Project Zomboid – Building the Ultimate Metal Fortress: A Survivor’s Journey

Surviving in Project Zomboid is a constant battle against the undead and your own mortality. In this guide, we’ll dive into the detailed process of building a near-impenetrable metal base, transforming a humble RV camp into a fortified stronghold capable of withstanding even the most relentless hordes. From scavenging for resources to fending off waves of zombies, here’s how to create the ultimate apocalypse-proof home.

Step 1: From RV Life to Base Ambitions

Starting off in an RV may be convenient, but it’s far from safe for the long haul. After surviving for a week on the road, it was clear that a permanent base was necessary. The goal? Build a fully fortified metal base at a strategic intersection, offering both security and space for expansion.

Key Resources Needed:

Metal Sheets and Propane: Essential for crafting metal walls.
Wood Planks: For initial wall frames and flooring.
Car Parts: For disassembling to gather metal sheets.

The first task was to sort through the RV’s storage, stockpiling metalworking supplies and propane tanks. With limited experience in metalworking, the next focus was leveling up the skill, which required finding metalworking magazines and disassembling car wrecks.

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Step 2: Scavenging for Knowledge and Resources

With a plan in place, it was time to head into town to gather the necessary blueprints and resources. The nearby bookstore seemed like a promising start, but the streets were swarming with zombies. After a tense firefight and a few close calls, a hasty raid on the bookstore yielded a Metalworking Volume 3 magazine—enough to kickstart base construction.

Step 3: Building the Metal Walls

With the blueprint secured, it was time to get to work. Constructing metal walls required:

Metal Sheets: Found by disassembling car wrecks.
Propane: Essential for welding metal parts together.

Despite a good start, the initial stash of resources was quickly exhausted. A run to the gas station revealed another problem: no power to access propane. This prompted a side quest to find a generator, which was soon discovered in a storage unit, enabling access to much-needed fuel.

Pro Tip:

Install a mod that allows propane to be filled directly at gas stations for a more streamlined resource gathering experience.

Step 4: Leveling Metalworking Skills Efficiently

Disassembling car wrecks served two purposes: gathering metal sheets and leveling the metalworking skill. With each wreck dismantled, skill points accumulated steadily, unlocking more advanced building options like metal gates for the base perimeter.

Step 5: Facing the Horde – Unplanned Obstacles

With the base still under construction, the first horde night arrived unexpectedly. The metal walls held, but the outer gates took a beating. The realization? More defenses were needed, and quickly.

Key Adjustments Made:

Installed Metal Gates: Reinforced the main entrances.
Built a Second Floor: Provided a vantage point to shoot zombies safely.
Constructed Walkways: Allowed for better angles on approaching zombies.

Step 6: Improving Survivability – Food and Weight Management

Survival isn’t just about fighting zombies. The character’s weight had plummeted to dangerous levels, impacting stamina and strength.

Solutions Implemented:

High-Calorie Foods: Focused on consuming stew and other calorie-dense meals.
Rooftop Farm: Established to ensure a steady supply of food.
Animal Traps: Deployed in nearby forests to supplement the diet.

Step 7: Securing Ammunition and Weapons

The next priority was securing enough firepower to fend off future hordes. The local police station turned out to be a bust, but a trip to West Point’s gun store was a goldmine of weapons and ammunition. With a newly acquired industrial propane tank, the supply situation was looking up.

Step 8: Transforming a Shell into a Home

With the external defenses holding strong, it was time to focus on making the base livable.

Furniture Scavenging: Beds, sinks, and even an antique oven were hauled back to the base.
Lighting and Power: Installed a generator to power lights and appliances.
Carpeting and Paint: Added a touch of home to an otherwise sterile metal fortress.

Base Layout Highlights:

First Floor: Garage and storage for tools and supplies.
Second Floor: Living quarters with a bedroom, kitchen, and a lounge area.
Rooftop: Farming area with irrigation and rain collectors.

Step 9: The Final Horde Test

The last and largest horde put everything to the test. With over 300 zombies attacking, it was a true test of the base’s defenses. Strategic barricades made of abandoned cars bought valuable time. With a combination of firearms and careful positioning, the horde was eventually defeated with minimal damage to the walls.

Conclusion: Is a Metal Base Worth It?

After weeks of resource gathering, construction, and combat, the answer is a resounding yes. The metal walls proved nearly indestructible, the rooftop farm secured food supply, and the internal layout ensured efficient access to essential items.

For those seeking a durable and customizable base in Project Zomboid, investing in metalworking and focusing on a strong outer perimeter is a strategy that pays off in spades.