ASTRONEER is a sandbox space exploration and survival game focused on creativity, discovery, and problem-solving. Set in a procedurally generated universe, the game allows players to terraform planets, build bases, and uncover the mysteries hidden beneath alien surfaces. Unlike traditional survival games, ASTRONEER emphasizes experimentation and freedom rather than strict combat systems.

This guide explains how to play ASTRONEER effectively, from your first landing on an unknown planet to building interplanetary infrastructure. Whether you play solo or cooperatively, understanding the game’s systems will help you survive longer, explore deeper, and build more efficient space colonies.

SECTION 1: How to Understand the Core Gameplay Loop

ASTRONEER revolves around exploration, resource collection, research, and expansion. You gather raw materials, process them into useful resources, and use those resources to unlock new tools and technologies.

Progression is open-ended. Instead of following a fixed path, you decide when to explore new planets, expand your base, or focus on research. Understanding this flexible loop allows you to set your own goals and progress at a comfortable pace.

SECTION 2: How to Survive Your First Days on a Planet

Early survival depends on oxygen management and basic shelter. Tethers provide a lifeline of oxygen and power, allowing you to explore safely near your landing zone.

Establishing a small base with a shelter and power source should be your first priority. This creates a safe hub where you can store resources, recharge equipment, and plan future exploration.

SECTION 3: How to Gather and Manage Resources

Resources in ASTRONEER are represented physically and stored in your backpack or containers. Learning which materials are common and which are rare helps prioritize exploration routes.

Avoid hoarding unnecessary materials early on. Focus on gathering essential resources like compound and resin to unlock core structures and tools that enable further expansion.

SECTION 4: How to Build an Efficient Base

Base design affects productivity and ease of use. Platforms, power generators, and research stations should be arranged logically to minimize clutter and confusion.

Leave room for growth. As your base expands, adding new modules becomes easier if you maintain an organized layout from the beginning rather than building randomly.

SECTION 5: How to Generate and Manage Power

Power is the backbone of every base. Solar panels, wind turbines, and generators provide energy under different conditions. Balancing power sources ensures consistent operation.

Batteries store excess energy and stabilize your network. Investing in power storage prevents sudden shutdowns and keeps critical systems running smoothly.

SECTION 6: How to Research and Unlock New Technology

Research drives progression in ASTRONEER. Discovering and scanning research objects unlocks new blueprints that expand your capabilities.

Prioritize technologies that improve mobility, storage, and power efficiency. These upgrades increase productivity and reduce the risk associated with long-distance exploration.

SECTION 7: How to Explore Caves and Dangerous Terrain

Caves offer rare resources but introduce hazards such as low visibility and hostile flora. Proper preparation reduces risk and improves survival chances.

Bring extra tethers, power sources, and storage when exploring underground. Controlled exploration prevents disorientation and resource loss in dangerous environments.

SECTION 8: How to Use Vehicles for Exploration and Transport

Vehicles significantly increase mobility and carrying capacity. Rovers allow you to travel long distances while transporting large quantities of resources.

Building vehicle bays and customizing rovers with storage and power modules turns exploration into an efficient, low-risk activity rather than a slow manual process.

SECTION 9: How to Travel Between Planets

Interplanetary travel expands access to unique resources and research opportunities. Building a shuttle and preparing fuel enables exploration beyond your starting planet.

Each planet presents different challenges, from gravity variations to environmental hazards. Studying conditions before landing helps you prepare appropriately.

SECTION 10: How to Achieve Long-Term Progress and Creativity

Long-term success in ASTRONEER comes from creativity and experimentation. Designing efficient systems and experimenting with automation enhances both functionality and enjoyment.

The game encourages players to create their own solutions. Embracing trial and error leads to unique bases and a deeper understanding of the universe.

CONCLUSION

ASTRONEER is a game about curiosity, resilience, and imagination. By mastering survival basics, resource management, base building, and interplanetary travel, you can transform alien worlds into thriving outposts. Success lies not in speed or combat prowess, but in thoughtful exploration and creative problem-solving across the stars.