Oxygen Not Included: A Hilariously Challenging Base-Building Sim in Space!

Oxygen Not Included:  A Hilariously Challenging Base-Building Sim in Space!

Prepare yourselves, aspiring space colonists, for a truly unique and captivating experience – Oxygen Not Included (ONI)! This gem of a game from Klei Entertainment throws you into the unforgiving depths of an asteroid, tasking you with establishing a self-sustaining colony. Don’t let the cute art style fool you; ONI is a hardcore simulation that will test your wit, planning skills, and perhaps even your sanity.

The premise is deceptively simple: a team of duplicants (your adorable, clone-like colonists) arrive on an asteroid with limited resources and a gargantuan task – survive! Oxygen, water, food, and temperature regulation are all essential factors that need constant monitoring and adjustment. Think of it as juggling flaming torches while riding a unicycle on a tightrope – exhilarating and terrifying all at once.

Diving Deep into the Mechanics

ONI boasts an intricate system of interconnected mechanics that drive its gameplay loop. You’ll be managing resources like a meticulous accountant, carefully balancing production chains to ensure your duplicants have everything they need.

  • Resource Gathering and Processing: From mining raw materials like iron ore and coal to cultivating crops in hydrophonic farms, resource gathering forms the backbone of your colony. But it doesn’t stop there! You’ll need to refine these resources into usable forms, crafting machines, tools, and infrastructure to further develop your base.

  • Power Generation: Keeping the lights on (quite literally) is crucial for survival. ONI offers various power generation options, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Will you harness geothermal energy from the asteroid’s core, utilize the power of solar panels, or experiment with more exotic solutions like burning methane?

  • Oxygen Production: As the name suggests, oxygen is vital for your duplicants to breathe. Initially, they rely on their limited oxygen reserves, but sustaining them long-term requires dedicated oxygen production facilities.

  • Temperature Control: Maintaining a comfortable temperature range within your base is essential for both your duplicant’s well-being and the efficiency of your machines. ONI’s physics engine accurately simulates heat transfer, meaning you need to carefully plan your base layout and utilize heating and cooling systems to ensure optimal conditions.

The Duplicants: More than Just Pawns

Your duplicants are more than just robotic workers; they have personalities, skills, and even quirks that add a layer of depth and unpredictability to the game. Each duplicant arrives with unique traits that influence their strengths and weaknesses. Some might be exceptional miners, while others excel at research or farming. Managing their needs, ensuring they stay happy (or at least reasonably content) is crucial for maximizing their productivity and minimizing those “oops” moments like accidental electrocutions.

The Challenges: Embrace the Chaos!

ONI thrives on throwing curveballs your way. Expect asteroid eruptions, unexpected infestations of critters, and the occasional meteor shower that can turn your meticulously planned base into a pile of rubble (it happens to the best of us!). This constant threat of disaster adds an element of tension and excitement, forcing you to adapt, improvise, and overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

The Beauty of Emergence: It’s All Connected

One of the most captivating aspects of ONI is its emergent gameplay. Every decision you make has a ripple effect throughout your colony, creating complex and unexpected interactions between systems.

For instance, building a large algae terrarium to produce oxygen might seem straightforward. However, it also generates heat, potentially affecting nearby machinery or requiring additional cooling solutions. This interconnectedness fosters a sense of discovery as you experiment with different strategies and observe the consequences unfold before you.

A Visual Treat: Pixel Art that Pops!

ONI’s charming pixel art style perfectly complements its gameplay. The intricate animations of your duplicants, the detailed textures of machines and buildings, and the vibrant color palette create a visually appealing world that is both delightful and engaging.

Sound Design: From Soothing Melodies to Frantic Alarms The sound design in ONI plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall experience. Soothing background music sets a calming atmosphere during periods of stability, while tense sound effects signal impending danger, reminding you to stay alert and react accordingly.

Building Your Dream Colony: Endless Possibilities Await

ONI is a game that rewards experimentation and creativity. With its modular design and vast array of building options, you have the freedom to construct elaborate underground complexes, sprawling surface bases, or even floating structures if you’re feeling particularly ambitious. The possibilities are truly limited only by your imagination (and perhaps the available resources).

Embrace the Challenge: Will Your Colony Thrive?

Oxygen Not Included is not for the faint of heart. It’s a game that demands patience, perseverance, and a healthy dose of problem-solving skills. But don’t let the difficulty scare you away; overcoming the challenges and witnessing your colony flourish is an immensely satisfying experience. Prepare to lose track of time as you delve into this captivating world of base building, resource management, and emergent gameplay.

Ready for Liftoff?

If you’re looking for a simulation game that will test your limits while offering endless hours of entertainment, Oxygen Not Included is the perfect choice. It’s a game that rewards creativity, strategic thinking, and a touch of masochistic delight in overcoming seemingly impossible odds.

So, strap yourselves in, aspiring colonists! The asteroid awaits, and with it, the promise of an unforgettable adventure.