Ice-cold survival game Permafrost proves the apocalypse is better with a dog

The frosty wastelands of The Long Dark and Frostpunk are vicious, harsh tests of endurance, and new survival game Permafrost is no different. As a cataclysm transforms the Earth into endless winter, you'll need all your wits about you to keep warm and safe. That means gathering resources, building a base, exploring the shattered remnants of society on foot or by vehicle, and making decisions that will shape the very fate of humanity. Fortunately, as a new Permafrost gameplay trailer shared exclusively via PCGamesN shows, you'll have a very good boy by your side along the way.

"I saved a dog once. He's saved me every day since." The canine companion is a fundamental part of Permafrost, and you can see him in action courtesy of the exclusive new gameplay trailer we're happy to present below. He's not just there to give you a mood boost; he'll also assist with many of the more arduous aspects found in the best survival games. He can carry loot that you don't have space for, and even ferry resources back to base while you keep exploring, before returning when you whistle.

There's plenty more for your dog to do beyond being a simple pack hound. He'll also sense nearby danger and warn you of incoming threats, and you can train him to search for hidden treasures and valuable materials. Trust is a rare thing in the world of Permafrost, so having someone that you can always rely on will prove the most valuable asset of all.

The harshest areas of the world might still pose a serious threat, demanding that you dress up suitably, prepare enough supplies, and carefully monitor your capabilities and vitality to avoid potentially fatal conditions such as hypothermia. When your pup isn't enough, Permafrost also offers the ability to join your friends in online co-op and brave the cold together.

Spacerocket Games has yet to set a Permafrost release date, but it's planned to hit Steam Early Access in 2025. You can register your interest in playtesting it now via the store page.

For more opportunities to forge strong bonds, we've rounded up the best co-op games in 2025, and you can ensure your communication always stays crystal clear with our guide to the best gaming headset for PC.

What would your first move be in a frosty apocalypse? Discuss your best survival strategies in our community Discord server with over 10k other PCGamesN readers.