Conan Exiles stands out as a multiplayer survival game set in the harsh Exiled Lands of the Conan the Barbarian universe, where players fight to survive, build, and dominate in a vast open world.
Gameplay
In Conan Exiles, the core loop revolves around gathering resources to craft tools, weapons, and structures while managing basic needs like hunger, thirst, and temperature. Players harvest materials from the environment to build everything from simple shelters to sprawling cities, using a flexible building system that supports various architectural styles drawn from the game's lore.
Combat plays a central role, with improved mechanics that include climbing surfaces for tactical advantages and deploying siege weapons during conflicts. Thralls, which are captured NPCs, can be recruited to defend bases or assist in tasks, adding depth to resource management and defense strategies. Dynamic weather systems, such as sandstorms and temperature changes, force players to adapt their approaches, while features like farming and pet leveling provide ways to sustain long-term settlements.
The game incorporates a journey system that guides progression through milestones, unlocking perks and abilities. Exploration reveals world bosses, ancient ruins, and corrupted sorcery, blending survival elements with light narrative threads tied to religions like Derketo and Jhebbal Sag.
Game Modes
Conan Exiles supports three main game modes to suit different playstyles. Multiplayer mode allows players to join servers where they can team up or compete with others in real-time, engaging in player-versus-player combat or cooperative building projects.
Coop mode enables small groups to play together on a shared world, focusing on collaboration without the broader server interactions. Single-player mode offers a solo experience, letting individuals explore and build at their own pace without external interference.
Key Mechanics and Features
Beyond basic survival, the game includes systems like the Purge, where waves of enemies attack player bases to test defenses. Mounts and pets add mobility and companionship, with inventories and leveling mechanics that enhance their utility. Fast travel options and battle standards help in coordinating large-scale engagements.
Newer additions bring proximity voice chat for immersive interactions, along with expanded crafting recipes for weapons, armors, and building pieces. These elements create a layered experience where strategy in resource allocation and base design determines success.
Is It Worth Playing?
Conan Exiles has earned a Metascore of 68 and a user score of 5.5, reflecting mixed reception centered on its steep learning curve and occasional technical issues, balanced by praise for its addictive building and exploration. The game received a major free update in 2026, shifting to Unreal Engine 5 for better visuals and performance, including features like direct map travel and multiple save slots.
This update has refreshed the experience, making it smoother on modern hardware. It suits players who enjoy deep survival mechanics and creative freedom in a multiplayer setting, though those seeking quick action might find the slow pace frustrating. If you thrive on long-term progression and community-driven worlds, Conan Exiles remains a solid choice, especially with ongoing support keeping the game active.
