The “Problem” stat in My Winter Car is a survival mechanic that simulates alcohol dependency, similar to how hunger, thirst, and body temperature work in the game. Instead of just being “thirsty,” your character is an alcoholic, so the only way to reduce the Problem bar is by drinking alcohol, not water.
How the Problem stat works
The Problem bar functions as a hidden alcohol dependency meter that slowly fills while you remain sober. If left unchecked, it increases stress and reduces control, making driving and cold survival noticeably harder. Eating food or drinking water has little to no effect on the Problem bar, only alcohol like beer or vodka reduces it. This is by design, signaling that the bar represents alcohol dependence rather than simple thirst or hunger.
However, drinking too much raises your intoxication level, which makes the car harder to handle, increases the chance of crashing, and can attract police attention. So the trick is to drink just enough to keep Problem low, but not so much that you’re too drunk to function.
How to Tackle the Problem Bar
Managing Alcohol Dependence
Beer and other alcohol, which reduces the Problem bar, can be purchased from two main locations along the main road near your starting house:
- Pub Nappo (Peräjärvi): Open in the evening (around 8 PM–2 AM). Sells beer, vodka, and other drinks. Buy bottles or crates directly from the bar.
- PSK Gas Station: A 24/7 highway stop that sells crates of beer, along with food, snacks, and car parts, ideal for quick refills.
Curing the Problem Bar
It’s possible to permanently remove the Problem stat by completing the in-game alcoholism cure. This requires staying completely sober for several in-game hours while carefully managing hunger, thirst, temperature, and fatigue, and following a specific routine (such as sleeping at the right times and avoiding triggers). Once cured, the Problem bar will no longer increase, allowing you to play without relying on alcohol.
Rewards and benefits of managing Problem
Successfully managing the Problem bar gives several benefits:
- Lower stress and better control of your character.
- Safer driving and fewer accidents or police encounters.
- Ability to focus on car repairs, jobs, and exploration without constant cravings.
- Option to permanently cure alcoholism for a more “clean” survival run.
Understanding the Problem Stat
The Problem stat in My Winter Car cleverly simulates alcoholism as a survival challenge. It decreases only with alcohol, requiring careful balance to stay functional. Mastering it allows smooth gameplay, and with patience, you can even cure it permanently for a fresh, more challenging experience.
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