Oxygen Not Included! Exploring the Depths of Space-Based Survival

Buckle up, fellow gamers! Today we’re venturing into the captivating world of Oxygen Not Included (ONI), a space-based colony sim that will test your resource management skills and leave you wondering if you’d survive five minutes on an asteroid. Developed by Klei Entertainment, the studio behind gems like Don’t Starve and Mark of the Ninja, ONI thrusts you into the role of manager for a small group of duplicants – genetically engineered colonists designed to survive harsh environments – as they struggle to carve out a sustainable existence within a frigid, oxygen-deprived asteroid.

The Story (or Lack Thereof) - Building Your Own Narrative

Unlike games with linear narratives and predetermined goals, ONI’s story is largely player-driven. There are no quests to complete or villainous empires to conquer. Instead, your primary objective is simple: keep your duplicants alive. You start with a handful of these resilient folks (with quirky personalities to boot) in a confined biodome filled with limited resources.

From there, the world (or rather, the asteroid) is your oyster. Explore new areas, research technologies, and build increasingly complex systems to manage everything from oxygen supply and food production to temperature regulation and waste disposal. Your duplicants will constantly remind you of their needs through witty dialogue and quirky animations, adding a layer of humor to the relentless struggle for survival.

The Core Mechanics - A Symphony of Systems

ONI is a masterclass in interconnected systems. Every element, from the air your duplicants breathe to the water they drink and the food they eat, requires careful management.

• Oxygen: The most crucial resource – duplicants need it to breathe! You’ll start with limited oxygen reserves and must quickly figure out how to produce more using algae terrariums or electrolyzers that split water into oxygen and hydrogen.
• Temperature: Keep your colony at a comfortable temperature, as extremes can be fatal. Utilize thermo regulators, thermal insulators, and natural heat sources like magma vents to maintain a hospitable environment.
• Food & Water: Duplicants need sustenance! Establish farms for crops like mealwood, raise critters in cages, or research advanced food production methods. Remember to provide clean water through filtration systems.

The Delightfully Complex World - Exploring the Asteroid’s Secrets

ONI’s world is procedurally generated, meaning every playthrough offers a unique asteroid to explore. Delve into new biomes filled with curious flora and fauna. Discover ancient ruins holding valuable resources and uncover hidden pathways leading to exciting new challenges. Beware though! The asteroid harbors dangers like polluted oxygen pockets and unstable rock formations that will test your strategic planning and quick thinking.

Building Your Empire - From Humble Biodome to Sprawling Colony

Start small, focusing on the essentials: oxygen, food, water, and a place for your duplicants to sleep. As you progress, research new technologies to unlock advanced building options like automated conveyor belts, oil refineries, and complex power generation systems powered by natural gas or coal.

Expand your colony, establishing multiple biomes each dedicated to specific tasks like agriculture, resource extraction, or scientific research. The possibilities are endless – from crafting luxurious bedrooms for your duplicants to constructing colossal rockets capable of launching them into deeper space.

Tips and Tricks - Surviving the Initial Hurdles

ONI’s learning curve can be steep initially. Here are a few tips to help you survive those first crucial cycles:

• Prioritize Oxygen: Secure a reliable oxygen supply early on – algae terrariums are your best friend in the beginning.
• Manage Temperature Carefully: Extreme temperatures can kill duplicants. Utilize thermal regulators and insulation to maintain a stable environment.
• Don’t Neglect Food: Establish mealwood farms or research critter ranching for sustainable food sources.

The Verdict - A Must-Have for Survival Enthusiasts

Oxygen Not Included is more than just a game – it’s a sandbox of endless possibilities where every decision has consequences. It’s challenging, rewarding, and endlessly entertaining, making it a must-have for anyone who enjoys intricate systems and emergent gameplay. So grab your oxygen mask, assemble your duplicants, and prepare to embark on an unforgettable adventure in the depths of space!