Go BackHow to Play Rust: A Beginner's Guide to Survival
By Gabriele Asaro
2 min read
Updated on

How to Play Rust: A Beginner's Guide to Survival

As a seasoned Rust player, I've learned the ins and outs of this challenging survival game. If you're wondering how to play Rust, you're in for an intense experience. The objective is simple: survive in a harsh wilderness using whatever you can gather or steal.

Here's my first-hand guide to getting started.

First, choose a beginner-friendly server. This will give you a chance to learn the ropes without constant threats from experienced players. Once you're in, create a sleeping bag immediately. This serves as your respawn point if (when) you die.

Gathering resources is crucial. When collecting wood and stone, hit the right spots to maximize your yield. I prioritize wood early on, as it's essential for crafting basic items and building your first shelter.

Speaking of shelter, choosing the right location for your base is very important. I look for areas with nearby resources and some natural cover. Don't build too close to high-traffic areas or monuments, as these attract raiders.

As you build, remember to use double doors. This extra layer of security can save your loot from raiders. Also, keep an eye on your base's decay timer and regularly maintain it to prevent collapse.

When it comes to farming resources, I've learned not to overdo it. Only gather what you need, as excess resources make you a target. If you must farm more, do it in short bursts and quickly secure your loot.

Survival isn't just about building and gathering. You'll need to manage your hunger, thirst, and health. Be cautious of radiation zones, which can quickly kill you if you're unprepared.

As you gain confidence, try your hand at PvP combat. Practice building on modded servers to improve your base designs. Start with a basic 2x2 structure and gradually expand. Always look for potential weaknesses in your design that raiders could exploit.

One strategy I've found effective is maintaining multiple bases. Have a main base for your primary loot and a separate "flank" base for PvP items and as a decoy. This spreads out your risk and can confuse potential raiders.

Remember, learning how to play Rust takes time and patience. You'll die often, lose everything frequently, but each time you'll learn something new. That's the beauty of the game – every experience makes you a better survivor.

I also recommend you to watch the following video.

Gabriele AsaroAbout the author

Gabriele Asaro
Gabriele Asaro

I'm the Head of Research at RustClash. With over 5 years of experience in the Rust niche, I have developed extensive knowledge of the game, its strategies, and the competitive scene. My insights are based on years of in-depth analysis and close involvement with the Rust community.