Rust (video game)
{{short description|2018 survival video game}}
{{pp-vandalism|small=yes}}
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{{Use dmy dates|date=March 2023}}
{{Use British English|date=February 2016}}
{{Infobox video game
| title = Rust
| image = File:Rust vector logo.svg
| developer = {{plainlist|
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| publisher = Facepunch Studios
| engine = Unity
| platforms = {{Unbulleted list|macOS|Windows|PlayStation 4|Xbox One}}
| released = {{Unbulleted list|macOS, Windows|8 February 2018|PlayStation 4, Xbox One|21 May 2021}}
| genre = Survival
| modes = Multiplayer
| director =
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Rust is a multiplayer survival video game developed by Facepunch Studios. It was first released in early access in December 2013 and received its full release in February 2018. Rust is available on Windows and macOS. Console versions for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One developed in conjunction with Double Eleven were released in May 2021. Rust was initially created as a clone of DayZ, a popular mod for ARMA 2, with crafting elements akin to those in Minecraft.
The objective of Rust is to survive in the wilderness using gathered or stolen materials. Players must successfully manage their hunger, thirst, and health, or risk dying. Despite the presence of hostile animals such as bears and wolves, the primary threat to the player is other players due to the game being solely multiplayer. Combat is accomplished through firearms and various weapons, such as bows. In addition, vehicles controlled by non-player characters will occasionally roam, attacking armed players. Rust features crafting, though initially limited until the discovery of specific items in the game's open world. To stay protected, players must build bases or join clans to improve their chance of survival. Raiding is a major aspect of Rust. Rust supports modded servers which can add additional content.
Rust was first released in December 2013 to the Steam Early Access program. During this period of development, the gameplay was changed significantly. Dangerous wildlife replaced zombies as the primary environmental threat and several fundamental revisions to the crafting system were released, along with general improvements and feature additions. While in Early Access, Rust was ported to the Unity 5 game engine, providing substantial graphical changes. The game also introduced immutable, predetermined skin colour and biological sex tied to players' Steam account details. Despite being fully released, the game continues to receive updates.
Throughout Rust{{'}}s alpha release, critical reviews were mixed, with many comparisons made to other survival games. Rust was commonly explained as being a mixture of DayZ and Minecraft. During this period, reviewers frequently noted the game's unfinished nature. During its pre-release phase, critics praised the concept and gameplay and by March 2017, Rust had sold over five million copies. After leaving Early Access, it received mixed reviews from critics. The player vs player combat and survival aspects were highlighted by those who enjoyed the game, though reviewers were critical of the harsh beginner experience and the constant need to grind for materials. The game has continued to be successful post-release and has been listed as one of the best survival games.
Gameplay
File:Collecting wood in Rust.jpeg
As a multiplayer-only video game,{{cite web|title=5 Video Games to Play if You Like 'Minecraft'|url=http://www.cheatsheet.com/entertainment/5-video-games-to-play-if-you-like-minecraft.html/4/|access-date=1 July 2015|website=CheatSheet|first=Chris|date=30 June 2015|last=Reed|page=4|url-status=live|archive-date=21 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921085950/http://www.cheatsheet.com/entertainment/5-video-games-to-play-if-you-like-minecraft.html/4/}} Rust pits players against each other in a harsh, open world environment with the sole goal of survival. Animals, such as wolves and bears, act as a looming threat, but the primary danger comes from other players. Most maps are procedurally generated, with the exception of some pre-built maps. When beginning, a player only has a rock and a torch. The rock can cut down trees, break apart stones, and be used as a weapon. Cloth and food can be gathered by killing animals; mining provides stone, metal ore, and sulfur ore; and chopping down trees provides wood.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.pcgamer.com/rust-guide-survival/|title=Rust guide: Surviving your first day|date=23 January 2014|access-date=1 July 2015|archive-date=21 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921085959/http://www.pcgamer.com/rust-guide-survival/|url-status=live|magazine=PC Gamer|publisher=Future plc|last=Chalk|first=Andy}} To survive in the world, the player must gather resources and use them to craft tools, weapons, and other gear.{{cite web|url-status=live|archive-date=21 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921085957/http://www.ign.com/articles/2014/01/08/in-rust-your-best-friend-is-a-rock|url=http://au.ign.com/articles/2014/01/08/in-rust-your-best-friend-is-a-rock|title=In Rust, Your Best Friend is a Rock|date=8 January 2014|access-date=1 July 2015|website=IGN|last=MacDonald|first=Keza}}{{cite magazine|url=https://www.pcgamer.com/rust-diary-part-2-its-hard-to-kill-a-half-naked-jumping-man/|title=Rust diary, part 2: 'It's hard to kill a naked jumping man'|first1=Christopher|last1=Livingston|magazine=PC Gamer|publisher=Future plc|date=26 March 2014|access-date=1 July 2015|archive-date=21 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921090301/http://www.pcgamer.com/rust-diary-part-2-its-hard-to-kill-a-half-naked-jumping-man/|url-status=live}} To craft items, the player must have a sufficient amount of all required materials, with advanced items needing more obscure components scattered around the map.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.pcgamer.com/latest-rust-update-removes-xp-and-levelling/|title=Latest Rust update removes XP and levelling|first=Mat|last=Paget|date=7 November 2016|access-date=7 November 2016|url-status=live|archive-date=7 November 2016|magazine=PC Gamer|publisher=Future plc|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161107055932/http://www.pcgamer.com/latest-rust-update-removes-xp-and-levelling/}} There are limitations imposed on the amount of craftable items, with blueprints allowing the creation of more advanced items.
