Immersive ocean survival with crafting
Raft by Axolot Games is a survival game for Windows that combines resource management, crafting, and ocean exploration. Players begin on a small, fragile raft and gather floating debris to expand their platform. Raft balances survival mechanics like hunger, thirst, and health with systems for cooking, farming, and crafting tools. Both solo and cooperative multiplayer modes are supported, offering flexibility in how players approach challenges while navigating the open sea and developing a functional, sustainable floating home.
Starting with minimal equipment, players use a hook to collect debris and construct their raft, gradually adding structures, tools, and weapons. Managing essential needs like food, water, and health is critical, while farming and cooking systems enhance survival by producing meals that restore stamina and vitality. Raft’s progression encourages players to expand their platform, improve defenses, and develop sustainable resources, creating a sense of growth as the small initial raft transforms into a livable and functional home on the ocean.
Building, crafting, and sustaining your raft
Cooperative play and ocean exploration
Raft supports online multiplayer co-op, allowing teamwork in gathering resources, building, and defending against threats such as sharks. Coordination with other players adds tactical layers to the survival experience, while single-player mode provides a more solitary, strategic journey. Exploration centers on islands and underwater reefs, where valuable resources and new crafting recipes can be discovered. Research and development mechanics unlock technologies that expand building options, enhancing long-term survival capabilities and strategic planning.
Final thoughts
Raft offers a well-rounded survival experience focused on ocean exploration, crafting, and cooperative play. Its layered systems for farming, cooking, and resource management provide depth, while multiplayer co-op adds dynamic challenges. Environmental variety is somewhat limited, but islands and reefs add points of interest within the largely open ocean. Overall, Raft presents a compelling challenge for Windows players interested in cooperative strategy, resource management, and immersive survival gameplay.
Pros
- Engaging survival mechanics with hunger and thirst systems
- Crafting, farming, and cooking provide depth and progression
- Supports solo and cooperative multiplayer
- Exploration of islands and underwater locations adds variety
Cons
- Environmental variety outside islands is limited
- Repetitive open ocean can feel monotonous over time
- Some progression elements require patience and resource management
