Oxygen Not Included is a popular space-colony simulation game created by Klei Entertainment. In this game, players manage a group of space colonists called “Duplicants” who live inside an underground asteroid. The main goal is survival. Players must build, dig, and manage resources like food, water, and especially oxygen to keep the Duplicants alive.
This game is known for its mix of fun, challenge, and science. It is not just about building rooms but also about managing gases, temperature, electricity, and stress levels of the Duplicants. Every choice you make can decide if your colony survives or fails.
Why Oxygen is Important in the Game
The name of the game itself shows that oxygen is the most critical resource. Without oxygen, Duplicants cannot breathe, and they will quickly die. Players must learn how to create and spread oxygen in their base. At the same time, they must manage harmful gases like carbon dioxide, chlorine, and hydrogen.
There are different machines and plants that help produce oxygen, but they also use power and resources. This is why planning is key. A small mistake in oxygen supply can ruin the whole colony.
Main Features of Oxygen Not Included
1. Colony Management
Players need to take care of their Duplicants by giving them food, water, oxygen, and safe living spaces. Each Duplicant has unique skills and traits, so choosing the right task for them is important.
2. Resource Control
Managing resources is the heart of the game. You need to balance electricity, gas, heat, and water. If you waste resources, your base will not last long.
3. Science and Research
Research allows you to unlock new machines and technologies. For example, you can research advanced oxygen machines, power systems, and farming methods.
4. Survival Challenges
Players face different challenges such as overheating, gas leaks, food shortage, or stress. You must solve these problems quickly, or your colony may collapse.
5. Endless Exploration
Every map is randomly generated. This means every new game feels different. You can dig deeper into the asteroid to find rare resources and secrets.
Tips for Beginners
1. Focus on Oxygen First
The first priority should be oxygen production. Start with basic oxygen diffusers, then move toward more advanced systems.
2. Control Carbon Dioxide
Carbon dioxide sinks to the bottom of the base. Build areas where Duplicants do not spend much time at the bottom, or use it for special farming.
3. Save Energy
Do not build too many machines in the beginning. Focus on essential ones like food production, oxygen, and research.
4. Manage Food Supply
Without food, your Duplicants will starve. Farm plants like Mealwood in the early game. Later, switch to better food like Bristle Blossoms.
5. Research Smartly
Always research what you need next. If your oxygen is running low, research better air systems. If your power is weak, research energy tech.
Why Players Love Oxygen Not Included
Players love this game because it mixes fun, science, and creativity. It feels like solving a puzzle where you must think about every detail. Unlike simple survival games, Oxygen Not Included gives you real scientific challenges such as gas pressure, temperature, and electricity flow.
It also gives freedom. You can design your colony in many different ways. Some players make super-efficient factories, while others focus on creative bases. The balance of survival and creativity makes it unique.
Oxygen Not Included vs Other Survival Games
Unlike many survival games that focus on fighting enemies, Oxygen Not Included is about smart planning. There are no aliens or monsters to fight, but the real enemy is nature itself. Gas, heat, and hunger are the main threats. This makes it more about thinking and less about combat.
Other games may give fast action, but Oxygen Not Included gives deep strategy. It rewards patience and careful planning.
FAQs
Q1: What is Oxygen Not Included?
It is a space-colony survival game where players manage Duplicants inside an asteroid. The main goal is to survive by controlling oxygen, food, and resources.
Q2: Is Oxygen Not Included difficult?
Yes, the game can be challenging at first. But with practice and planning, players can learn how to manage resources and grow their colony.
Q3: Can you play Oxygen Not Included offline?
Yes, it is a single-player game, and you can play it offline without an internet connection.
Q4: Is the game good for kids?
The game is safe for kids as there is no violence. However, it is complex and may be better for older children or teenagers who enjoy science and strategy.
Q5: How long does a game last?
There is no fixed end. A game can last for many hours, even hundreds, depending on how long you can keep your colony alive.
Q6: What platforms is it available on?
Oxygen Not Included is available on PC, macOS, and Linux. Currently, it is not on consoles like PlayStation or Xbox.
Conclusion
Oxygen Not Included is more than just a game—it is a smart test of survival and management. From producing oxygen to balancing energy and food, every choice matters. Beginners may find it difficult at first, but with patience, it becomes a highly rewarding experience.