Frequently Asked Questions
The most-asked questions about Oxygen Not Included.
What is Oxygen Not Included?
Oxygen Not Included is a complex colony simulation game where players manage a group of astronauts stranded on an asteroid. The core challenge involves balancing life-support systems, resource extraction, and environmental hazards to ensure the crew survives indefinitely.
Who are the main characters in the game?
The player manages a diverse cast of procedurally generated clones known as Duplicants, each with unique traits and skills that affect their performance. There is no single protagonist; instead, the focus remains on the collective survival and management of this colony.
Where should newcomers start playing?
New players are best served by beginning with the official in-game tutorials or the 'First Steps' guide to learn basic mechanics like gas flow and temperature control. Starting a fresh save without mods is recommended to fully grasp the game's fundamental systems before attempting complex builds.
What makes this game different from other colony sims?
Unlike many competitors, this title features a rigorous physics engine where gases have mass, sink or float based on temperature, and can suffocate colonists if not managed correctly. This creates a unique puzzle-solving experience where environmental engineering is just as critical as resource gathering.
Is the game finished with an ending?
The base game does not have a traditional narrative conclusion but offers a 'Win' condition by reaching the Moon, Mars, or Jupiter missions via rocket launches. However, players can choose to continue playing indefinitely after completing these milestones to perfect their colony.
What are the most critical resources to manage?
Oxygen is the primary immediate need for survival, followed closely by food, water, and temperature regulation. Long-term success depends on efficiently managing power sources like fossil fuels or nuclear reactors alongside waste disposal systems.
Are there mods available for the game?
Yes, the community has created thousands of mods ranging from quality-of-life improvements to entirely new gameplay mechanics and visual overhauls. These are typically managed through the Steam Workshop, allowing players to customize their experience significantly.
What is a notable moment in the game's development history?
The game gained massive popularity after its Early Access launch due to its unique blend of humor and brutal difficulty, leading to frequent updates that added major biomes like the Ice Cave. The developers are known for extensively incorporating community feedback into these large content patches.
How difficult is the learning curve?
The game has a notoriously steep learning curve because understanding fluid dynamics and thermal physics is essential for preventing colony collapse. Patience and experimentation are required, as mistakes often lead to cascading failures that can wipe out the entire population.
Can I play this game on mobile devices?
No, Oxygen Not Included is currently only available for PC platforms including Windows, macOS, and Linux. There are no official plans or ports announced for mobile operating systems like iOS or Android at this time.