Oxygen Not Included

A Space Colony Survival and Strategy Game

Survival in the Final Frontier

Oxygen Not Included is an intricate and engaging space-colony simulation game that challenges players to not only survive but to thrive in an unforgiving extraterrestrial environment. Developed by Klei Entertainment, this title tasks gamers with managing a group of colonists who have been stranded in an asteroid's interior. The goal? Create a self-sustaining habitat that addresses all of the basic human needs, from oxygen to entertainment.

Resource Management and Strategy

At the core of Oxygen Not Included is a complex resource management system that requires careful planning and foresight. Players must meticulously monitor their colonists' needs, gathering and allocating resources such as water, food, and most crucially, oxygen. Environmental factors, like temperature regulation, also come into play, necessitating a strategic approach to base-building. Understanding the intricate interplay between various resources and the colonists’ needs is key to success, and due to its complexity, this game may appeal especially to those with a penchant for micromanagement and long-term planning.

Psychological Nuances

Beyond the physical needs, maintaining the mental wellbeing of the colonists is another layer of complexity. Stress management becomes a critical aspect of this simulation, as psychologically frail colonists can hinder progress and even lead to mayhem. Ensuring that the environment remains conducive to mental health involves creating recreational facilities and striking a work-life balance for your miniature space dwellers.

Building a Base from Scratch

The base-building mechanics in Oxygen Not Included are both rewarding and intricate. You’ll decide where to dig, how to allocate living and agricultural spaces, and figure out how to sustainably manage waste and power. Every action has implications, and sustainability is the ultimate objective. The procedural generation of the game world ensures that each playthrough poses unique challenges and opportunities, greatly enhancing its replay value.

Gothic Cartoon Aesthetics

Visually, the game features the same gothic-chibi aesthetic for which Klei Entertainment is known, giving life to the characters with a charming sense of gloom balanced by endearing animation. The graphic design may be reminiscent of a gothic fantasy, but it contrasts delightfully with the future-themed soundtrack and sound effects, which altogether achieve a harmonious blend that's both eerie and captivating.

Steep but Satisfying Learning Curve

While Oxygen Not Included delivers an immersive and complex experience, it does come with a steep learning curve. New players can be overwhelmed by the deep systems and the lack of in-game guidance. However, for those who relish a challenge and enjoy mastering sophisticated game mechanics, the experience is highly rewarding. Every problem solved and every crisis averted feels like a significant accomplishment, thanks in part to the unpredictability of each new world.

Pros

• Deep and challenging survival mechanics
• Engaging base-building gameplay
• Procedural generation ensures every playthrough is unique
• Appealing gothic cartoon aesthetics
• Complex resource management offers a rewarding experience

Cons

• Steep learning curve can be intimidating for new players
• Lack of in-depth tutorials or guidance for beginners
• Can be overwhelming due to the complexity of systems

Oxygen Not Included is a testament to Klei Entertainment's ability to craft games that are both intellectually stimulating and aesthetically attractive, catering to those who love to sink their teeth into a robust simulation with plenty of room for strategic creativity.