Prepare to embark on an interstellar journey unlike any other in Oxygen Not Included (ONI), a space-colony simulation game that blends complex resource management with a delightful dose of slapstick humor. Developed by Klei Entertainment, the minds behind indie classics like Don’t Starve and Mark of the Ninja, ONI throws you into the role of a colony manager tasked with keeping a ragtag bunch of duplicants (clones) alive in a harsh, subterranean asteroid biome.
The game’s premise is deceptively simple: provide your duplicants with breathable oxygen, food, water, and comfortable living conditions while expanding their underground base. However, the execution is anything but straightforward. ONI demands meticulous planning, constant optimization, and a willingness to embrace creative solutions (and sometimes, utter chaos).
Let’s dive deeper into the captivating world of Oxygen Not Included:
A Story Forged in Resourcefulness
ONI doesn’t boast a conventional narrative driven by cutscenes or dialogue. Instead, the story unfolds organically through your interactions with the environment and the quirky personalities of your duplicants. Each duplicant arrives with unique traits – some are strong, others are agile, while some might be prone to bouts of existential despair (yes, you read that right).
As you guide them through their subterranean existence, you’ll encounter unexpected challenges: polluted air pockets threatening their oxygen supply, rogue meteors crashing into your base, or even the occasional duplicant spontaneously combusting due to an ill-conceived experiment. The humor lies in these absurdities, often turning disastrous situations into hilarious anecdotes.
Engineering Marvels and Micromanagement Mastery
ONI’s core gameplay revolves around meticulously managing resources and constructing elaborate infrastructure. You start with a rudimentary base equipped with basic oxygen generators and farming plots. Your task is to expand this initial foothold into a thriving colony capable of sustaining hundreds of duplicants. This involves:
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Oxygen Production: The lifeblood of your colony, oxygen can be extracted from polluted water, harvested through Algae Terrariums, or even generated via complex Electrolyzers that split water molecules.
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Food and Water Supply: Mealwood farms are the initial source of sustenance, but you’ll soon need to diversify into more sophisticated food production methods like Ranching (raising critters for meat), and elaborate kitchens for preparing gourmet meals.
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Waste Management: Duplicants produce a lot of…waste. You’ll need to devise efficient sewage systems and recycling mechanisms to prevent disease outbreaks and maintain hygiene.
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Temperature Control: The asteroid’s environment fluctuates dramatically, requiring you to manage temperature within your base using heaters, coolers, and cleverly designed airlocks.
The Art of Duplicant Management
Your duplicants are not mindless drones; they possess individual personalities, needs, and even quirks. Managing their morale and assigning tasks strategically is crucial for colony success. You can prioritize certain skills like mining, construction, or research by training your duplicants in dedicated facilities.
But beware! Neglecting their needs can lead to stress, anxiety, and even mutiny. A well-fed, comfortable duplicant with access to entertainment (like watching Duplicants play games) will be more productive than one who’s perpetually hungry and exhausted.
Unlocking the Tech Tree: The Path to Prosperity
As your colony grows, you’ll unlock new technologies through research. These advancements open doors to exciting possibilities:
Technology Category | Examples | Benefits |
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Resource Processing | Advanced Oil Refineries, Coal Generators | More efficient energy production and resource utilization |
Food Production | Automated Mealwood Farms, Hydroponic Gardens, Meat Rations | Increased food output and variety |
Construction & Automation | Conveyors, Pipes, Robotic Arms | Streamlined transportation of resources and automated tasks |
Exploration & Expansion | Space Exploration Rockets, Deep Drilling rigs | Allows you to venture beyond your initial asteroid and discover new resources |
The Tech Tree is a driving force in ONI, constantly pushing you towards innovation and expansion.
Embracing the Sandbox Nature of ONI:
Oxygen Not Included is more than just a game; it’s a playground for creative problem-solving. The game encourages experimentation and allows players to forge their own paths to success. Whether you prioritize resource efficiency, aesthetic base design, or pushing the boundaries of exploration, ONI offers limitless possibilities.
Prepare for unexpected challenges, laugh at your duplicants’ antics, and celebrate every milestone as your colony thrives amidst the unforgiving void. ONI is a truly unique experience that will test your strategic thinking, ingenuity, and patience (lots of patience!).