Raft began as a small free prototype created by students at Uppsala University in Sweden in 2016. The idea, surviving on a tiny raft in an endless ocean, caught the attention of millions, and the team went on to form Redbeet Interactive and release a full version in 2018 (Early Access) and 2022 (full release). This browser version captures the original survival concept that made Raft famous.

How to Play Raft: Rules and Objectives

You start on a few wooden planks in the middle of the ocean with a plastic hook. Debris such as planks, plastic, leaves and barrels floats past. Throw your hook to collect it, then use the materials to expand your raft and craft equipment. Survive as long as possible.

• Hunger and Thirst: Catch fish and purify water to stay alive.
• Crafting: Build tools, a water purifier, a grill and more.
• Raft Expansion: Add new foundations to make your raft bigger and more useful.
• The Shark: A shark circles the raft and bites off pieces. Defend your raft with a spear or repair damaged sections.

Controls and Movement Guide

• Move: W, A, S, D; jump with Spacebar.
• Look: Move the mouse.
• Throw Hook: Hold and release the left mouse button to throw, then hold to reel in.
• Inventory and Crafting: Open the menu with the inventory key shown on screen.
• Select Tools: Use number keys or the mouse wheel.

Proven Strategies and Pro Tips

1. Hook Everything Early: Plastic, planks and leaves are all needed for early crafting.
2. Build a Water Purifier Fast: Thirst becomes a problem quickly, and clean water is essential.
3. Craft a Spear: A spear lets you fight off the shark when it attacks.
4. Expand Carefully: A bigger raft catches more debris, but more edges means more for the shark to bite.

From Student Project to Hit Game

Raft is a great example of how a simple idea can grow into a successful game. The original student project went viral through video creators, and the full release added islands, a story and multiplayer. Playing the browser version shows the core loop that captured players' imaginations before any of those features existed.

Cognitive and Educational Benefits

• Resource Management: Balancing materials, food and water teaches planning.
• Problem Solving: Players figure out which items to craft first.
• Risk Awareness: Protecting the raft from the shark encourages caution.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)