🐾 Review: Oxygen Not Included Video
Played on: [Steam/PC] · Release: [2019] · Designer/Studio: [Klei] · Time: [⏱ 60m] · Players: [1] · Store Link : Oxygen Not Included
TL;DR: A deep and demanding colony sim that will have you juggling oxygen, heat and plumbing like a very determined space dog trying not to chew through the air supply.
Would I play this instead of tidying the kitchen? [Absolutely / Maybe / Ruff choice].
What is it?
Oxygen Not Included is a space colony simulation game where you guide a group of Duplicants as they dig through an asteroid, build living spaces and maintain essential systems such as air, food, water and power. It focuses on interconnected systems and long term planning.
How it Plays
You start with a small pocket of breathable air and a few basic tools. From there you dig tunnels, set up oxygen machines, manage food production and build plumbing and electrical grids. Every choice affects the colony because gases mix, heat spreads and waste needs to be handled properly. Careful design is important because a single mistake can trigger chain reactions that threaten survival.
Overall: 7/10 🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾
| Metric | Rating | Notes (Video) |
|---|---|---|
| Tail-Wag Fun 🐾 | 🐾🐾🐾🐾☆ | Very enjoyable, especially when your systems finally work smoothly. |
| Fetch-Depth 🎾 | 🐾🐾🐾🐾🐾 | Lots of interconnected systems, mechanics and layers upon layers. |
| Belly-Rub Accessibility ❤️ | 🐾🐾🐾☆☆ | Simple to start but difficult to master. Tutorial could be better. |
| Drool-Worthy Presentation 💧 | 🐾🐾🐾🐾☆ | Very nice, pixel art, clear visuals and prompts. |
| Zoomies & Flow 💨 | 🐾🐾🐾☆☆ | A mixed bag, it can be very hectic at first, and when a mistake is made! |
| Treat Value 🍪 | 🐾🐾🐾🐾☆ | Excellent, with huge replay potential and long campaigns. |
Good Doggo (Pros)
- Very rich simulation with systems that interact in interesting ways.
- Satisfying progression as you refine and improve your base layout.
- Charming art style and humorous Duplicant behaviour.
Ruff Spots (Cons)
- Steep learning curve that may overwhelm new players.
- Large colonies require heavy micro management.
- Late game can feel stressful if early planning was weak.
Verdict
Oxygen Not Included is a rewarding and highly detailed colony builder that shines when you embrace problem solving and long form planning. It asks a lot from the player, but it gives back a sense of accomplishment that few other management games can match.
Recommendation Tier : 🐾🐾 – Patchy
Legend: 0 🐾 Ruff · 1–2 🐾 Patchy · 3 🐾 Solid Sit · 4 🐾 Good Doggo · 5 🐾 Chef’s Kiss
