Survivors come in 3 different categories, although essentially the same, they still have a few core differences. 2 are controlled by an AI (read: Artificial Intelligence), and the third by actual players.
1. Roaming Survivors
These are the first of the 2 AI-controlled survivor categories and can appear in three-skull, non-timed areas every 5-6 minutes but they do, however, share this timer with Spitters (Dark Woods and Rich Mine) and forest boars (Bloody Hunting) so the main character may have to wait longer.
Their difficulty is mostly determined by the random set of gear they arrive with and ranges from easy to hard (see examples in the info box to the right).
Survivor 1 can be found in Sparse Woods. His name is Nate. He carries a wooden bat and wears a cap. When the main character enters the forest, he will come after the main character in a few minutes regardless of opening the first chest or not
there is also a instance where if you wait in your base long enough a nod carrying, a wooden chest, a low durability fire axe, and a piece of clothing
2. One-time Encounters
Second category of the AI-controlled survivors, these are found inside the 3 survivor bases visible on your Map as you unlock new areas.
3. Other Players
This category of survivors cannot actually be met yet, but as the main character begins to attack other survivors’ bases through the PvP system, these guys will start attacking the main character's, as well.