The player must stay fed or they will die of starvation. There are other challenges the player must overcome during gameplay, such as drowning, hypothermia, and wildlife attacks—primarily bears and wolves. Specific locales around the map are radioactive, with four levels of radiation: minor, low, medium, and high. The correct armour or clothing must be worn to enter these areas; failure to do so can result in death. Upon death, a screen with an option to respawn at a random location or at a sleeping bag or bed (placed prior to death) appears. Respawning resets the player's inventory to the basic rock and torch. Rust is sometimes played in a "clan". Clans usually create housing for their members, give items and supplies to each other and partake in organised raiding and looting.{{cite web|url-status=live|url=http://au.ign.com/articles/2014/02/19/rust-letters-on-deception-destruction-grief-and-griefing|title=Rust Letters: On Deception, Destruction, Grief, and Griefing|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180831040229/http://www.ign.com/articles/2014/02/19/rust-letters-on-deception-destruction-grief-and-griefing|archive-date=31 August 2018|access-date=31 August 2018|date=19 February 2014|website=IGN|publisher=Ziff Davis|first1=Mitch|last1=Dyer|first2=Shawn|last2=Elliott}}{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2014-01-17-the-mod-squad-facepunchs-garry-newman-on-rust|website=Gamesindustry.biz|publisher=Gamer Network|title='Rust has made about 40% of what GMod made in 9 years'|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180831040219/https://www.gamesindustry.biz/articles/2014-01-17-the-mod-squad-facepunchs-garry-newman-on-rust|archive-date=31 August 2018|access-date=31 August 2018|date=20 January 2014|first=Dan|last=Pearson|url-status=live}} Player vs player (PvP) combat is accomplished with bows, melee weapons and craftable guns.{{cite web|url=https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2014/03/28/rust-diary/|title=To Hell With Other People: Nine Lives in Rust|access-date=22 October 2016|archive-date=22 October 2016|website=Rock, Paper, Shotgun|date=28 March 2014|first=Brendan|last=Caldwell|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161022050252/https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2014/03/28/rust-diary/|url-status=live}} Bullets and other projectiles travel in a ballistic trajectory, rather than being hitscan.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.pcgamer.com/a-new-rust-update-promises-to-make-the-gunplay-feel-more-like-a-traditional-fps/|title=A new Rust update promises to make the gunplay feel more like a 'traditional' FPS|access-date=16 June 2017|date=5 June 2017|magazine=PC Gamer|publisher=Future plc|first=Andy|last=Chalk|url-status=live|archive-date=16 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170616112622/http://www.pcgamer.com/a-new-rust-update-promises-to-make-the-gunplay-feel-more-like-a-traditional-fps/}}{{cite web|url=https://rust.facepunch.com/blog/devblog-163/|title=Devblog 163|date=7 June 2017|access-date=1 September 2018|publisher=Facepunch Studios|url-status=live|archive-date=1 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180901005606/https://rust.facepunch.com/blog/devblog-163/}} There are a number of different types of bullet for each gun, including high velocity and explosive,{{cite web|url=https://rust.facepunch.com/blog/devblog-63/|archive-date=29 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180829175331/https://rust.facepunch.com/blog/devblog-63/|title=Devblog 63|publisher=Facepunch|date=4 June 2015|first1=Garry|last1=Newman|first2=Maurino|last2=Berry|first3=André|last3=Straubmeier|first4=Petur|last4=Agust|first5=Thomas|last5=Butters|first6=Vincent|last6=Mayeur|first7=Paul|last7=Bradley|first8=Diogo|last8=Teixeira|first9=Alex|last9=Rehberg|access-date=29 August 2018|url-status=live}} thus allowing for more diverse strategy.{{cite news|url=https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2016/03/07/rust-review-early-access/|title=Premature Evaluation: Rust|last=Zacny|first=Rob|date=7 March 2016|website=Rock Paper Shotgun|archive-url=https://archive.today/20160921092550/https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2016/03/07/rust-review-early-access/|archive-date=21 September 2016|url-status=live|access-date=28 June 2016}} Hit tracking calculates damage; shots to the head are more damaging than shots to other parts of the body.{{cite news|url=https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2015/08/17/rust-tweaks-gunplay/|archive-date=31 August 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180831035154/https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2015/08/17/rust-tweaks-gunplay/|url-status=live|title=Lubed: Rust Tackles Its Creaky Gunplay|website=Rock Paper Shotgun|access-date=31 August 2018|date=17 August 2015|first=Alice|last=O'Connor}} The use of weapon attachments, such as holographic sights, provide an advantage over opponents.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.pcgamer.com/streaming-rust-just-got-safer-with-new-streamer-mode/|title=Streaming Rust just got safer with new Streamer Mode|access-date=22 October 2016|archive-date=22 October 2016|url-status=live|magazine=PC Gamer|publisher=Future plc|first=Shaun|last=Prescott|date=21 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161022052949/http://www.pcgamer.com/streaming-rust-just-got-safer-with-new-streamer-mode/}}
There are player-operable vehicles in Rust. Boats are used to traverse long distances across water and reach valuable loot.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.pcgamer.com/rusts-first-player-controlled-vehicle-has-arrived-and-its-a-boat/|title=Rust's first player-controlled vehicle has arrived, and it's a boat|date=7 April 2018|access-date=25 June 2018|magazine=PC Gamer|publisher=Future plc|first=Christopher|last=Livingston|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180408120110/https://www.pcgamer.com/rusts-first-player-controlled-vehicle-has-arrived-and-its-a-boat/|archive-date=8 April 2018}} Some airborne vehicles, such as hot air balloons, can also be used to explore the map quickly. Spawning randomly, they can be used once fueled. These player-controlled vehicles, and unlike the offensive AI entities, can be destroyed by surface-to-air missiles that players can position outside bases.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.pcgamer.com/rust-now-has-hot-air-balloons-and-missiles-that-can-shoot-them-down/|title=Rust now has hot air balloons and missiles that can shoot them down|first=Christopher|last=Livingston|access-date=8 November 2018|date=3 November 2018|magazine=PC Gamer|publisher=Future plc|archive-date=8 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181108065752/https://www.pcgamer.com/rust-now-has-hot-air-balloons-and-missiles-that-can-shoot-them-down/|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://rust.facepunch.com/blog/february-update|title=The Air Power Update|date=7 February 2019|website=Facepunch|language=en|access-date=9 May 2019|archive-date=9 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190509122359/https://rust.facepunch.com/blog/february-update|url-status=live}} Similarly, the player can transport themselves and others using modular vehicles found while exploring. Vehicle chassis are situated on roadsides and must be sufficiently repaired and fitted with an engine before use.{{cite web|url=https://www.vg247.com/2020/07/08/rust-how-to-repair-and-upgrade-modular-vehicles/|title=Rust: How to repair and upgrade Modular Vehicles|work=VG 24/7|first=Lauren|last=Aitken|date=8 July 2020|access-date=17 February 2021|archive-date=16 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210416181811/https://www.vg247.com/2020/07/08/rust-how-to-repair-and-upgrade-modular-vehicles/|url-status=live}}
