Oxygen Not Included – A Deep Dive into Space Colony Survival!

Prepare for liftoff and buckle up because we’re diving headfirst into Oxygen Not Included (ONI), Klei Entertainment’s critically acclaimed space colony simulation. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill, resource gathering survival game. ONI throws you onto an unforgiving asteroid with a handful of duplicants – lovable but slightly inept colonists who rely on you for their every need. From oxygenating the air to managing waste disposal and everything in between, you are the architect of life in this harsh extraterrestrial environment.
The beauty of ONI lies in its intricate systems and emergent gameplay. It’s a game where meticulous planning meets chaotic improvisation.
Let’s delve into what makes Oxygen Not Included tick:
Survival by Design: The Core Mechanics
At its heart, ONI revolves around three fundamental pillars: Oxygen, Temperature, and Food.
- Oxygen: Your duplicants, bless their little hearts, need to breathe. Maintaining a steady supply of oxygen is paramount. You’ll start with basic Algae Terrariums, but as your colony grows, you’ll need to explore more advanced methods like Electrolyzers, which split water into oxygen and hydrogen.
- Temperature: Everything in ONI has an ideal temperature range – duplicants, resources, even the machinery you build. Too cold? Hypothermia sets in. Too hot? It’s a meltdown waiting to happen (literally!).
Maintaining thermal balance is an ongoing puzzle; think of it as playing Tetris with thermostats and insulation.
- Food: Duplicants are hungry little creatures. You’ll need to cultivate crops, raise mealworms, or even experiment with algae-based dishes.
The food cycle in ONI is surprisingly complex, requiring careful consideration of nutrient content, calorie intake, and the ever-present threat of spoiled food.
Beyond the Basics: Advanced Systems and Challenges
ONI shines through its depth and complexity. As you progress, you’ll encounter a plethora of interconnected systems that require constant attention:
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Water: Essential for oxygen production and plant growth, water management is critical. You’ll need to locate underground aquifers, purify contaminated sources, and even develop strategies for rainwater harvesting.
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Waste Management: Let’s face it, duplicants generate a lot of waste – both solid and liquid. Neglecting this aspect can lead to disastrous consequences. From composting toilets to advanced sewage treatment plants, you’ll need to find innovative solutions to keep your colony clean and healthy.
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Power Generation: Every machine, every light bulb requires power. Early on, coal generators will suffice, but as your colony expands, you’ll need to explore renewable energy sources like solar panels, wind turbines, and even geothermal plants.
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Research and Development:
ONI features a robust research tree that unlocks new technologies and structures. By analyzing discovered materials and conducting experiments, you can unlock the secrets of space travel, advanced agriculture, and even genetic engineering.
The Duplicants: Quirks and Personalities
One of ONI’s most charming elements is its diverse cast of duplicants. Each comes with unique traits, skills, and even phobias!
Trait | Description | Example |
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Strong: | Enhanced carrying capacity and digging speed | Burly Bob can haul twice as much dirt or ore. |
Greedy: | Requires more food and prefers richer meals | Gluttonous Gertrude will devour all the premium meals in sight! |
- Clumsy: Prone to accidents and spills | Butterfingers Beatrice is always dropping things. Keep her away from delicate equipment!
Managing these quirks adds another layer of challenge and humor to the game. A grumpy duplicant with a phobia of space might not be thrilled about exploring new biomes, while a naturally gifted engineer can accelerate your research progress.
A Universe of Possibilities: Mods and Sandbox Play
ONI boasts a thriving modding community that constantly expands the game’s possibilities. From new content packs to gameplay tweaks, mods allow you to tailor the experience to your liking.
Whether you crave a more challenging scenario or want to explore wacky sci-fi concepts, there’s a mod out there for you! Additionally, ONI offers a robust sandbox mode, letting you experiment with different settings and mechanics without the pressure of survival. Want unlimited resources? Go for it!
Final Verdict: A Stellar Experience for Simulation Fans
Oxygen Not Included is not for the faint of heart; it’s a complex and demanding game that will test your planning skills, creativity, and even patience at times. But the rewards are immense. Seeing your colony thrive amidst the unforgiving asteroid environment is incredibly satisfying.
If you’re looking for a deep, engaging simulation experience with endless replayability, Oxygen Not Included is a must-play!