Netflix’s survival reality shows transport viewers to remote locations and offer a window into different cultures around the world. By focusing on survival skills, exploring the depths of the human psyche, and transporting viewers to different parts of the world, these shows bring a fresh perspective to the reality TV genre. If you love survival reality shows, here are a few shows you might want to check out.
1. You vs. Wild (2019)
Directed by Ben Simms and starred Bear Grylls himself, who is well-known for his adventurous nature and survival skills. In “You vs. Wild,” Bear embarks on a series of missions in different parts of the world, each with their own unique challenges. The audience is given the opportunity to make choices for Bear at crucial moments during the mission, such as deciding which path to take or what survival gear to use.
If the audience makes the wrong decision, it could lead to dangerous consequences and result in Bear failing to complete the mission. If they make the right decision, however, they can help Bear overcome obstacles and complete the mission successfully.
2. Outlast (2023-)
“Outlast” is a 2023 Netflix survival reality show in which 16 contestants are dropped off in the Alaskan wilderness with nothing but the clothes on their backs and a few basic survival tools. They must work together to build shelter, find food, and stay alive in the harsh conditions. The last team standing wins a $1 million prize.
The show is hosted by Jordan Jonas, a former Navy SEAL who is known for his expertise in survival. Jonas puts the contestants through a series of challenges that test their physical and mental strength. The challenges include building a raft, catching fish, and navigating through the wilderness. The contestants on “Outlast” are a diverse group of people from all walks of life. They include former military members, firefighters, athletes, and everyday people who are looking for a challenge.
3. Snowflake Mountains (2022)
“Snowflake Mountains” follows a group of “snowflakes” (over-protected young adults) who are taken to a wilderness survival retreat in the hopes that they will learn to toughen up and become more self-reliant.
The show is hosted by Joel Graves and Matt Tate, two former military survivalists who put the contestants through a series of challenges, including building their own shelters, foraging for food, and navigating the wilderness. The contestants are also given tasks that test their teamwork and problem-solving skills.
4. Win the wilderness (2020 – )
“Win the Wilderness” is a thrilling and inspiring reality show that highlights the beauty and challenges of living in the Alaskan wilderness. The plot follows six couples as they compete for the chance to win their own home in the wilderness of Alaska. The show is directed by Mark Henderson and features stunning cinematography of the Alaskan wilderness.
Each couple is paired with one of two former homesteaders, Duane and Rena Ose, who will serve as their mentors throughout the competition. The couples are put through a series of grueling physical challenges, testing their survival skills and their ability to work together as a team.
The ultimate prize for the winning couple is a fully-furnished cabin and 10 acres of land in the remote Alaskan wilderness. The cabin is equipped with all the necessary amenities for off-the-grid living, including solar panels, a wood stove, and a well for water. The winning couple will have to continue to use their survival skills to live off the land and thrive in the harsh Alaskan environment.
5. Southern Survival (2020)
Directed by Brian Nashel and produced by Irad Eyal and Andy Weiss. It follows the staff of a family-owned business named Battlbox as they test and review survival gear and tools in various extreme situations. Each episode of “Southern Survival” takes the viewer on a journey as the team tests out various survival gear and tools in different scenarios such as extreme weather conditions, floodings, and animal encounters. They often put themselves at risk to test out the gear and present their honest opinions and reviews to the audience.
Apart from putting the gear to the test, the team also provides viewers with useful tips and tricks on how to survive in different situations. Alongside the testing and reviews, there are also lighthearted moments between the cast members that add a touch of humor to the show.
6. Siren: Survive the Island (2023 – )
“Siren: Survive the Island” is a 2023 South Korean reality competition show on Netflix. The show features six teams of four women, each from a different profession: police, firefighters, soldiers, guards, athletes, and stunt performers. The teams are dropped onto a deserted island and must compete in a series of challenges to survive. The last team standing wins the prize of ₩100 million (US$85,000). The show is exciting, suspenseful, and full of action. The challenges are also very well-designed, and they test the teams’ physical and mental strength in a variety of ways.
7. The Law of the Jungle (2023 – )
“The Law of the Jungle” is a reality competition show that features 12 celebrities who are dropped off in a remote jungle location and must survive for 40 days. The celebrities are divided into two teams and must compete in a series of challenges to earn food and other resources. The team with the most points at the end of the 40 days wins the competition.