Airdrops are an important element in Rust. These are parachute-equipped pallets of supplies delivered by a prop plane. They can be seen over extremely long distances, sometimes resulting in players running toward the airdrop.{{cite news|url=https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2014/01/07/impressions-rust/|title=Impressions: Rust|first=Rich|last=Stanton|date=7 January 2014|access-date=22 October 2016|website=Rock Paper Shotgun|archive-date=22 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161022045920/https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2014/01/07/impressions-rust/|url-status=live}} There are also other entities that drop advanced loot, including an attack helicopter and the CH-47 Chinook. Both of these travel randomly around the map and attempt to kill players. The Chinook additionally travels to a randomly picked monument{{emdash}}automatically generated structures guarded by violent NPCs{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/rust-map/|work=GamesRadar|access-date=14 May 2021|title=Rust map guide|archive-date=2 November 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211102131652/https://www.gamesradar.com/rust-map/|url-status=live}}{{emdash}}found in the game world and drops a locked supply crate that opens after a length of time, inviting PvP interactions.{{cite news|url=https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2018/04/06/rust-adds-boasts/|title=Rust adds boats, improves forests, deploys choppers|first=Alice|last=O'Connor|date=6 April 2018|access-date=25 June 2018|website=Rock Paper Shotgun|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180615005552/https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2018/04/06/rust-adds-boasts/|archive-date=15 June 2018}} Compounds are safezones that provide players with a place to trade resources, overlooked by automated high-damage auto turrets that fire on anyone who draws a weapon, discouraging betrayal. Additionally, these treacherous players will be marked as hostile to NPCs for a predetermined amount of time.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.pcgamer.com/rust-gets-a-safe-zone-in-the-new-compound-update/|title=Rust gets a safe zone in the new Compound Update|date=4 May 2018|access-date=25 June 2018|magazine=PC Gamer|publisher=Future plc|first=Andy|last=Chalk|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180506225405/https://www.pcgamer.com/rust-gets-a-safe-zone-in-the-new-compound-update/|archive-date=6 May 2018}}
Development
File:Rust version comparison.jpg
Rust{{'}}s development began as a clone of DayZ, a popular survival mod for ARMA 2, featuring elements derived from Minecraft.{{cite web|url=http://playrust.com/about/|title=About Rust|publisher=Facepunch Studios|access-date=30 June 2015|archive-date=27 June 2017|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170627160841/http://playrust.com/about/}} Garry Newman, the CEO of Facepunch Studios, said "Rust started off as a DayZ clone. But then we decided that we are sick of fighting zombies. And can't compete with the Arma island in terms of landmarks and towns."{{cite web|url=http://garry.tv/2013/06/21/the-story-of-rust/|title=The Story of Rust|date=21 June 2013|first1=Garry|last1=Newman|access-date=30 June 2015|publisher=garry.tv|archive-date=21 September 2016|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921083229/https://garry.tv/2013/06/21/the-story-of-rust/}} Consequently, Newman described the game as being more along the lines of entries in the S.T.A.L.K.E.R series. Facepunch released the game onto the Steam Early Access program on 11 December 2013. Following its alpha launch, Facepunch actively released updates for Rust adding mechanics like animals, hunting, armour and weapons. In February 2014, the developers removed zombies, a temporary enemy, from Rust, replacing them with red mutant bears and wolves.{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/there-are-no-more-zombies-in-rust/1100-6417584/|title=There are no more zombies in Rust|access-date=18 May 2014|first1=Martin|last1=Gaston|date=7 February 2014|website=GameSpot|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921090304/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/there-are-no-more-zombies-in-rust/1100-6417584/|archive-date=21 September 2016|url-status=live}} Early on developers made the choice not to try to populate the world with interesting locations to explore, but rather provide the ability to create them. Newman described it as "we give them the tools, they make the world".{{cite magazine|last1=Kelly|first1=Andy|title=Garry Newman interview: on Rust and player freedom 'we give them the tools, they make the world'|url=http://www.pcgamer.com/rust-interview/|magazine=PC Gamer|date=8 January 2014|publisher=Future plc|access-date=13 February 2016|archive-date=21 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921090313/http://www.pcgamer.com/rust-interview/|url-status=live}} One of the developers' aims was to create a world which does not encourage any particular kind of behaviour from players. They considered implementing a system like DayZ{{'}}s where those who kill other players get unique outfits which identify them as 'bandits', or possibly a rating or colour-coded system. However, the developers ultimately rejected these ideas, believing they would detract from player freedom. Instead, they found to their surprise that the implementation of voice chat had a noticeable effect on player behaviour. With the ability to communicate, many players would no longer kill each other on sight out of fear.
In late 2014, developers released an experimental mode of Rust and ported it to a then-unreleased game engine, Unity 5, enhancing the graphics, and in turn, improving the shader mechanics and texture realism,{{cite web|url=https://blogs.unity3d.com/2014/11/19/porting-to-unity-5-the-untold-rust-journey/|title=Porting to Unity 5 – The Untold Rust Journey|publisher=Unity Blog|access-date=31 August 2018|first=Christopher|last=Pope|date=19 November 2014|archive-date=31 August 2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180831024215/https://blogs.unity3d.com/2014/11/19/porting-to-unity-5-the-untold-rust-journey/}} as well as allowed for larger procedurally generated worlds. The experimental mode featured a new anti-cheat system called CheatPunch, which banned thousands of players within a few days.{{cite web|url-status=live|url=http://www.develop-online.net/news/facepunch-bans-more-than-4-500-rust-players/0189163|title=Facepunch bans more than 4,500 Rust players|archive-date=21 September 2016|date=12 February 2014|access-date=21 September 2016|website=Develop|publisher=NewBay Media|first=Craig|last=Chapple|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921093821/http://www.develop-online.net/news/facepunch-bans-more-than-4-500-rust-players/0189163}} In October 2014, the experimental mode became the default launch option.{{cite web|url=http://playrust.com/experimental-launches-by-default/|url-status=live|archive-date=21 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921090947/https://playrust.com/experimental-launches-by-default/|first1=Garry|last1=Newman|publisher=Facepunch Studios|date=1 October 2014|title=Experimental Launches By Default|access-date=9 October 2014}} Shortly after, in December, EasyAntiCheat, a third-party anti-cheat system, replaced CheatPunch.{{cite web|url=http://rust.facepunch.com/blog/devblog-40/#more-2280|title=Devblog 40|publisher=Facepunch|date=28 December 2014|access-date=26 June 2017|archive-date=26 June 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170626125217/http://rust.facepunch.com/blog/devblog-40/#more-2280}} In early 2015, Rust added a feature that decided each player's skin colour based on their Steam ID.{{cite web|url=https://www.kotaku.com.au/2015/03/rust-chooses-players-race-for-them-things-get-messy/|title=Rust Chooses Players' Race For Them, Things Get Messy|first=Nathan|last=Grayson|website=Kotaku|publisher=Gizmodo Media Group|access-date=27 June 2018|date=26 March 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627173133/https://www.kotaku.com.au/2015/03/rust-chooses-players-race-for-them-things-get-messy/|archive-date=27 June 2018|url-status=dead}}
