Oxygen Not Included

Challenging space colony simulation with deep resource management

Engaging Colony Survival in Deep Space

Oxygen Not Included offers a complex and captivating blend of colony management and survival simulation set in an underground asteroid. Developed by Klei Entertainment, the game tasks players with overseeing a group of resourceful colonists—known as duplicants—stranded in a hostile, airless environment. The primary goal is to keep these duplicants alive by maintaining essential systems such as oxygen supply, food production, temperature control, and sanitation, all while exploring the depths of the asteroid for resources and secrets.

Intricate Resource and Base Management

At the heart of Oxygen Not Included is its demanding resource management. Players must oversee the mining of raw materials, harnessing of gases, and cultivation of crops to sustain the duplicants. Every decision affects the tightly interwoven systems powering the base. Air quality, water purity, waste disposal, power generation, and even plumbing require close attention. Efficient piping, ventilation layouts, and automation can mean the difference between thriving and disaster.

The base-building element is enriched by a detailed simulation of physics and chemistry. Gases and liquids behave according to real principles, so players must swiftly adapt strategies as new challenges—such as carbon dioxide buildup or heat spikes—arise.

Distinctive Visuals and Atmosphere

The game exhibits a hand-drawn 2D art style with expressive animations and whimsical character designs, fostering a unique charm despite the somber premise. The muted color palette amplifies the underground, sci-fi atmosphere, but the duplicants’ comical reactions soften the mood, creating an engaging vibe. Sound design pulls players into colony life with a futuristic score and thoughtful environmental audio cues.

Rich Systems and High Challenge

Oxygen Not Included leans into depth and replayability. Procedurally generated asteroids ensure each playthrough presents new terrain and resource distributions. Players face escalating stressors: food shortages, heat waves, toxic gases, and duplicant stress management. New technologies unlock advanced automation and environmental controls, rewarding experimentation and long-term planning.

The learning curve can be steep, and the vast array of interconnected mechanics may seem overwhelming to newcomers. However, the clear feedback systems and clever tutorials help demystify core concepts, and persistent improvements encourage perseverance. Experienced players can customize their experience with difficulty modifiers and mod support, broadening the game’s appeal.

Long-Term Appeal and Community

Regular updates and a passionate community have resulted in ongoing balances, new content, and a wealth of mods, further boosting replay value. Creative players share intricate base designs and automation blueprints, inspiring others to push the boundaries of what’s possible within the game’s robust simulation.