No, that’s different.
Base building is still optional, survival elements would be a core element.
It is not optional. You have to deal with the bases. Optional would be the base building/defense was a DLC that you could add or not have on your map.
Only choice is you do not have to build a base. But nothing stops them from becoming fnix bases. And base building was not part of the game 4 years ago. You are no longer hunting machines but attacking bases and then defend them. That is a completely different game.
But can also ignore that, therefore it’s optional, even if it’s always there.
Completely agree this would add that extra element to it that it needs
Not that you’re wrong, it would add a bit of realism. I wouldn’t play any longer though. If I wanted to eat, drink, be hot or cold, or even need a bathroom break, I’ll do it IRL no need to simulate it too. This is what I found to be annoying in ark and fallout both and I’m happy GZ doesn’t work that way. It becomes too much of a chore to track not to mention it’s going to complicate inventory management even further with the need to carry food, water, and toilet paper.