In the original game, the heads-up display featured statistics like as health, hunger and radiation level.{{cite web|url=http://www.usgamer.net/articles/rust-a-beginners-survival-guide|title=Rust Guide: How to Get Started, Beginners Hints and Tips|date=24 January 2014|access-date=1 July 2015|publisher=Eurogamer|last=Williams|first=Mike|website=USgamer|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921090017/http://www.usgamer.net/articles/rust-a-beginners-survival-guide|archive-date=21 September 2016}} These were later modified and hidden statistics such as hypothermia were added. Monuments went through a phase where developers removed the radiation hazards because of the annoyance it was causing.{{cite web|url=http://rust.facepunch.com/blog/devblog-71/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921090957/https://playrust.com/devblog-71/|archive-date=21 September 2016|title=Devblog 71|access-date=16 January 2016|publisher=Facepunch Studios|date=30 July 2015|first=Craig|last=Pearson}}{{cite web|url=http://rust.facepunch.com/blog/devblog-77/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921091001/https://playrust.com/devblog-77/|archive-date=21 September 2016|title=Devblog 77|access-date=16 January 2016|publisher=Facepunch Studios|date=10 September 2015|first=Craig|last=Pearson}} Female models, added to the game shortly afterward, were initially only available for server administrators to test.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.pcgamer.com/female-models-come-to-rust-but-only-for-admins/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150728064842/http://www.pcgamer.com/female-models-come-to-rust-but-only-for-admins/|title=Female models come to Rust, but only for admins|first1=Andy|last1=Chalk|date=16 July 2015|access-date=28 July 2015|archive-date=28 July 2015|publisher=Future plc|magazine=PC Gamer}} Upon rollout, akin to skin colour, players were automatically assigned a biological sex permanently linked to their Steam account.{{cite web|url=http://america.aljazeera.com/opinions/2015/5/the-online-game-that-proves-the-web-is-not-a-post-racial-utopia.html|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921090953/http://america.aljazeera.com/opinions/2015/5/the-online-game-that-proves-the-web-is-not-a-post-racial-utopia.html|archive-date=21 September 2016|title=The Web is not a post-racial utopia|date=24 May 2015|access-date=1 July 2015|website=Al Jazeera|publisher=Al Jazeera Media Network|last=Condis|first=Megan}} Later in 2015, virtual goods stores selling guns, clothing and other objects were added to the game. When Valve introduced its Item Store, Rust was the first game on Steam to use the feature.{{cite web|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921091004/http://steamed.kotaku.com/steam-has-added-new-item-store-functionality-now-in-1740586891|url-status=live|archive-date=21 September 2016|url=http://steamed.kotaku.com/steam-has-added-new-item-store-functionality-now-in-1740586891|title=Steam has added a new 'item store' feature|first=Nathan|last=Grayson|date=4 November 2015|access-date=6 February 2016|website=Kotaku|publisher=Gawker Media}} The Steam Community Market was also allowed to sell similar items.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.pcgamer.com/steam-item-stores-roll-out-with-new-update-debut-in-rust/|title=Steam 'Item Stores' roll out with new update, debut in Rust|magazine=PC Gamer|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921091009/http://www.pcgamer.com/steam-item-stores-roll-out-with-new-update-debut-in-rust/|archive-date=21 September 2016|publisher=Future plc|first=Andy|last=Chalk|date=4 November 2015|access-date=6 February 2016}}{{cite web|url=https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2015/11/05/rust-item-store/|title=Rust Adds Item Store For Modders To Sell Cosmetics|publisher=Rock, Paper, Shotgun|first=Graham|last=Smith|date=5 November 2015|access-date=14 February 2016|archive-date=21 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921091019/https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2015/11/05/rust-item-store/|url-status=live}}
Developers removed blueprints, one of the core gameplay concepts of Rust, in July 2016. They replaced them with an experience system where players could level up after completing tasks, such as gathering wood.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.pcgamer.com/rust-introduces-xp-system/|title=Rust introduces XP system|first=Angus|last=Morrison|date=8 July 2016|access-date=9 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160709114026/http://www.pcgamer.com/rust-introduces-xp-system/|url-status=live|archive-date=9 July 2016|magazine=PC Gamer|publisher=Future plc}}{{cite web|url=http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2016-07-09-big-rust-update-ditches-blueprints-introduces-xp-and-levelling|title=Big Rust update ditches blueprints, introduces XP and levelling|access-date=11 July 2016|first=Robert|last=Purchese|date=9 July 2016|website=Eurogamer|publisher=Gamer Network|url-status=live|archive-date=11 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160711133700/http://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2016-07-09-big-rust-update-ditches-blueprints-introduces-xp-and-levelling}} In September, Maurino Berry, the lead developer, mentioned in a Reddit post that the experience system was not permanent and Berry explained that the XP system was praised prior to its release, but then received a lot of criticism.{{cite magazine|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160917095123/http://www.pcgamer.com/rusts-xp-system-isnt-working-very-well-will-likely-be-removed/|url-status=live|archive-date=17 September 2016|url=http://www.pcgamer.com/rusts-xp-system-isnt-working-very-well-will-likely-be-removed/|date=12 September 2016|first=Shaun|last=Prescott|access-date=17 September 2016|magazine=PC Gamer|publisher=Future plc|title=Rust's XP system isn't working very well, will likely be removed}} In early November 2016, components replaced the experience system. Originally, players had an initial list of items they could craft. This was changed to having a complete list with the required components from the outset. Eventually, blueprints were reintroduced.{{cite web|url=https://screenrant.com/find-more-blueprints-location-rust/|title=How to Find More Blueprints in Rust|first=Cody|last=Peterson|access-date=13 May 2021|date=8 January 2021|website=Screen Rant|url-status=live|archive-date=13 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210513133718/https://screenrant.com/find-more-blueprints-location-rust/}} Radiation, removed in 2015, was reintroduced in November 2016 after being "reprogrammed from the ground up".{{cite web|url=http://rust.facepunch.com/blog/devblog-134/|title=Devblog 134|first=Craig|last=Pearson|access-date=7 November 2016|date=3 November 2016|archive-date=7 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161107060602/https://playrust.com/devblog-134/|url-status=live|publisher=Facepunch Studios}} Instead of each location having the same level of radiation, developers added different levels ranging from low, to medium, and high.
