So You Just Started Identity V? Here’s How Not to Get Hunted on Day One

If you’ve just downloaded Identity V—NetEase’s hauntingly stylish asymmetrical horror game—you’re in for a wild ride. It’s fast, tense, and dripping with gothic charm, but let’s be honest: your first few matches can feel like being thrown into a haunted mansion with no map and one shoelace untied. Don’t worry—everyone starts somewhere. Here’s a no-nonsense guide to help you survive (or hunt) like a pro.

First, Pick Your Side: Survivor or Hunter?

Identity V pits four Survivors against one Hunter. As a newbie, I’d actually recommend starting as a Survivor. Why? The learning curve is gentler, and you’ll pick up map flow, cipher mechanics, and Hunter behavior faster by playing in a team.

That said, if you’re drawn to the thrill of the chase, go ahead and try a beginner-friendly Hunter like Smiley or Ripper. They’re straightforward—Smiley has a dash, Ripper has an AoE slow—and great for learning positioning and timing.

Survivor Tips: Stay Calm, Stay Quiet

Focus on ciphers, not chaos. Your main job is to decode 7 cipher machines. Don’t wander off alone early game—stick with teammates to avoid getting picked off.
Use your character’s skill wisely. Some, like Gardner (with his pigeon distraction) or Lucky Guy (with his lucky dice), have forgiving kits for new players.
Don’t panic when the Hunter shows up. If you’re not the target, keep decoding. If you are, run smart: use windows, pallets, and terrain to juke. Don’t just sprint in a straight line—that’s how you end up on a chair.
Hunter Tips: Patience > Power

Learn map layouts first. Knowing where ciphers cluster and where escape routes are helps you cut off Survivors before they even react.
Don’t spam your skill. Most Hunter abilities have cooldowns. Use them to secure a hit or stop a rescue—not just because it’s flashy.
Watch for telltale signs. Freshly decoded ciphers glow, and Survivors leave footprints. Use these cues, especially when your vision is limited.
Gear Up Without Overspending

Identity V is free-to-play, but if you want to unlock characters faster or grab some stylish cosmetics, topping up is tempting (and totally understandable). If you do decide to recharge, Buffget is currently offering 30% off—meaning you get more for less, with no hassle. Just keep it smart; you don’t need to spend big to enjoy the game.

Final Thought: Lose Gracefully, Learn Constantly

You’ll get stomped. You’ll misread a pallet. You’ll accidentally vault into the Hunter’s arms. It happens to everyone—even veterans. The key is to watch replays, notice what went wrong, and try again. Identity V rewards awareness, timing, and teamwork far more than reflexes alone.

So take a breath, pick a character that clicks with you, and step into the fog. The Manor’s waiting—and this time, you might just make it out alive.