond the standard hunger and thirst system. There is an entire metabolism system that monitors calorie intake, vitamins, minerals, hydration, body temperature and more. Every bite and sip of water has an effect on the character. Even bodily functions, such as urination and defecation, must be performed manually. All of this may seem excessive, but it actually contributes to a deep sense of immersion in the game world.
Moving through the environment is also very realistic. The character has limited physical abilities that develop throughout the game – running, jumping and fighting drain stamina and can lead to injury if overdone. Combat can be tense and deadly, especially against other players. Weapons, ammunition and equipment are not readily available, so every find becomes precious. The crafting system is detailed, with a heavy emphasis on improvisation and survival in nature.
Graphically, SCUM makes a strong impression. The island is diverse, with dense vegetation, abandoned military bases, rural settlements and hidden locations. Weather conditions and the cycle of day and night add to the atmosphere. The sounds of nature and the environment are well integrated, and any noise in the forest can mean a potential threat.
In conclusion, the first impressions of SCUM are extremely positive for those who like complex and realistic survival games. Although it is not suitable for casual players due to its complexity, it offers a unique experience that does not have much competition in the market. If you like games that force you to plan, adapt and be resourceful – SCUM is a title that's definitely worth trying.
key differences between SCUM 1.0 and earlier versions:
- SCUM 1.0 finally removes random "puppets" and introduces an encounter system - enemies appear only when you attract them or when you enter certain zones, which brings more exciting and optimized gameplay
- Armed NPCs with intelligent, adaptive behavior are introduced into the game, making the world more alive and dangerous.
- A deep and varied quest system has been created: the player can solve predefined missions or design his own tasks.
- The entire map has been redesigned: POIs have been renewed, new buildings have been added and a more advanced loot system has been reshaped, reshaping the game.
- The anti‑cheat system has been replaced with Easy Anti‑Cheat on BattleEye, for better protection and fair play
- The return of vehicles such as the tractor, seaplane and new vehicles improved mobility, research and bases.
- A new tutorial has been introduced, and with a wipe, all players start from the beginning for an exciting and fair start.
- Visually and technically, the engine has been thoroughly optimized - better graphics, fewer bugs, more stable frame-rate and performance.
A copy of the game for review purposes provided by the development studio Gamepires and the publisher Devolver Digital