In early 2017, Garry Newman said that had Steam Early Access not existed, Rust would have been fully released as a game by then. The development team would have continued to release updates. In June 2017, developers altered the game's gun mechanics to be more like "traditional first-person shooters".{{cite web|url=https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2017/06/05/rust-recoil-changed/|title=Gleaming! Rust overhauls recoil and inaccuracy|website=Rock, Paper, Shotgun|access-date=31 December 2017|archive-date=31 December 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171231013618/https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2017/06/05/rust-recoil-changed/|first=Alice|last=O'Connor|date=5 June 2017|url-status=live}} This was achieved by reducing recoil, material costs, and improving overall accuracy. This update also saw the beginnings of an overhaul of Hapis Island, the game's only non-procedurally generated map. The game left Early Access and was officially released on 8 February 2018, This update came with graphical updates and gun modifications.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.pcgamer.com/rust-marks-end-of-four-year-long-early-access-with-a-visual-overhaul/|title=Rust marks end of four-year Early Access with a visual overhaul|first=Samuel|last=Horti|date=11 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|url-status=live|archive-date=13 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180213105702/https://www.pcgamer.com/rust-marks-end-of-four-year-long-early-access-with-a-visual-overhaul/|magazine=PC Gamer|publisher=Future plc}} Newman mentioned that despite the official release, regular updates would continue. He noted the update cycle would change from weekly to monthly so as not to "rush in features and fixes that end up breaking something else".{{cite magazine|last1=Chalk|first1=Andy|title=Rust will leave Early Access in February, but it's not finished yet|url=http://www.pcgamer.com/rust-will-leave-early-access-in-february-but-its-not-finished-yet/|magazine=PC Gamer|publisher=Future plc|access-date=23 January 2018|url-status=live|date=22 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180123034606/http://www.pcgamer.com/rust-will-leave-early-access-in-february-but-its-not-finished-yet/|archive-date=23 January 2018}}
===Post-release===
Since Rust{{'}}s official release in 2018, Facepunch have continued to support the game with updates, including the introduction of new weapons,{{cite web|url=https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/rust-has-added-a-big-radioactive-boat-for-you-to-squabble-over|title=Rust has added a big radioactive boat for you to squabble over|first=Matt|last=Cox|access-date=13 May 2021|archive-date=13 May 2021|website=Rock, Paper, Shotgun|date=5 October 2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210513141656/https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/rust-has-added-a-big-radioactive-boat-for-you-to-squabble-over}} vehicles, NPC-populated locations,{{Cite magazine|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210507022626/https://www.pcgamer.com/rust-gets-a-visual-overhaul-plus-a-drivable-junkyard-crane-for-scrapping-cars/|title=Rust gets a visual overhaul, plus a drivable junkyard crane for scrapping cars|url=https://www.pcgamer.com/rust-gets-a-visual-overhaul-plus-a-drivable-junkyard-crane-for-scrapping-cars/|archive-date=7 May 2021|url-status=live|access-date=13 May 2021|magazine=PC Gamer|publisher=Future plc|first=Christopher|last=Livingston|date=7 May 2021}} explorable areas,{{cite web|url=https://gamerant.com/everything-coming-rusts-underwater-august-update/|title=Everything Coming in Rust's Underwater August Update|first=Christian|last=Harrison|date=1 August 2021|access-date=14 July 2022|archive-date=14 July 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220714112502/https://gamerant.com/everything-coming-rusts-underwater-august-update/|work=Gamerant|url-status=live}} and graphical overhauls. Optional paid downloadable content has also been released. The first, the "Instruments Pack", which was released in December 2019, saw the addition of new instruments,{{cite web|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2019-11-19-rust-is-getting-ten-new-playable-instruments-in-its-wholesome-first-premium-dlc|title=Rust is getting 10 new playable instruments in its wholesome first 'premium' DLC|work=Eurogamer|archive-date=15 July 2020|access-date=15 July 2020|date=20 November 2019|first=Matt|last=Wales|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200715085343/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2019-11-19-rust-is-getting-ten-new-playable-instruments-in-its-wholesome-first-premium-dlc|publisher=Gamer Network}} and the second, the "Sunburn Pack", released in July 2020, added swimming pool equipment.{{cite news|url=https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2020/07/08/rusts-next-dlc-pack-adds-pools-tubes-and-water-guns/|title=Rust's next DLC pack adds pools, tubes, and water guns|work=Rock, Paper, Shotgun|archive-date=15 July 2020|access-date=15 July 2020|date=8 July 2020|first=Lauren|last=Morton|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200715085328/https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2020/07/08/rusts-next-dlc-pack-adds-pools-tubes-and-water-guns/}} In February 2021, Rust introduced a "softcore" mode.{{cite web|url=https://www.polygon.com/2021/2/5/22268450/rust-softcore-servers-new-players-gameplay-changes-delivery-drones|title=Rust gets 'softcore' servers, so new players suffer less|first=Cass|last=Marshall|date=5 February 2021|access-date=13 May 2021|archive-date=1 March 2021|work=Polygon|publisher=Vox Media|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210301195354/https://www.polygon.com/2021/2/5/22268450/rust-softcore-servers-new-players-gameplay-changes-delivery-drones}} This mode was introduced after the game saw a surge in popularity as a result of various popular video game live streamers broadcasting the game to large audiences. Softcore mode lowered the difficulty of the game through the addition of various features that limited player loss and disadvantage, such as limiting the size of clans. A third DLC, the "Voice Props Pack", was made available in July 2021 which included audio-related devices, such as boomboxes and cassette recorders.{{cite web|url=https://www.nme.com/news/gaming-news/noisy-rust-dlc-adds-mobile-phones-boom-boxes-and-new-dances-2983909|title=Noisy 'Rust' DLC adds mobile phones, boom boxes and new dances|first=Andy|last=Brown|date=2 July 2021|access-date=14 July 2022|archive-date=14 July 2022|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220714112936/https://www.nme.com/news/gaming-news/noisy-rust-dlc-adds-mobile-phones-boom-boxes-and-new-dances-2983909|work=NME}}
Console versions of Rust were first announced in 2019 by Facepunch and Double Eleven at X019, Microsoft's Xbox announcement event.{{cite news|url=https://www.polygon.com/2019/11/14/20965525/rust-ps4-xbox-one-release-dates-2020|title=Rust comes to PS4 and Xbox One next year|last=Good|first=Owen S.|date=14 November 2019|work=Polygon|publisher=Vox Media|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210513135113/https://www.polygon.com/2019/11/14/20965525/rust-ps4-xbox-one-release-dates-2020|archive-date=13 May 2021|url-status=live|access-date=17 November 2019}} The game was set for release in 2020, but in December 2020, the release date was pushed back to 2021 with Double Eleven citing the COVID-19 pandemic as having impeded development.{{Cite web|url=https://www.pushsquare.com/news/2020/12/long-awaited_online_survival_game_rust_delayed_into_2021_on_ps4|title=Long-Awaited Online Survival Game Rust Delayed into 2021 on PS4|first=Stephen|last=Tailby|date=8 December 2020|access-date=13 May 2021|archive-date=13 May 2021|website=Push Square|publisher=Gamer Network|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210513134546/https://www.pushsquare.com/news/2020/12/long-awaited_online_survival_game_rust_delayed_into_2021_on_ps4}} In early March 2021, Rust{{'}}s console edition entered a closed beta that players could participate in.{{cite web|url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2021-03-02-rust-console-edition-gets-new-trailer-and-closed-beta|title=Rust Console Edition gets new trailer and closed beta|first=Emma|last=Kent|access-date=13 May 2021|archive-date=10 March 2021|date=2 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210310142051/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2021-03-02-rust-console-edition-gets-new-trailer-and-closed-beta|website=Eurogamer|url-status=live|publisher=Gamer Network}} However, no specific release date was given until later in March, when it was announced that the game would be released for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One on 21 May 2021.