Oxygen Not Included
Indie
Simulation
Single-player
Steam Trading Cards
Family Sharing

Oxygen Not Included is a space-colony simulation game. Deep inside an alien space rock your industrious crew will need to master science, overcome strange new lifeforms, and harness incredible space tech to survive, and possibly, thrive.

Developers: Klei Entertainment
Publishers: Klei Entertainment
Release Date: Jul 30, 2019
Price (USD): $7.49
Current Players: 11k

Links:  Steam Store  SteamDB

Overwhelmingly Positive(96%)
deep systems
rewarding mechanics
addictive replayability
charming art
educational
challenge
DLC content
complexity
steep learning curve
overwhelming complexity
AI issues
tutorial reliance
The reviews indicate a strong appreciation for the game's complexity and depth, with players enjoying the rewarding problem-solving mechanics. However, the steep learning curve poses a barrier to new players who may feel overwhelmed without external guidance. Despite this, many players find the educational elements and high replayability compelling, often drawing them back for numerous playthroughs.

Positive Points

  • The game is praised for its complex and deep systems that challenge the player to think critically and plan effectively.
  • Players love the game's rewarding problem-solving mechanics where every decision matters, making achievements feel earned.
  • The art style and animations add charm and humor to the game, enhancing the player's engagement.
  • There is high replayability due to the procedural generation of maps and varied biomes, ensuring each playthrough offers a unique experience.
  • The game's educational aspect, teaching players about physics, thermodynamics, and resource management, is appreciated by many.
  • Negative Points

  • The learning curve is steep, with many players feeling overwhelmed by the complex systems and lack of in-depth tutorials.
  • Some players are frustrated by the need to rely on external guides or tutorials to understand the game mechanics fully.
  • The game's late stages can become tedious with issues like frame rate drops and overwhelming complexity in managing systems.
  • Certain elements, such as AI pathfinding and duplicant priorities, are seen as unintuitive and sometimes frustrating.
  • Mixed Points

  • The game's challenge is a double-edged sword, enticing players who enjoy complex problem-solving but alienating those seeking a more casual experience.
  • DLC content is valued for adding depth but also criticized for being excessive or necessary for full enjoyment.
  • Common Themes

  • The game's difficulty and steep learning curve are recurring themes, with many players discussing the need for careful learning and frequent restarts.
  • Players frequently mention the rewarding nature of mastering the game's complex system and finally achieving long-term survival.
  • Replayability and addiction are common, as players often find themselves coming back to try different approaches.
  • Many reviews highlight the educational aspect of the game, teaching real-life scientific concepts, which can be both a positive and a barrier to entry.
  • Updated 6/12/2026, 12:01:48 AM UTC