Each survivor is assigned one main skill, akin to a character class. This skill can be improved through experience or training. The main player is an exception, as they can level up all five of their skills.
A skill can be levelled up to a maximum of 10, and it can be raised above that using equipment and perks.
A survivor's non-main skills can't be levelled up (unless they change their main skill first in schools), but they can be improved using equipment and perks. Non-main skills function normally in missions.
In addition to the benefits in mission, higher skill level generally gives better dialogue options in events, especially with leadership.
Leading[ | ]
Character's leadership and charisma. This skill affects:
- Chance of successfully recruiting new survivors (In the form of better dialogue options)
- Better dialogue options with merchants and gang leaders
- Better dialogue options in many events.
- Amount of happiness increase when the character is working in bars or churches
Defense (Soldier)[ | ]
This is a bit of a misnomer, as it affects both attacking and defending. The effects are:
- Overall mission danger level reduction.
- Chance and efficiency to successfully kill zombies, raid or attack other factions.
- Adds to the building's defense rating when the character is guarding buildings.
Scavenging[ | ]
Character's knack for finding useful things. This skill affects:
- Finds more stuff, faster and safer in scavenging mission
- Produces more food when farming, hunting, or fishing
Building[ | ]
Character's skill in building. The effects are:
- Builds, reclaims, and demolish faster (the effect is non-continuous)
- Find more material when chopping wood
Engineering[ | ]
Character's knowledge of various scientific disciplines. This skill affects:
- The speed at which research is completed
- The speed at which items are produced in a workshop
- The speed at which electricity and running water is fixed.