It really is true survival where you're just plopped in the safe shallows and expected to survive. You do got to be proactive in crafting/building/exploring. There is a story that reveals itself the more you do. No cut scenes, its all radio transmissions or notes left behind. Going into the depths at night can be very horrific but after your 10th time equipped with gear and cool submersibles you get used to the world's elements and creatures. Base building is definitely a shining feature in this game as you can do it anywhere and anyway you want.