Oxygen Not Included (ONI) plunges players into the intriguing and challenging world of subterranean survival. Developed by Klei Entertainment, renowned for titles like Don’t Starve and Mark of the Ninja, ONI tasks you with establishing and sustaining a self-sufficient colony beneath the surface of a hostile asteroid.
Prepare to embrace complexity as you navigate intricate resource management, technological advancement, and the constant struggle against limited oxygen and other environmental hazards. This game is not for the faint of heart; it demands strategic thinking, meticulous planning, and the ability to adapt to unforeseen circumstances.
The Story Unfolds: From Duplicants to a Thriving Colony
ONI’s narrative revolves around a group of quirky, cloned individuals called Duplicants sent to establish an outpost on an asteroid rich in resources but devoid of breathable air. Your mission is to guide these Duplicants through the perils of subterranean life, constructing living spaces, extracting vital resources, and developing technologies to overcome environmental challenges.
The story unfolds organically as you progress through the game. Encounter unexpected events, from geysers erupting with molten magma to mischievous asteroid critters infiltrating your base. Each challenge requires careful consideration and innovative solutions, pushing you to think creatively and adapt to ever-changing circumstances.
Themes of Survival and Resource Management: A Symphony of Complexity
Survival is the cornerstone of ONI. Your Duplicants need food, water, oxygen, and a stable temperature environment to thrive. Maintaining these essential needs while simultaneously expanding your colony and exploring new depths requires masterful resource management.
- Oxygen Production: Early game focuses on creating oxygen difluoride from polluted water and extracting methane from nearby pockets. As you progress, advanced technologies like algae terrariums and electrolysis become crucial for sustaining your growing population.
- Food Chain: Cultivating a sustainable food chain is vital. From basic slime Ranchers to advanced hydroponics setups, ONI offers various methods to ensure your Duplicants never go hungry. Experiment with different crops, utilize bioreactors for protein production, and discover the delicious possibilities of algae-based cuisine.
Building and Automation: The Art of Colony Efficiency
ONI provides a robust suite of tools for constructing elaborate base layouts and automating crucial processes.
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Construction: From basic rooms to intricate conveyor systems, you’ll utilize ONI’s intuitive building mechanics to craft a thriving colony. Each structure serves a specific purpose, from oxygen diffusers that release breathable air to latrines for managing Duplicant hygiene.
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Automation: Optimize your colony’s efficiency through automation. Programmable robots known as “bots” can be tasked with various chores like mining resources, transporting materials, and even cleaning up messes. Utilize logic gates and sensors to create complex automated systems that streamline production and resource distribution.
A Peek into the World of ONI: Gameplay Mechanics and Features
ONI is a game rich in depth and detail. Let’s delve into some key gameplay mechanics and features:
- Research: Unlock new technologies and structures through a comprehensive research tree. Experiment with various research paths to discover groundbreaking advancements that can dramatically alter your colony’s capabilities.
- Stress and Duplicant Quirks:
Each Duplicant possesses unique traits, skills, and quirks that influence their performance. Manage stress levels carefully, as excessive stress can lead to negative behaviors and productivity declines. Use leisure activities, comfortable living conditions, and social interactions to keep your Duplicants happy and motivated.
- Temperature and Pressure: The asteroid’s environment is unforgiving. Carefully regulate temperature and pressure within your base to ensure the survival of your Duplicants. Utilize specialized structures like thermo regulators and gas pumps to maintain a habitable atmosphere.
Mastering the Subterranean Challenge: Tips for Success
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Prioritize Oxygen Production: Your colony cannot survive without breathable air. Focus on securing reliable oxygen sources early in the game.
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Expand Slowly and Strategically: Avoid hasty expansion that can strain your resources. Carefully plan your base layout, considering factors like proximity to resource deposits and accessibility for Duplicants.
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Embrace Automation: Utilize bots and logic circuits to automate tedious tasks. This frees up your Duplicants for more complex endeavors.
Conclusion: A Universe of Possibilities Awaits
Oxygen Not Included is a masterclass in sandbox gameplay, challenging players with intricate systems and demanding strategic thinking. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to the genre, ONI offers a unique and rewarding experience that will keep you captivated for hours on end.
So dive into this subterranean world, embrace the complexity, and forge your own path to success in the face of relentless environmental challenges!