Choosing the right base location in Project Zomboid is crucial for long-term survival. Riverside, with its mix of residential areas, commercial zones, and proximity to the river, offers several strategic advantages. This guide will walk you through some of the best base locations in Riverside, helping you make an informed decision for your survival strategy. So, let's dive into the best spots to set up shop and fortify your position against the undead hordes in Project Zomboid!

Understanding the Importance of Base Location

Before we delve into specific locations, let's discuss why base selection is so important in Project Zomboid. Your base is more than just a place to sleep; it's your safe haven, storage facility, and crafting center all rolled into one. A well-chosen base location can significantly impact your ability to survive and thrive in the zombie-infested world. Key factors to consider include: proximity to resources, defensibility, access to water and power, and the surrounding zombie population.

• Proximity to Resources: Look for locations near essential resources like food, medical supplies, tools, and building materials. Being close to these resources minimizes the time and risk involved in scavenging.
• Defensibility: A good base should be easy to defend against zombie hordes. Natural barriers like fences, walls, or bodies of water can provide a significant advantage.
• Access to Water and Power: Water and electricity are crucial for long-term survival. Locations near water sources or with existing wells are highly desirable. Power can be restored with generators, but fuel will be a constant concern.
• Zombie Population: The density of zombies in the surrounding area can greatly impact your ability to secure and maintain your base. Areas with lower zombie populations are generally preferable.

Top Base Locations in Riverside

Okay, guys, let's check out the prime real estate in Riverside that'll keep you safe from those pesky zombies! Each spot has its own perks, so pick what jives with your playstyle.

1. The Isolated House by the River

This location is ideal for players who value isolation and natural defenses. This house is located in the southwest corner of Riverside, this house offers excellent protection due to its riverside location and surrounding fences. Setting up a base here allows you to control access points, making it easier to defend against zombie attacks. Its key advantages include:

• Natural Defenses: The river acts as a natural barrier on one side, significantly reducing the number of directions from which zombies can approach.
• Fenced Yard: The existing fence provides an initial layer of defense, slowing down zombies and giving you time to react.
• Proximity to Water: Easy access to the river for fishing and water collection.
• Ample Space: The house and yard provide plenty of space for storage, farming, and crafting.

To maximize this location, reinforce the existing fence with additional barriers and establish clear lines of sight for defense. Farming can be set up in the yard, and rain collectors can be placed to ensure a steady water supply. Additionally, consider building a dock for easy access to the river for fishing and foraging.

2. The Gas Station

The gas station is located near the main road, offering easy access to fuel and supplies. Setting up a base here can provide a strategic advantage for exploring the surrounding areas. Here's why it's a solid choice:

• Fuel Supply: An immediate source of gasoline for vehicles and generators.
• Road Access: Convenient access to the main road for quick travel to other towns and locations.
• Storage Space: The gas station building offers a decent amount of storage space for supplies.
• Visibility: The open layout provides good visibility of the surrounding area.

To fortify the gas station, focus on reinforcing the windows and doors with metal sheets or wooden planks. Clear the surrounding area of vegetation to improve visibility and prevent zombies from sneaking up on you. Be aware that the gas station can attract a large number of zombies due to its location near the main road, so be prepared for frequent attacks. Consider building a perimeter fence to control the flow of zombies and provide an additional layer of defense.

3. The Hardware Store

For players who prioritize building and crafting, the hardware store is an excellent choice. Located in the commercial district, this location provides access to a wide range of tools and building materials. The key benefits include:

• Abundant Tools: A wide variety of tools for construction, repair, and crafting.
• Building Materials: Access to wood, nails, metal sheets, and other essential building materials.
• Central Location: Proximity to other commercial establishments for additional scavenging opportunities.
• Large Building: The hardware store provides ample space for storage and crafting workshops.

To secure the hardware store, reinforce the windows and doors with metal bars or wooden planks. Clear the surrounding area of zombies and establish a perimeter fence to control access. Consider setting up different zones within the store for specific purposes, such as a crafting area, storage room, and sleeping quarters. The roof can also be utilized for farming or as a lookout point. Be mindful of the noise generated by crafting activities, as it can attract nearby zombies.

4. The Two-Story Houses in the Suburbs

These houses, scattered throughout the residential areas of Riverside, offer a balance of defensibility and resource availability. These two-story homes offer multiple entry and exit points, allowing for strategic movement and escape routes. Here's why they're worth considering:

• Multiple Floors: The second floor provides a safe haven from ground-level zombies.
• Residential Setting: Proximity to other houses for scavenging food, clothing, and other supplies.
• Fenced Yards: Existing fences provide an initial layer of defense.
• Customization: These houses can be easily customized to suit your specific needs and preferences.

To maximize the defensibility of these houses, reinforce the windows and doors on the ground floor and establish a safe room on the second floor. Clear the surrounding yards of vegetation to improve visibility and prevent zombies from sneaking up on you. Utilize the second floor as a lookout point and establish escape routes in case of emergency. Farming can be set up in the yard, and rain collectors can be placed to ensure a steady water supply. Be aware that residential areas can attract a moderate number of zombies, so be prepared for occasional attacks.

5. McCoy Logging Co.

This spot is a bit outside the main town but offers a unique set of advantages. The logging company provides a large, open area with plenty of trees for sustainable wood supply. Here's what makes it a great base:

• Abundant Wood: Unlimited access to wood for building and crafting.
• Open Space: Plenty of room for farming, storage, and expansion.
• Remote Location: Reduced zombie population compared to urban areas.
• Industrial Setting: Access to industrial equipment and supplies.

However, setting up a base here requires significant effort due to the lack of existing structures. You'll need to construct your own walls, fences, and buildings from scratch. Focus on establishing a secure perimeter to protect against zombie attacks. Consider building a watchtower for early detection of approaching hordes. The logging company is relatively far from other towns and resources, so be prepared for long scavenging trips. However, the abundance of wood and open space makes it an ideal location for long-term survival.

Essential Base Building Tips

No matter which location you choose, these base-building tips will help you create a safe and sustainable haven:

• Reinforce Windows and Doors: Use metal sheets, wooden planks, or metal bars to reinforce windows and doors. This will slow down zombies and give you time to react.
• Build a Perimeter Fence: A perimeter fence will help control the flow of zombies and provide an additional layer of defense. Use logs, planks, or metal fences to create a barrier around your base.
• Clear Vegetation: Clear the surrounding area of vegetation to improve visibility and prevent zombies from sneaking up on you. Use an axe or machete to clear trees, bushes, and grass.
• Establish a Safe Room: Create a safe room within your base where you can retreat in case of emergency. Reinforce the walls and door with metal sheets or wooden planks, and stock it with essential supplies like food, water, and medical items.
• Set Up Rain Collectors: Rain collectors are essential for ensuring a steady water supply. Place them on the roof or in the yard to collect rainwater.
• Start Farming: Farming is a sustainable way to produce food. Create a garden plot in the yard and plant seeds to grow vegetables and fruits.
• Maintain Your Base: Regularly inspect your base for damage and repair any breaches in the defenses. Keep the surrounding area clear of zombies and maintain your supplies.

Conclusion

Choosing the right base location in Riverside is a critical decision that can significantly impact your survival in Project Zomboid. Consider your playstyle, resource needs, and defensive capabilities when selecting a location. Whether you prefer the isolation of the house by the river or the resource abundance of the hardware store, each location offers unique advantages and challenges. By following the base-building tips outlined in this guide, you can create a safe and sustainable haven that will help you survive the zombie apocalypse. Good luck, survivors!