RimWorld, the hit colony simulation game, is known for its intricate research system. The research tree, a complex web of technologies, is a vital component of your colony’s success. Understanding how the research tree works and navigating its various paths is crucial for unlocking the potential of your colonists and your colony itself.
This guide will serve as a comprehensive resource to understand the intricacies of the Rimworld Research Tree. We’ll delve into its structure, explore various research paths, and provide valuable tips to optimize your research efforts.
Understanding the RimWorld Research Tree
The RimWorld research tree is a visual representation of all available technologies. Each technology is represented by a unique icon and is unlocked by gathering research points. These research points are earned through crafting, researching, and exploring.
How Research Works in RimWorld
The foundation of RimWorld’s research system lies in research benches. Research benches are structures that allow colonists to dedicate themselves to unlocking new technologies. The speed of research depends on a few factors:
- Research bench quality: Higher-tier research benches, such as the Chem Bench or the Advanced Research Bench, significantly accelerate the research process.
- Colonist skills: Colonists with high Intelligence and Crafting skills contribute more to the research effort.
- Available resources: Research requires materials like components, plasteel, and other valuable resources.
- Research priority: You can prioritize research projects, allowing them to consume research points more quickly.
Navigating the Research Tree: Choosing Your Path
The RimWorld research tree is divided into multiple branches, each representing a specific category of technologies. Some of the key branches include:
- Crafting: This branch focuses on improving your crafting capabilities, unlocking new recipes, and gaining access to advanced tools.
- Medicine: Research in this area unlocks new medical technologies, allowing you to treat more severe injuries and diseases.
- Construction: This branch provides advancements in construction technology, allowing you to build more advanced structures and defenses.
- Energy: Focusing on this branch provides access to power generation and storage options, improving your colony’s energy efficiency and effectiveness.
- Psychology: This branch allows you to better manage the mental well-being of your colonists, unlocking new tools for therapy and emotional regulation.
Research Prioritization: Making the Most of Your Efforts
With so many research options, it’s essential to prioritize your research goals.
Here are some tips for effective research prioritization:
- Immediate Needs: Focus on research that addresses immediate needs like food production, basic medical care, or basic defenses.
- Long-Term Goals: Look ahead and plan for the future. Consider research paths that will benefit your colony in the long run, such as advanced medicine or power generation.
- Specialization: Consider specializing in a specific area, for example, focusing on medicine or construction.
- Colony Needs: Prioritize research that aligns with your colony’s overall strategy. If you are focusing on a military-based approach, prioritize research in weaponry and armor.
The Importance of Research for Colony Success
Research is a crucial aspect of RimWorld gameplay, impacting virtually every aspect of your colony’s development.
Here’s why research is essential:
- Improved Infrastructure: Research unlocks advanced construction materials and building designs, leading to more efficient and resilient structures.
- Enhanced Efficiency: Advanced tools and technologies improve production and efficiency across various sectors, from farming to crafting.
- Increased Defense: Research can unlock powerful weapons, advanced defenses, and new combat strategies to protect your colony from raiders and threats.
- Improved Colonist Care: Research leads to better medical treatments, advanced prosthetics, and improved mental health care, ensuring the well-being of your colonists.
- Technological Advancement: Unlocking new technologies allows you to explore new possibilities and expand your colony’s capabilities, making it more sustainable and prosperous.
FAQ
Q: What are the best research priorities for new players?
A: For beginners, focusing on basic needs like food production (Growing), medicine (Medicine, Basic Medical), and defense (Melee, Shooting, and Crafting) is recommended.
Q: Is it possible to research multiple technologies simultaneously?
A: Yes, RimWorld allows you to research multiple technologies simultaneously. However, each research project requires a specific research bench and the necessary resources.
Q: How do I know which research path to choose?
A: The best path depends on your colony’s needs and your playstyle. Consider your colony’s current situation, your goals, and the resources available to you.
Q: How do I unlock the advanced research benches?
A: Advanced research benches, such as the Chem Bench, can be unlocked through research. They require specific technologies and resources, so ensure you have enough resources to support their construction.
Q: Can I restart research if I change my mind?
A: Unfortunately, once you start a research project, you cannot restart it. It’s important to consider your priorities before committing resources to a specific technology.
Q: What are some of the most powerful technologies in RimWorld?
A: Some of the most powerful technologies in RimWorld include the Advanced Construction (Steel Construction, Construction 2), advanced power generation (Power Generation, Solar Panels), and advanced weaponry (Artillery, Advanced Weapons).
Conclusion
The RimWorld research tree is a complex yet rewarding aspect of the game, offering endless opportunities for development and progress. By understanding the research tree, carefully prioritizing your research, and making strategic decisions, you can guide your colony towards a brighter future filled with prosperity and success. Remember, research is not just about unlocking new technologies; it’s about shaping the future of your RimWorld colony.
This is just a starting point for your research journey in RimWorld! There’s much more to explore and discover in the vast world of technologies. Experiment, learn, and adapt, and you will witness the full potential of your colony blossom.