{{cite web|url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/rust-console-edition-comes-to-ps4-and-xbox-one-may-21/1100-6489426/|title=Rust: Console Edition Comes To PS4 And Xbox One May 21|website=GameSpot|publisher=Red Ventures|date=27 March 2021|archive-date=13 May 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210513135059/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/rust-console-edition-comes-to-ps4-and-xbox-one-may-21/1100-6489426/|url-status=live|access-date=27 March 2021|first=Gabe|last=Gurwin}} The developers noted that the release of a console version would not affect PC updates, and that the new version would be a "separate experience with its own roadmap and community". On 13 September 2023 Garry Newman announced works on Rust 2.{{cite web | url = https://www.pcgamesn.com/rust/sequel-confirmed | title = Rust 2 confirmed, but it "definitely won't be a Unity game" | website = PCGamesN | author = Anna Koselke | date = 13 September 2023 | access-date = 6 March 2025 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230913215625/https://www.pcgamesn.com/rust/sequel-confirmed | archive-date = 13 September 2023 | url-status = live}}
Reception
=In early access=
Rust received mixed reviews following its alpha release, with many denoting the unfinished nature and lack of polish.{{cite web|url=http://www.pcgamesn.com/rust-early-access-review|title=Rust Early Access review: one year on|last1=Purslow|first1=Matt|date=16 January 2015|website=PCGamesN|publisher=Network N|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150702104456/http://www.pcgamesn.com/rust-early-access-review|archive-date=2 July 2015|url-status=live|access-date=2 July 2015}} PC Gamer{{'}}s Andy Chalk said Rust was a great use of Early Access and even though "it's far from finished", it was ready to be played.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.pcgamer.com/rust-alpha-review/|first1=Andy|last1=Chalk|title=Rust alpha review|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150702102330/http://www.pcgamer.com/rust-alpha-review/|archive-date=2 July 2015|date=10 January 2014|access-date=2 July 2015|magazine=PC Gamer|publisher=Future plc}} GameSpot{{'}}s Shaun McInnis said the early 2014 version was "rough around the edges" and "littered with bugs", but it entertained and had potential.{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/rust-early-access-review/1100-6417381/|title=Rust Early Access Review|access-date=28 June 2016|website=GameSpot|first=Shaun|last=McInnis|date=28 January 2014|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303202546/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/rust-early-access-review/1100-6417381/|archive-date=3 March 2016}} Matthew Cox of Rock, Paper, Shotgun said it was smart of the developers to switch to the Unity engine in late 2014 due to the game's instability. In Cox's review, he noted many glitches in the late 2014 version, including unresponsive animals, framerate issues and unstable servers.{{cite news|url=https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2014/11/26/rust-new-version-review/|title=Impressions: Rust's New Version|website=Rock, Paper, Shotgun|first=Matthew|last=Cox|date=26 November 2014|access-date=28 June 2016|url-status=live|archive-date=21 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921090319/https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2014/11/26/rust-new-version-review/}} IGN{{'}}s Mitch Dyer did not enjoy the combat, calling Rust a "semi-broken" game he felt unable to recommend. However, he complimented the experience as experience "utterly unforgettable" and often unpredictable.{{cite web|url=http://au.ign.com/articles/2013/12/20/rust-the-terrifying-minecraft-dayz-open-world-survival-sim|title=Rust: The Terrifying Minecraft + DayZ Open World Survival Sim|access-date=28 June 2016|first=Mitch|last=Dyer|website=IGN|date=20 December 2013|url-status=live|archive-url=https://archive.today/20160921092624/http://au.ign.com/articles/2013/12/20/rust-the-terrifying-minecraft-dayz-open-world-survival-sim|archive-date=21 September 2016}}
Other games like Just Survive and Ark: Survival Evolved were compared to Rust because of their open world survival aspects, as well as having similar crafting mechanics. Parallels were also drawn with DayZ because of the influence it had on the gameplay of Rust.{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2014/05/08/rust-h1z1-and-the-emerging-survival-mmo-genre/|title=Rust, H1Z1, and the emerging 'survival MMO' genre|url-status=live|first1=Andrew|last1=Ross|date=8 May 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150630050059/http://www.engadget.com/2014/05/08/rust-h1z1-and-the-emerging-survival-mmo-genre/|archive-date=30 June 2015|website=Engadget|publisher=AOL|access-date=10 June 2015}}{{cite magazine|url=http://www.pcgamer.com/ark-survival-evolved-sells-one-million-copies-in-less-than-a-month/|title=Ark: Survival Evolved sells one million copies in less than a month|magazine=PC Gamer|publisher=Future plc|first1=Andy|last1=Chalk|date=2 July 2015|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150706100932/http://www.pcgamer.com/ark-survival-evolved-sells-one-million-copies-in-less-than-a-month/|archive-date=6 July 2015|access-date=6 July 2015}} Notably, Kotaku{{'}}s Luke Plunkett considered the similarities, saying it felt as though someone had intended to create a game whereby Dayz and Minecraft could be played simultaneously.{{cite web|url=http://kotaku.com/rust-is-dayz-vs-minecraft-and-it-will-kick-your-ass-1497654260|archive-url=https://archive.today/20160921092707/http://kotaku.com/rust-is-dayz-vs-minecraft-and-it-will-kick-your-ass-1497654260|archive-date=21 September 2016|url-status=live|title=Rust Is DayZ vs Minecraft, And It Will Kick Your Ass|first=Luke|last=Plunkett|date=9 January 2014|access-date=28 June 2016|website=Kotaku|publisher=Gawker Media}}
The inability to choose and design a player's character was both commended and criticised. The YouTube channel Extra Credits commended Rust for promoting diversity by randomly selecting a player's in-game race. Tying race to their Steam ID forced players to experience the game in a different way than they might normally experience it, perhaps promoting empathy for someone of a different ethnicity.{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eh1zfdUTqBY|title=Rust - Representing Race in Games - Extra Credits|publisher=YouTube|date=27 May 2015|access-date=31 August 2015|author=Extra Credits|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151120090719/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eh1zfdUTqBY|archive-date=20 November 2015}} David Craddock of Shacknews criticised the lack of communication between Facepunch and the community when they added female models.{{cite web|url=http://www.shacknews.com/article/94189/opinion-how-facepunch-failed-to-communicate-gender-assignment-in-rust|title=Opinion: How Facepunch failed to communicate gender assignment in Rust|date=18 April 2016|access-date=14 June 2016|first=David|last=Craddock|url-status=live|publisher=Shacknews|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160614112541/http://www.shacknews.com/article/94189/opinion-how-facepunch-failed-to-communicate-gender-assignment-in-rust|archive-date=14 June 2016}} In response to this criticism, Garry Newman commented he felt some trepidation about adding the racial feature, fearing it might be seen as the original character model "blacked up". He stressed the chosen ethnicity was permanent—"just like in real life, you are who you are".{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/rust-experiments-with-racial-empathy-randomly-assi/1100-6426197/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://archive.today/20160921092554/http://www.gamespot.com/articles/rust-experiments-with-racial-empathy-randomly-assi/1100-6426197/|archive-date=21 September 2016|title=Rust Experiments With Racial Empathy, Randomly Assigns Skin Color|website=GameSpot|date=26 March 2015|access-date=2 November 2015|last=Starkey|first=Daniel}} Newman discussed the reasoning behind not providing the option to choose their character's gender and race in an article in The Guardian, saying Rust is about survival, not characterization and identity. "We wanted the appearance of the players to be consistent over time. They should be recognisable consistently and long-term."