Finding north | Navigation DayZ - ArmA 2 mod Guide
Last update: 11 May 2016
Watch
Finding north without the compass is something you should learn as fast as possible, so that you don't get lost while searching for the compass or GPS. One of the most commonly found items in DayZ is the watch. As you might have guessed, it's functions go beyond just showing time, as you can use it as a makeshift compass. This method can be of course used only during the day, when objects cast shadows. Find a tall tree, a lamppost (as seen in the above screen) or a pole of any kind and set the watch so that the hour hand points at the sun (and the shadow casting object). The imaginary line between the hour hand and noon on the watch represents a line going north and south.
Clouds movement
Clouds movement is a big facilitation in DayZ. No long explanation needed here - clouds always head east. Big, high placed clouds always don't move, but the lower layer moves rather clearly. Just take a closer look at them.
Stars
The night sky in DayZ looks just like the one which can be seen in real life. Constellations visible from our hemisphere can be seen on the in-game sky as well. Because of that, you can find the polar star and therefore geographical north. It's best to start from finding the Ursa Major, one of the brightest constellations. When you find it, draw a line between the two stars at the front of the constellation. Follow it and you will find the polar star, which also marks the start of the Ursa Minor's "handle". It's a very big and bright star (marked with a red circle in the above screen), so finding it shouldn't be too hard if only the sky isn't filled with clouds. Face the polar star and you will be facing north.
Sun
One of the most obvious ways of determining directions is observing the sun. With this method, knowing which time it is on the server is of course crucial. In order to find north, place the sun to your right during the morning and on your left during the evening. It's that simple.
Reference to the coast
In the end, one of the easiest ways of finding north which however can be used only if you're near the shore. Chernarus connects with the sea in the south and east. If you're at the south coast, turn your back to the sea and north will be in front of you. On the east coast you will find north by having the sea to your right.