Oxygen Not Included: A Hilariously Brutal Simulation of Surviving on an Alien World!

Oxygen Not Included: A Hilariously Brutal Simulation of Surviving on an Alien World!

Prepare to embark on a journey unlike any other, one filled with the joyous cacophony of exploding toilets, the bittersweet symphony of oxygen running out, and the sheer terror of facing a meteor shower with only duplicants wielding shovels. Welcome to Oxygen Not Included, Klei Entertainment’s masterful blend of resource management, base building, and darkly comedic survival.

This isn’t your typical space colony sim. Forget expansive planets with bountiful resources; in Oxygen Not Included, you’re dropped onto a seemingly lifeless asteroid with nothing but a handful of duplicants (adorable little colonists) and the daunting task of carving out a habitable existence. Your primary objective: survive long enough to escape this hostile rock.

The game unfolds like a complex, yet captivating puzzle box. Every action you take has cascading consequences, demanding meticulous planning and adaptation. Need more oxygen? Dig deeper for polluted water, refine it into clean oxygen, and meticulously pipe it throughout your base. Running low on power? Harness the geothermal energy of the asteroid’s core, but be careful not to overheat everything.

The Duplicants: More Than Just Cogs in Your Machine

One of Oxygen Not Included’s greatest strengths lies in its endearing duplicants. These quirky individuals aren’t simply robots following your commands; they possess unique traits, skills, and even moods. A duplicant might be exceptionally strong but prone to panic attacks. Another could be a skilled researcher but suffers from severe allergies.

Understanding their personalities is crucial for optimizing your colony’s efficiency. Assign tasks based on their strengths, manage their stress levels with entertainment and relaxation, and prepare them for unexpected emergencies. After all, what’s a colony without its lovable inhabitants?

The Science of Survival: Balancing Resources and Needs

Oxygen Not Included prides itself on its depth and complexity. Resource management is the game’s beating heart, forcing you to juggle a delicate balance of oxygen, water, food, power, and countless other necessities. Every element plays a critical role in your colony’s survival, from the humble algae terrariums producing precious oxygen to the intricate machinery converting polluted dirt into fertile soil.

The learning curve can be steep at first, but the game provides excellent tutorials and an in-depth encyclopedia to guide you. Don’t be afraid to experiment, make mistakes, and learn from your failures – because death is a constant companion in this unforgiving world.

A Feast for the Eyes and Ears: The Visuals and Sound Design

The game’s charming pixel art style and vibrant color palette perfectly capture the quirky charm of Oxygen Not Included. Watching your colony evolve from a humble cluster of rooms to a sprawling, interconnected network is immensely satisfying.

Complementing the visuals is an equally impressive soundtrack that dynamically adjusts to the mood and tension of the game. From the gentle chimes of a research breakthrough to the frantic beeping of an oxygen alarm, the music seamlessly blends into the gameplay experience, enhancing immersion and emotional impact.

Mastering the Art of Duplicity: A Few Tips for Aspiring Colony Leaders:

  • Prioritize Oxygen: It’s the most crucial resource in the early game. Build algae terrariums, explore for geysers, and don’t underestimate the power of a well-placed oxylite refinery.

  • Embrace Automation: Don’t let your duplicants toil endlessly. Utilize conveyor belts, pumps, and automated doors to streamline processes and boost efficiency.

  • Manage Stress Levels: Keep an eye on your duplicant’s mental state. Provide recreational activities, comfortable sleeping quarters, and even therapy sessions to prevent meltdowns.

  • Prepare for the Unexpected: Meteors, infestations, and power outages are just a few of the challenges you’ll face. Build redundant systems and have backup plans in place to weather any storm.

Oxygen Not Included: An Endless Wellspring of Challenge and Creativity

Oxygen Not Included is more than just a game; it’s a constantly evolving playground for experimentation, ingenuity, and resilience. Whether you’re a seasoned strategist or a curious newcomer, prepare to be captivated by its unique blend of humor, challenge, and endlessly replayable gameplay.

So gather your duplicants, embark on your asteroid adventure, and remember – sometimes the funniest moments come from the brink of disaster!