“Survive it: Frozen” is an indie strategy survival game developed and published by Linus Kohler. Released on May 26, 2024, this game challenges players to keep a group of four survivors alive in extreme cold conditions by managing resources, building shelters, and defending against wildlife. Initially, it may seem daunting, but it becomes quite addictive once you get the hang of it. In this review, I will cover the aspects I loved and those I found lacking in “Survive it: Frozen,” along with my overall experience.

“Survive it: Frozen” is a survival game that challenges players to keep a cast of four survivors alive in extreme cold. Players must gather food and wood to build shelters and upgrades while contending with the harsh environment.

One aspect I found both fun and interesting was managing illnesses among the survivors. When a survivor gets sick, you must separate them from the group to prevent the sickness from spreading. However, I feel the duration of the sickness is too long and would benefit from a time limit.

Strategizing to keep my survivors alive was enjoyable. Wolves and bears that attack add a layer of danger, but it would be more rewarding if defeating these animals provided meat or other resources. The constant cold means you’re always losing health unless you stand by a fire. The first aid tent restores health but only works for one person at a time. It would be more effective with an area-of-effect (AOE) healing ability or the option to choose which survivor to heal without exposing the rest of the group to the cold.

The story is straightforward: get to the chopper, which is located in the middle of the map. I appreciate how each character has their own unique abilities and styles, adding depth to the gameplay, with that being said though the characters are completely random with no back story which takes aways from the experience.

Graphics, Music, and Multiplayer

The graphics are low-poly, and while the level design is small, it offers a lot of content. The music is fun and funky, fitting well with the game’s style. There is a multiplayer option, but I found it difficult to find other players in the lobby. Hopefully, this will improve as the game gains popularity.

Potential and Challenges

Considering that this is Linus Kohler’s first game published on Steam, it’s a commendable effort. “Survive it: Frozen” is exciting to play if you enjoy a challenge. Personally, I never lasted more than 10 minutes, but that didn’t stop me from trying again and again, driven by my own stubbornness, I suppose. The game definitely has potential to be great. An easy, normal, or hard difficulty option for single-player would help with the learning curve, as you are currently dropped into the camp with little guidance and have to figure things out by reading the tutorial. I look forward to seeing more from Linus Kohler, as we at The Library sense great potential in you.

Recommend: Yes

Price: Free / DLC, $4,99

Rating: 8