Many players are hearing about Stranded Deep for the first time thanks to its availability through the Epic Games Store's holiday sale. Though popular in Early Access on PC for over five years, Stranded Deep first released on PS4 and Xbox One this April.
In much the same vein as Ark: Survival Evolved and The Forest, Stranded Deep has players survive on a deserted island after a plane crash. Over five years, the game has received steady updates and improvements, although it still has not left Early Access. Although there is an endgame now, players will not reach it unless they can master the basics of feeding their character. So, here's a quick guide on cooking up a fish in Stranded Deep.
Step 1: Catch a Fish
No fish is going to jump into a player's inventory and present itself to be cooked. First, players must successfully catch a fish from the ocean. This can be done by crafting a fishing tool like a spear, which can catch a lot of things in Stranded Deep. Next, it's recommended that players make a raft to catch Stranded Deep's larger fish out in the ocean. Just be sure to watch out for sharks, as it's usually best to try for fish that won't bite back.
Step 2: Use the Knife
After catching a fish, take it out of the inventory and place it on the ground in front of the character. Get out a knife (this must be crafted separately) and hold down the action button on the fish (E on PC by default). This will skin the fish and make it ready for cooking. Create a fire pit, and the character is fed and one step closer to making it to Stranded Deep's endgame.
Alternate Step 2: Use a Smoker
There is one other way to cook a fish without using a knife. Building a smoker allows players to smoke lots of meat (or fish) all at once, keeping it cooked and ready to eat for a long time. Considering Stranded Deep allows co-op play on PC, it could be an opportunity for a genuine cook-out.
If it sounds like Stranded Deep is a game worth trying out, now is the time to do so. Stranded Deep is free for a very short time right now. Have a look and decide if it's worth the effort, or if it's all washed up.
Stranded Deep is available now for PC, PS4, and Xbox One.
