Project Zomboid is a post-apocalyptical survival game developed by The Indie Stone, and it contains RPG elements that allow players to start off by selecting the best Positive and Negative traits. Project Zomboid's Positive and Negative trait mechanics add a unique take to the survival horror genre, forcing players to select perks that both benefit and hinder themselves in any given run. Ultimately, Project Zomboid runs cannot be started until players have a positive point count, which is actually the opposite of what Positive traits give.
Unlike other survival horror game mechanics, such as Back 4 Blood card builds, Project Zomboid utilizes a balancing scale that requires players to either have a neutral or a positive point distribution. Positive traits, however, tip the scales in Project Zomboid negatively and must be offset by the positive points earned through Negative traits. This ensures that no player is building themselves to be the ultimate overpowered survivor, and even provides players with the opportunity to design their own challenges.
Some traits cost more points than others to equip on a character in Project Zomboid, which players should be mindful of if they choose the higher point Positive traits. Additionally, some Positive and Negative traits cancel one another out in Project Zomboid, which can either provide a somewhat neutral benefit or assist players in the maintenance of their character. Choosing mostly Negative traits will make Project Zomboid a more challenging experience, similar to the Corruption Cards in Back 4 Blood. While there are plenty of Positive and Negative traits to choose from, those who are just beginning may want to stick with the best Positive and Negative starter traits in Project Zomboid for the time being.
Project Zomboid: Best Positive & Negative Starter Traits
These are the best Positive starter traits to choose in Project Zomboid:
- Dextrous (-2): 50% to inventory transferring time.
- Lucky (-4): +10% chance of finding rare loot. -5% chance of failing item repairs.
- Fast Learner (-6): 130% XP for all skills except Strength and Fitness.
- Fit (-6) +2 Fitness.
- Wakeful (-2) -30% less sleep required.
These are the best Negative starter traits to choose in Project Zomboid:
- Underweight (+6): -1 Fitness. Starting weight is 70 and is only present between weights 65 and 75. 80% melee damage. +10% chance to trip by while running, sprint vaulting a low fence, or from lunging zombies. 85% chance to fail a tall fence climb.
- Weak Stomach (+3): 200% chance of food illness. Food illness lasts longer.
- Slow Healer (+6): All of the deadly injuries have more severity, including scratches, lacerations, lodged bullets, deep wounds, bites, and fractures, but does not apply to exercise fatigue.
- Smoker (+4): Stress will constantly slowly rise. Smoking cigarettes will lower the stress level.
- Slow Reader (+2): 70% reading speed.
Project Zomboid is available on PC.