Syed Imran Haider 
If you like survival games, then Pacific Drive is right up your alley, as it offers a blend of a surreal sci-fi setting with the realism of car maintenance. It may be a punishing game, but it remains consistently intriguing at every turn because it will test both your wits and your driving proficiency.
The plot
ARDA, a scientific corporate body, did some suspicious meddling after which an area of the Pacific Northwest, which is now called the Olympic Exclusion Zone, has been walled off. It has become overrun with pulsating and perplexing horrors named Anomalies, while there are some scientists in the area who are investigating the woodlands.
You take the role of Driver, a mute entity who is driving a large automobile. To find out how you got there, you have to go exploring the captivating landscape of Pacific Drive, with your station wagon, trove of tools and some radio chatter.
The car
The car you are driving is not just a regular dealership junker; it will slowly become your best friend. Unknown supernatural forces link it to you, which means your fates are tied. Thus, your wellbeing is connected to the car, which means you have to take care of it. This is something you can do at the Garage, which is owned by an ex-ARDA scientist named Oppy, and gives you access to everything you need for maintaining your vehicle.
Not only do you need to worry about keeping the Driver alive, but you also have to pay attention to your car’s tyre wear, battery life and fuel gauge. You also need to repair torn-off doors, busted panels and cracked windows. Specific tools are needed for these problems, along with a variety of materials that can be found in the open world.
Interesting elements
There are a lot of hazards that you have to dodge and the good thing about your vehicle is that it develops a personality of its own. It has some unique quirks, such popping the hood to block your vision, or switching off the engine, depending on the conditions. While it is fun to diagnose a quirk, getting stuck with one you cannot figure out can really kill the momentum.
Nonetheless, taking the break is not always bad because it gives you time to plan. You can also create a shopping list to figure out what parts you need next to make upgrades to your vehicle for better protection. The Garage also has a Detailing section that you need to unlock by exploring the forest and this will help you customize your wagon. You can decorate with antennas, stickers and bobbleheads. There are also ornamental objects and decals you can use.
The Verdict
Pacific Drive proves to be a survival game based in an unnerving and strange world that has some interesting excursions to keep you occupied. The lack of human interaction may get a bit off-putting, but you remain on your toes at every step and the car maintenance is also a fun element.
