CAUTION: The information in this guide is compiled from various wanderers' experiences. Reality in the Backrooms is fluid and subjective. Your mileage may vary.
1. Basic Survival
Surviving in the Backrooms requires a combination of physical endurance, mental fortitude, and adaptability. Here are some key points to remember:
Stay hydrated. Almond water is your best friend.
Conserve energy. Rest when possible, but stay alert.
Trust your instincts. If something feels wrong, it probably is.
Maintain your sanity. Engage in activities that ground you to reality.
TIP: Always carry a light source. Darkness in the Backrooms can be more than just absence of light.
2. Navigation
The layout of the Backrooms is ever-changing, but some general rules apply:
Memorize landmarks, but don't rely on them entirely.
If you find yourself going in circles, try to 'noclip' through a wall (at your own risk).
Some levels have specific exit conditions. Pay attention to environmental cues.
TIP: The humming of fluorescent lights often gets louder near level exits.
3. Entities
The Backrooms are home to various entities. Here's how to deal with some common ones:
Hounds: Stay still and quiet. They're attracted to movement and sound.
Skin-Stealers: If you suspect someone is a Skin-Stealer, ask them a personal question only the real person would know.
Smilers: If you see glowing eyes or teeth in the dark, do not approach. Back away slowly.
TIP: Not all entities are hostile. Some may even help you, but always approach with caution.
4. Mental Health
Maintaining your sanity is crucial for survival. Here are some strategies:
Keep a journal. It helps ground you and track the passage of time.
Engage in routine activities, like counting steps or reciting poems.
If you meet other wanderers, socialize, but be cautious.
Remember your life before the Backrooms. Don't let it fade away.
TIP: If you start seeing things that others don't, or if the environment becomes too 'dream-like', you might be slipping. Ground yourself immediately.
5. Resources
Resources in the Backrooms are scarce but vital. Here's what you need to know:
Almond water is the safest liquid to consume. It helps maintain sanity.
Some vending machines dispense useful items. Others may be traps.
In Level 11, you can find supply caches left by other wanderers.
The Hub (Level !) often has more resources, but it's also more dangerous.
TIP: If you find a resource cache, take only what you need. Leave some for other wanderers.
Test Your Backrooms Survival Knowledge
Think you're ready to face the Backrooms? Take this quick quiz:
Remember, wanderer: Knowledge is power, but flexibility is key. The Backrooms do not follow consistent rules. Adapt, survive, and maybe one day, you'll find your way back.
For more detailed information on specific levels, visit our Level Guide.
To share your experiences or connect with other wanderers, join our Community Forum.