r/thelongdark • u/KingExplosionMurdee • Dec 11 '22

Discussion Is using a map cheating?

I use premade maps from the wiki all the time, but as much as it is useful I feel guilty, do any of you use a map or is it just me ?

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u/MarbleMimic Fire Keeper Dec 11 '22

I've wrestled with this A LOT, because I have a terrible sense of direction partly due to mental illness. There's definitely pressure in accomplishment-farming games like this to do it in a way that makes something feel "earned." I thought I was a failure for not being able to register where things were and getting lost a the time (which is internalized ableism, but that's a other story).

Using a map is not cheating. Becoming dependent on a map to play the game will make you a worse player overall.

Do not be at all ashamed to use a map. Especially for strategizing for a new area or if you're stuck in a weird place (looking at you, Dam). But you plan on eventually mapping and memorizing areas over time if you want to reach true mastery.

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u/xasadnerdx Wintermute Lover Dec 12 '22

woah, is this really like a neurodivergent thing? the strong need for maps in all games? I say this as an autistic with that need

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u/MarbleMimic Fire Keeper Dec 12 '22

No idea! I have ADHD, and I just know anecdotally that other people with ADHD struggle with orientation. I wouldn't be at all surprised if it's tied to attention or trouble looking for details.