: This 2018 study published in the Ecology, Economy and Society Journal uses field experiments to examine how games can influence mental models regarding ecology and resource management.

: Analysts at Corrosion Hour highlight how the game blends "Metroidvania" progression (requiring specific tools like rebreathers to access new areas) with open-world survival. How to Download and Play

: Unlike many survival games, The Forest uses non-textual narrative cues—such as passenger manifests, children's drawings, and camera footage—to allow players to piece together the mystery of the island.