Learn the essentials of 7 Days to Die with our comprehensive beginner's guide. Covers controls, first steps, survival tips, building basics, and combat strategies for new players.
This guide is for new players of 7 Days to Die, assuming a default 'Nomad' preset. If you're completely new, consider the 'First Steps' guide.
7 Days to Die is an open-world survival and crafting game with diverse playstyles. This guide offers advice for inexperienced players.
Terminology
- Zombies: Refers to all humanoid NPC enemies.
- Early Game: The initial phase of gameplay.
- Mid Game: When a player has a safe base, resources, and sufficient weaponry.
- Late Game: When a player is nearly self-sustained and can handle most threats.
- End Game: When a player has a well-defended fortress and is fully self-sustained.
Controls
Game controls can be customized in the Options menu. Basic controls include:
| Action | Key/Button |
|---|---|
| Movement | WASD |
| Jump | SPACE |
| Run | Left Shift (Hold) |
| Crouch/Stealth | C (Hold) or Left Control (Toggle) |
| Primary Action/Attack | Left Click |
| Secondary Action/Aim/Place | Right Click |
| Interact | E (Hold for radial menu) |
| Reload/Take All | R (Hold for radial menu) |
| Drop Item | Q |
| Crafting Window | Tab (Hold for Main UI radial menu) |
| Character Window | B |
| Map Window | M |
| Game Menu/Pause | Esc |
Refer to the full Controls guide for more details.
First Steps
For beginners, playing the prefab map Navezgane is recommended. Avoid spawn settings higher than 'Low' to prevent being overwhelmed by large zombie groups.
The First Day
Immediately begin gathering Small Stones.
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