{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/apr/13/videogame-chooses-character-race-gender-rust|title=Why my videogame chooses your character's race and gender for you|first=Garry|url-status=live|last=Newman|newspaper=The Guardian|date=14 April 2016|access-date=14 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160614113408/http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/apr/13/videogame-chooses-character-race-gender-rust|archive-date=14 June 2016}} Sales reportedly increased by 74% shortly after the addition of female models.{{cite web|url=https://www.engadget.com/2016/04/23/rust-female-character-models-sales-jump-bullet-with-butterfly-wings/|title=Sales skyrocketed after 'Rust' added female character models|url-status=live|archive-url=https://archive.today/20160921092625/https://www.engadget.com/2016/04/23/rust-female-character-models-sales-jump-bullet-with-butterfly-wings/|archive-date=21 September 2016|first=Timothy|last=Seppala|website=Engadget|publisher=AOL|access-date=28 June 2016|date=23 April 2016}}{{cite web|url=http://steamed.kotaku.com/rusts-controversial-random-gender-update-has-led-to-mor-1772390030|title=Rust's Controversial Random Gender Update Has Led To More Players|website=Kotaku|publisher=Gawker Media|first=Nathan|last=Grayson|date=22 April 2016|access-date=28 June 2016|url-status=live|archive-date=21 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921092223/http://steamed.kotaku.com/rusts-controversial-random-gender-update-has-led-to-mor-1772390030}}
=Full release=
{{Video game reviews
| MC = PC: 69/100{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/rust/critic-reviews/?platform=pc|title=Rust for PC Reviews|website=Metacritic|publisher=Red Ventures|access-date=17 June 2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180617094907/http://www.metacritic.com/game/pc/rust|archive-date=17 June 2018}}
PS4: 66/100{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/rust/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-4|title=Rust: Console Edition for PlayStation 4 Reviews|website=Metacritic|publisher=Red Ventures|access-date=16 July 2021|archive-date=16 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210716184434/https://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-4/rust-console-edition|url-status=live}}
XONE: 64/100{{cite web|url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/rust/critic-reviews/?platform=xbox-one|title=Rust: Console Edition for Xbox One Reviews|website=Metacritic|publisher=Red Ventures|access-date=16 July 2021|archive-date=16 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210716184432/https://www.metacritic.com/game/xbox-one/rust-console-edition|url-status=live}}
| Destruct = 8/10{{cite web|url=https://www.destructoid.com/review-rust-490145.phtml|first=Ray|last=Porreca|access-date=17 June 2018|website=Destructoid|title=Review: Rust|date=19 February 2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180625121417/https://www.destructoid.com/review-rust-490145.phtml|archive-date=25 June 2018}}
| GI = 6.5/10{{cite magazine|last=Gwaltney|first=Javy|date=13 February 2018|url=https://www.gameinformer.com/games/rust/b/pc/archive/2018/02/13/more-rough-than-diamond.aspx|title=More Rough Than Diamond - Rust - PC|magazine=Game Informer|access-date=19 February 2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180221213403/http://www.gameinformer.com/games/rust/b/pc/archive/2018/02/13/more-rough-than-diamond.aspx|archive-date=21 February 2018}}
| GSpot = 3/10{{cite web|last=Barbosa|first=Alessandro|date=17 February 2018|url=https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/rust-review-life-is-fleeting/1900-6416858/|title=Rust Review: Life Is Fleeting|website=GameSpot|access-date=19 February 2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180220033111/https://www.gamespot.com/reviews/rust-review-life-is-fleeting/1900-6416858/|archive-date=20 February 2018}}
| GStar = 69/100{{cite web|url=https://www.gamestar.de/artikel/rust-zwischen-steinzeit-und-menschlichen-abgruenden,3326749.html|title=Rust im Test - Zwischen Steinzeit und menschlichen Abgründen|language=de|first=Gloria|last=Maderfeld|access-date=27 June 2018|date=1 March 2018|website=GameStar|publisher=Webedia|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180330225844/https://www.gamestar.de/artikel/rust-zwischen-steinzeit-und-menschlichen-abgruenden,3326749.html|archive-date=30 March 2018|url-status=live}}
| IGN = 7/10{{cite web|url=http://au.ign.com/articles/2018/02/24/rust-review|title=Rust Review|access-date=10 March 2018|website=IGN|publisher=Ziff Davis|author=GB Burford|date=28 February 2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180310110314/http://www.ign.com/articles/2018/02/24/rust-review|archive-date=10 March 2018}}
| PCGUS = 80/100{{cite magazine|url=https://www.pcgamer.com/rust-review/|title=Rust Review|first=Luke|last=Winkie|magazine=PC Gamer|publisher=Future plc|access-date=27 June 2018|date=19 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180627115724/https://www.pcgamer.com/rust-review/|archive-date=27 June 2018|url-status=live}}
}}
After being fully released, Rust garnered "mixed or average" reviews on review aggregator website Metacritic. Critics praised the PvP combat, difficulty, and survival aspects, while grinding and the experience had by new players came under some criticism.{{cite news|url=https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2018/02/12/rust-review|title=Wot I Think: Rust|first=Matt|last=Cox|date=12 February 2018|access-date=13 February 2018|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180214142100/https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/2018/02/12/rust-review/|archive-date=14 February 2018|website=Rock, Paper, Shotgun}}
Many critics held the opinion that while starting anew was frustrating, the combat was rewarding. For instance, Luke Winkie of PC Gamer summarised the game saying, "Wake up naked, run for your life, do horrible things to one another. There is no grander narrative, or mythos, or win condition." He described the beginner experience as "quite prickly" but continued on to praise the combat, joking that "connecting [a] hatchet with an idiot's head feels great". Gloria Manderfeld, a writer for the German magazine GameStar, echoed these opinions, adding there was little end-game besides PvP. However, she opined the PvP itself was effective. Ray Porreca of Destructoid described the combat as the "meat" of the game. However, he wrote that the experience would vary depending on their desire to fight. "If you can look past a community that tends to be toxic, Rust{{'}}s sprawling plains and toppled landmarks are an excellent backdrop for player-driven storytelling and pitched, dramatic moments." In a negative review GameSpot{{'}}s Alessandro Barbosa said the whole experience felt unfulfilling. He described the game as lacking certain creative features, like the ability to easily redesign bases.
The disdain toward the experience as a new player was noted in conjunction with the necessity of grinding, and how repetitive that became. IGN{{'}}s review described the game as expecting the player to spend all their gaming time on it, fearing that failing to do so will result in being raided and needing to begin again. Game Informer{{'}}s Javy Gwaltney reiterated this, explaining it felt demotivating when they died solely because they came in contact with someone more experienced. Agreeing with Manderfeld's description, in an updated review Cox said his patience wore thin after a while. He said that while maintaining health bars may have once been enjoyable, he balked at the prospect in 2018.
Nonetheless, some critics praised the game's difficulty, mentioning the satisfaction they felt after managing to survive successfully. Porreca recommended the game to those willing to dedicate time, saying the game offers "a social sandbox and a deep, functioning crafting system". Winkie expressed interest in the necessity of managing hunger, thirst, and health while learning more and discovering better items. He also expressed a sense of appreciation for those dedicated to the game, mentioning the YouTube videos of large, multi-clan raids. He closed the review saying everyone should try Rust due to its difference from other games. Cox agreed noting the game's brutality only added to the gratification a player felt when they managed to eventually succeed.
The reception toward the graphics were mixed. Critics praised the environment, but denounced the animations and character models. Barbosa described the animations as "stiff and unnatural" and the models "ugly and dull". Additionally, Rust{{'}}s usage of sound was commended by Gwaltney, who regarded it as compelling due to the requirement of players to listen to their surroundings to survive.
