Dead by Daylight has been my gaming companion for seven years, offering a mix of frustration and strangely addictive gameplay. I can't help but dislike the game, but like a moth to a flame, I keep coming back for more.


Playing as a killer is a constant struggle against coordinated SWF teams armed to the teeth with the best perks, items, and offerings. Switching to survivor mode doesn't bring much relief, as teammates often resemble the kind who'll let you die on the hook while they leisurely tend to their health, only to criticize your "lack of contribution" in the end-game chat after you've spent 10 minutes looping the killer.


The game has grown over the years, boasting over 200 perks, over 40 maps, and 34 killers. Yet, it often feels like the developers are out of touch. Live streams and Q&As may yield responses like "we're looking into it," but more often than not, they'll flat-out say "it's not planned" for features that should have been in the game from the start and still aren't after 7 nearly 8 years.


Recent improvements, like auto-buy and cheaper items in the bloodwebs, have eased the progression grind, but it still takes a considerable amount of time to achieve even a single prestige. With the plethora of items, perks, offerings, and add-ons available, unlocking all character perks for everyone becomes a marathon rather than a sprint.

Promised features, like crossplay, have been in progress for four years, while basic additions remain overlooked. FOMO cosmetics add to the frustration, many locked behind rift passes and limited-time events. Despite the developers expressing disdain for FOMO cosmetics, their constant addition and promotion contradict these sentiments.


Amidst the challenges, Dead by Daylight finds strength in its vibrant community. Notably, content creators like Otzdarva have played a pivotal role in fostering this community spirit. Otzdarva's dedication to the game is nothing short of commendable. His weekly uploads featuring tier lists, builds, tips, and thorough breakdowns of patch notes and updates serve as a guiding light for both newcomers and seasoned players.

While Otzdarva stands out as one of the most recognized Dead by Daylight creators, it's crucial to acknowledge the diverse array of talent within the community. Creators like Scott Jund, Hens, SpookNJukes, Tofu, Zubat, and many others contribute their distinctive styles, creating a rich tapestry of content for the community to enjoy.

Scott Jund, in particular, is partly known for his unabashed critique of the game and its developers. His open criticism reflects a commitment to providing an unfiltered perspective. From dissecting game mechanics to scrutinizing developer decisions, Scott Jund doesn't hold back when sharing his opinions.

SpookNJukes takes a different approach by crafting videos that criticize, make fun of, and review clips/VODs from toxic streamers. Simultaneously, he offers support and an audience to the streamers who were victims of toxicity, fostering a healthier streaming environment.

These creators collectively enhance the Dead by Daylight experience by providing entertainment, education, and a sense of community. While Otzdarva might be the most recognized DBD creator, his willingness to criticize the game, even as a Fog Whisperer, reflects a broader sentiment within the community. Many content creators, despite their status, fearlessly address the game's shortcomings, contributing to an environment where constructive criticism can thrive.


I'm unsure how to recommend the game on Steam, whether positive or negative. I have so many reasons why it should be one or the other, but I think ultimately I will recommend it. Not because I want to, but because there is only yes or no. If there was an unsure or maybe option, I'd pick that.

To new players, while the game is labelled as "horror," the initial fear soon wears off. Playing with friends can significantly enhance the experience. Initially daunting with numerous characters and perks, stick with it. You'll learn and unlock more, especially with original characters that can be obtained without spending real money. Iridescent shards, the in-game currency, allow you to purchase them, but it takes time to accumulate enough for even a single character.

Watching videos on ranking survivors, perks, or perk reviews can be immensely helpful. Otzdarva's extensive 4+ hour-long videos explain killer and survivor perks brilliantly, although be aware that they might be outdated, considering the frequent changes in the game.

My biggest tip to newer players, and probably the most important, is to play both sides. Even if you're not a good killer initially, that's fine. Nobody is at the start, and you will get better. Playing both sides provides a better understanding of killer perks, powers, addons, and gameplay, allowing for even greater skill as a survivor because you know how the killer works and what the perks do.


In conclusion, Dead by Daylight is a game of highs and lows, addiction and frustration, enriched by a community that strives to make it better. Whether it's the nail-biting chases, the diverse cast of killers, or the continuous evolution of the game, there's something compelling that keeps drawing players back. The road ahead is uncertain, but the journey remains, guided by the passionate creators and the resilient community that defines the world of Dead by Daylight.

This is a relatively quick and basic review, I highly recommend checking out the above mentioned youtube/twitch channels for a better understanding of the game.

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