Don't Starve Together
Overview -
'Don’t Starve Together' is a standalone multiplayer spin-off of 'Don’t Starve'. It has been in Early Access since December of 2014, with its own set of updates and content. The first expansion, 'Reign of Giants', has been incorporated into it, but it doesn’t have anything from 'Shipwrecked' at this time.
Video Review
The video is mostly unchanged from 'Don’t Starve', with just a few different models for things like beefalo saddles and whatnot, and customization in the form of unlockable outfits. It is otherwise a simple but still beautiful vignette of oddball cartoons and dark clockwork. Mouse and keyboard controls are somewhat problematic because of the sketchy hitboxes (I have accidentally struck a pigman instead of picking up his poop on more than one occasion, leading to murder and regret), but controllers work just dandy.
Audio Review
The carnival music fits in perfectly but is limited in its depth. Sound effects are quirky and lively, as are the distinct musical instruments assigned to each character. 'Don’t Starve' is not a horror game strictly speaking, but I will readily admit to being spooked whenever I hear the hounds baying - the telltale sign of a weekly attack, designed to keep players on their toes.
Final Thoughts
'Don't Starve Together' is hands-down the best way to play 'Don’t Starve'. There’s nothing quite like taking down a deerclops with your bros and basking in the warm glow of victory before being interrupted by a vicious werepig attack or a bout of troublesome frog rain. It’s still hard as hell in its default mode, but Klei has handed over the keys to get under the hood and fine-tune their survival experience like never before. If your gaming circle is looking for something new, why don’t you try a bit of starvation?