Story

Oxygen Not Included transports players into the depths of an alien asteroid where they are tasked with managing a group of colonists, known as Duplicants. These Duplicants awaken in a subterranean pocket and must work together to survive the harsh environment. The game doesn’t follow a traditional narrative arc with a scripted storyline. Instead, it thrives on emergent storytelling, where each player’s decisions lead to unique narratives and challenges.

The lack of a predefined story allows players to create their own epic tales of survival, triumph, and sometimes, tragic failures. As players progress, they uncover remnants of a bygone civilization, hinting at a deeper lore and backstory about the asteroid and its mysterious origins. This subtle narrative element adds layers of intrigue, prompting players to explore and piece together the history of their new home.

Gameplay

Oxygen Not Included is a complex simulation game that challenges players with the intricacies of managing a fully functional space colony. The primary objective is to ensure the survival of your Duplicants by managing resources, building infrastructure, and maintaining a livable environment within the asteroid.

Resource Management

Resource management is at the core of Oxygen Not Included. Players must constantly monitor and manage essential resources such as oxygen, food, and water. The game simulates intricate systems like gas and liquid dynamics, temperature control, and power management, requiring players to strategically plan and optimize their colony’s layout for efficiency.

• Oxygen: Players must generate and distribute oxygen to keep their Duplicants alive, using machines like the Algae Deoxidizer and Electrolyzer.
• Food: Food production and preservation are crucial for survival, involving farming, ranching, and cooking systems.
• Water: Water is necessary for various colony functions and must be purified and distributed carefully.

Building and Infrastructure

Players must construct a variety of buildings and systems to support their colony. The game offers a wide range of construction options, from basic shelters to advanced research facilities. Each structure serves a specific purpose, contributing to the colony’s overall efficiency and sustainability.

Players can also dig through the asteroid’s terrain to expand their colony, uncovering new resources and space for development. The challenge lies in balancing expansion with the management of environmental hazards, such as toxic gases and extreme temperatures.

Duplicant Management

Duplicants are the backbone of the colony, and managing their needs and abilities is vital for success. Each Duplicant has unique traits and skills, influencing their performance in various tasks. Players must assign jobs, manage stress levels, and ensure the well-being of their Duplicants to maintain a productive colony.

Stress management is particularly critical, as high stress levels can lead to negative behaviors, impacting colony operations. Providing recreational activities, comfortable living conditions, and good food are some ways to keep stress in check.

Graphics and Sound

Oxygen Not Included features a distinctive art style that blends cartoonish visuals with intricate detail. The 2D graphics are vibrant and colorful, providing a clear and appealing interface for players to engage with. The character designs of the Duplicants are charming and full of personality, adding to the game’s overall appeal.

The game’s sound design complements the visual style with an ambient soundtrack that enhances the atmosphere of exploration and survival. The soundtrack is subtle yet effective, providing a soothing backdrop that underscores the tension and stakes of managing a space colony.

Sound effects play a crucial role in gameplay, offering auditory cues for various in-game events, such as the operation of machinery, alerts for resource shortages, and Duplicants’ interactions. This attention to detail ensures players remain immersed in the game’s environment.

Legacy and Reception

Since its release, Oxygen Not Included has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Its deep simulation mechanics and engaging gameplay have been praised for providing a challenging yet rewarding experience. The game’s ability to generate unique stories through player actions has been highlighted as one of its standout features.

Oxygen Not Included has also been recognized for its educational value, teaching players about resource management, environmental systems, and problem-solving. The game’s comprehensive simulation of real-world physics and chemistry concepts makes it a valuable tool for learning and exploration.

The game’s community has expanded over time, with players sharing strategies, mods, and custom content, further enriching the experience. The developers, Klei Entertainment, have continued to support the game with updates and expansions, keeping the content fresh and engaging.

Conclusion

Oxygen Not Included stands as a testament to the potential of simulation games to offer complex, engaging experiences that challenge players’ strategic thinking and creativity. Its unique blend of resource management, emergent storytelling, and charming aesthetics has left a lasting impact on the gaming community.

The game’s legacy lies in its ability to create personalized narratives, where each player’s journey through the asteroid is different from the last. As players continue to delve into its depths, Oxygen Not Included remains a beloved title that continues to inspire, educate, and entertain.