Best Negative Traits in Project Zomboid

To play and make specific character builds in Project Zomboid, players must balance their builds with both positive and negative traits. However, there are a ton of both positive and negative traits to choose from.

Because of this, it may prove to be a daunting task, and new players may feel unsure which should they pick or which is the best. Luckily, we will go over some of the best negative traits we like to pick during our playthroughs. But if you are looking for positive traits, you can find a link to a guide for the best positive traits below.

Related: Best Positive Traits in Project Zomboid Build 41

List of the Best Negative Traits in Project Zomboid

Smoker

Unlike in real life, being a smoker in Project Zomboid is not all that bad and doesn't cause any health risks. 

However, if you go a while without smoking, you will become unhappy until you reach the point of depression.

Luckily this is manageable as long as you have a steady supply of cigarettes. Because of this, it's an easy +4 points that can be used to get an extra positive trait.

• Points added: +4

Out of Shape

Many argue that players can remove the Out of shape trait as long as they exercise regularly and increase their fitness. Because of this, we would recommend giving it a try as it can easily help you get a high-cost positive trait.

But keep in mind that you will need to deal with this trait's adverse side effects for the early portion of your game, which is low endurance and endurance regeneration. 

• Points added: +6

Weak Stomach

The Weak Stomach trait causes the player to have more food illnesses but is easily avoided if you watch what you eat in the game.

This Negative trait can also be mitigated by simply ensuring you cook your food correctly in Project Zomboid. 

• Points added: +3

Slow Reader

Another low side effect trait we would recommend choosing is Slow Reader, and the reason is simple. It doesn't really change anything as reading in Project Zomboid is already slow at normal speed.

Plus, you can easily speed the process up by hitting the fast-forward button at the top of your screen. However, keep in mind you won't have this button in multiplayer, so we would avoid choosing it with multiplayer characters. 

• Points added: +2

Short Sighted 

One of the best traits frequently recommended by the Project Zomboid community is Short-Sighted. Although the description of the negative trait says it decreases the player's vision, It appears not to affect the character in any noticeable way. Because of this, it's an easy +2 point that can go towards a decent positive trait.

• Points added: +2

Slow Healer

Slow Healer is another decent negative trait that you can easily deal with in Project Zomboid. In short, when you get injured, just avoid combat and take it easy for a few days and let your wounds heal. 

• Points added: +6

For more guides on Project Zomboid, we at Pro Game Guides have you covered with an ever-expanding roster of guides!