Since Rust{{'}}s release, it has been included in several "best survival game" lists by video game journalists.{{cite web|url=https://www.vg247.com/the-15-best-survival-games-of-all-time-july-2022|title=The 15 Best Survival Games of all time [July 2022]|first=Kelsey|last=Raynor|date=8 July 2022|access-date=14 July 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220714111049/https://www.vg247.com/the-15-best-survival-games-of-all-time-july-2022|archive-date=14 July 2022|url-status=live|work=VG247|publisher=Gamer Network}}{{cite web|title=The best survival games on PC in 2022|url=https://www.pcgamesn.com/best-survival-games|work=PCGamesN|date=14 July 2022|archive-date=14 July 2022|access-date=14 July 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220714110945/https://www.pcgamesn.com/best-survival-games|url-status=dead }}{{cite web|url=https://www.gamesradar.com/best-survival-games/|title=10 best survival games to test your will to live|first=Alex|last=Avard|date=24 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220714110949/https://www.gamesradar.com/best-survival-games/|access-date=14 July 2022|archive-date=14 July 2022|work=GamesRadar|publisher=Future plc|url-status=live}}
=Sales and player count=
Within the first two weeks of Rust{{'}}s alpha release it sold over 150,000 copies,{{cite web|url=http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/207990/Garrys_Mod_creator_finds_unexpected_success_with_new_game_Rust.php|title=Garry's Mod creator finds unexpected success with new game Rust|url-status=dead|archive-date=21 September 2016|archive-url=https://archive.today/20160921092701/http://www.gamasutra.com/view/news/207990/Garrys_Mod_creator_finds_unexpected_success_with_new_game_Rust.php|last=Wawro|first=Alex|date=3 January 2014|work=Gamasutra|publisher=UBM TechWeb|access-date=5 January 2014}} compared to the 34,000 copies of Garry's Mod sold in its first week.{{cite web|url=http://www.facepunchstudios.com/2014/01/03/gmod-vs-rust-launch/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160921092234/http://www.facepunchstudios.com/2014/01/03/gmod-vs-rust-launch/|archive-date=21 September 2016|title=GMod vs Rust Launch|date=3 January 2014|access-date=12 February 2016|publisher=Facepunch|last=Newman|first=Garry}} Rust{{'}}s sales had reached one million copies after being an Early Access title for only two months,{{cite web|url=http://www.pcgamer.com/2014/02/11/rust-hits-1-million-sales-after-two-months/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://archive.today/20160921092531/http://www.pcgamer.com/rust-hits-1-million-sales-after-two-months/|archive-date=21 September 2016|title=Rust hits 1 million sales after two months|last=Petitte|first=Omri|date=11 February 2014|work=PC Gamer|publisher=Future plc|access-date=11 February 2014}} and during February 2014, it overtook Garry's Mod in terms of sales, making over {{US$|30 million}}.{{cite web|url=http://www.polygon.com/2014/2/21/5433886/garrys-mod-sales-30m-rust|url-status=live|archive-url=https://archive.today/20160921092308/http://www.polygon.com/2014/2/21/5433886/garrys-mod-sales-30m-rust|archive-date=21 September 2016|title=Garry's Mod sales hit $30M, Rust eclipses it|website=Polygon|publisher=Vox Media|first1=Samit|last1=Sarkar|date=21 February 2014|access-date=2 July 2015}} By the end of 2015, three million copies had been sold.{{cite magazine|url=http://www.pcgamer.com/rust-sales-pass-the-three-million-mark/|title=Rust sales pass the three million mark|url-status=live|archive-url=https://archive.today/20160921092642/http://www.pcgamer.com/rust-sales-pass-the-three-million-mark/|archive-date=21 September 2016|first1=Tom|last1=Sykes|magazine=PC Gamer|date=24 December 2015|access-date=3 January 2015|publisher=Future plc}} By March 2017, the game had sold more than 5.2 million units, with more than 1.2 million in-game skins sold.{{cite web|title=Community Update 127|url=https://rust.facepunch.com/blog/community-update-127/|access-date=3 July 2017|date=14 March 2017|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170704013413/https://rust.facepunch.com/blog/community-update-127/|archive-date=4 July 2017}} In December 2019, Facepunch announced that Rust had sold 9 million copies, making $142 million, overtaking Garry's Mod in terms of gross, though still behind in total sales.{{cite magazine|url=https://www.pcgamer.com/au/rust-has-made-more-money-than-garrys-mod/|title=Rust has made more money than Garry's Mod|date=21 December 2019|access-date=23 December 2019|magazine=PC Gamer|publisher=Future plc|first=Jonathan|last=Bolding|url-status=live|archive-date=22 December 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191222141629/https://www.pcgamer.com/au/rust-has-made-more-money-than-garrys-mod/}}
In January 2021, Rust saw a surge in popularity because of live streamers playing the game on Twitch.tv for large audiences. The game rose to the top of Twitch's charts, peaking at over one million concurrent live viewers on 3 January. The group primarily responsible for the high viewer counts was OfflineTV.{{cite web|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210127025820/https://www.pcgamer.com/rust-tops-a-million-peak-viewers-on-twitch-thanks-to-dozens-of-big-time-streamers/|archive-date=27 January 2021|access-date=14 May 2021|date=4 January 2021|work=PC Gamer|publisher=Future plc|first=Christopher|last=Livingston|url=https://www.pcgamer.com/rust-tops-a-million-peak-viewers-on-twitch-thanks-to-dozens-of-big-time-streamers/|url-status=live|title=Rust tops a million peak viewers on Twitch, thanks to dozens of big-time streamers}} This reinvigorated interest in the game enabled Rust to also beat its highest concurrent player count by more than double. Additionally, Newman reported that the game had generated $1 million in sales over two days during this period.{{cite web|url=https://www.ign.com/articles/rust-popularity-explained-offline-tv-twitch-shroud-xqc|title=Here's Why Everyone's Playing Rust Again|first=Matt|last=Kim|access-date=14 May 2021|archive-date=12 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210412021133/https://www.ign.com/articles/rust-popularity-explained-offline-tv-twitch-shroud-xqc|url-status=live|date=12 January 2021|publisher=IGN}} At the end of 2021, Facepunch announced the game had reached almost 12.5 million sales. They also noted that the Voice Props Pack had been the most successful of the three DLC released at the time.{{cite web|url=https://www.nme.com/en_au/news/gaming-news/rust-reflects-on-2021-and-shares-a-sneak-peak-of-whats-next-3133239|title='Rust' reflects on 2021 and shares a 'sneak peak[sic]' of what's next|first=Andy|last=Brown|work=NME|access-date=14 July 2022|archive-date=14 July 2022|date=7 January 2022|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220714113412/https://www.nme.com/en_au/news/gaming-news/rust-reflects-on-2021-and-shares-a-sneak-peak-of-whats-next-3133239}}
References
{{reflist}}
External links
{{portal|Video games}}
- {{Official website|https://rust.facepunch.com/}}
Category:Early access video games
Category:Multiplayer video games
Category:Open-world video games
Category:Video games with Steam Workshop support
Category:Video games developed in the United Kingdom