DESOLATE is a first-person action RPG survival horror game available on PC. Players take on the role of a Volunteer sent to Granichny Island two years after a catastrophic disaster of unknown origin. The island now hosts paranormal threats, abandoned settlements, military bases, and top-secret facilities, all while a conglomerate known as the New Light attempts to contain the fallout through research missions.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on exploration of an open island environment filled with dangers ranging from hostile creatures and armed marauders to supernatural anomalies and erratic weather. Combat allows for direct confrontations or stealth approaches that enable critical strikes from hiding. Researching encountered creatures provides tactical advantages in future encounters by revealing weaknesses or behaviors.
Progression involves unlocking and training abilities that improve survival odds. Players scavenge for recipes and components to craft, modify, and upgrade weapons and gear. Clothing and armor customization comes from items found during expeditions. Physical health requires attention alongside mental condition, as exposure to the island's insanity alters perception of the surroundings and the volunteer's own state.
Notes and diaries scattered across settlements reveal fragments of the island's history, encouraging thorough investigation of every location to piece together past events.
Game Modes
DESOLATE supports solo play for those who prefer independent survival and investigation. In this mode, the volunteer handles all tasks alone, relying on personal skills and resource management to navigate threats.
Cooperative play allows teams of up to four players. Team members gain access to shared abilities, including the option to revive fallen teammates. Coordination improves chances against stronger enemies and during complex research tasks, though the game also accommodates lone-wolf approaches within group sessions.
Exploration and Progression Systems
The island layout encourages repeated visits to different zones, from derelict towns to restricted facilities. Each area contains unique threats and collectibles that tie into the overarching mystery. Ability training forms a skill tree that rewards consistent play, letting players specialize in combat efficiency, stealth, or crafting depth.
Weapon and equipment upgrades follow a component-based system where gathered materials determine available modifications. This creates tangible improvements that scale with exploration progress rather than linear leveling alone.
Is It Worth Playing?
DESOLATE suits players who enjoy first-person survival horror with RPG elements, particularly those drawn to atmospheric exploration and resource-driven progression. The mix of combat options, stealth mechanics, and sanity management adds layers that reward careful planning over run-and-gun tactics.
Reviews on major platforms show mixed reception, with 66 percent positive from over 2,200 user submissions. Positive feedback often highlights the Stalker-inspired atmosphere, crafting depth, and co-op tension, while criticism focuses on occasional technical issues and a steep difficulty curve for newcomers.
The game works best for fans of solo or small-group survival experiences who appreciate uncovering lore through environmental storytelling. Those seeking polished multiplayer shooters or fast-paced action may find the deliberate pace less engaging. Availability on PC remains straightforward with no additional barriers beyond standard system requirements.
