The helicopter event in Project Zomboid is a major challenge that occurs between days six and nine of the game, typically between nine am or seven pm. The helicopter will make multiple passes on the same day, spending one to four hours in the area. This event can be a major threat to players, as the helicopter can spot and track their location, leading hordes of zombies to their location. However, with the right knowledge and preparation, players can successfully survive the helicopter event.
One of the key ways to tell if a helicopter event is going to happen is to check the emergency broadcast system (EBS) for the phrase “air activity detected.” If you see this message, it means that the helicopter is coming today. The EBS can be a lifesaver for new players in the game, as it provides important information about the weather, zombie, and other events happening in the game. Every radio in the game has the potential to broadcast the EBS, and the frequency is randomized with each run, so players can’t just memorize it. Once a player has a radio, they will hear the weather broadcast every hour on the hour.
To find the right channel for the EBS, players need to start by turning on their radio. Then, they should look through the drop-down menu of channels until they find the EBS Radio. The channel may or may not be listed under its name, so players may need to keep looking through different radios until they find it. Once they have found the channel, they should write down the number so they can easily tune in to it on any radio.
When players hear the EBS announcing the helicopter event, they have two main options for survival. The first option is to try to get in their bug-out vehicle and head out of town. This can be a good option for players who have a vehicle and enough fuel to make it out of the city. However, if players are unable to leave the city, they can try to huff it on foot, being careful to avoid being spotted by the helicopter. If players are spotted, the helicopter will track their location, leading the hordes of zombies to their location.
The second option for survival is to find a building and hunker down, fortifying it as best as possible. This option is riskier but can be successful if players are able to hold out long enough for the helicopter to leave. Players should look for a building that has multiple floors and windows, as this will make it harder for zombies to break in. Once they have found a suitable building, they should fortify it by boarding up windows, setting traps, and gathering supplies. Players should also make sure to have enough food and water to last them through the helicopter event.
In addition to fortifying their building, players should also be prepared to defend themselves against the hordes of zombies that will be attracted to their location by the helicopter. Players should have a good weapon, such as a gun or a melee weapon, and enough ammunition to defend themselves. They should also be prepared to make quick escapes if necessary, such as by having a rope or ladder ready to use to escape from a second-story window.
In conclusion, the helicopter event in Project Zomboid can be a major challenge for players, but with the right knowledge and preparation, it can be successfully survived. Players should keep an eye on the EBS for announcements of the event, and have a plan in place to either leave the city or fortify a building. They should also be prepared to defend themselves against the hordes of zombies attracted to their location by the helicopter and be prepared for quick escape if necessary. With these steps in place, players can successfully survive the helicopter event and continue on their journey in Project Zomboid.