Spoiler Warning
This guide contains story progression information. If you want to discover everything yourself, only read the section you're currently stuck on.
Act 1: Survival (Hours 0-5)
TL;DR
Quick Summary
- Act 1: Survival (Hours 0-5)
- Act 2: Investigation (Hours 5-15)
- Act 3: Deep Exploration (Hours 15-30)
- Act 4: The Truth (Hours 30+)
- Radio Signals Guide
- Story Progression Tips
- Missable Content
Objectives
- Escape the lifepod and establish basic survival
- Craft essential tools (Scanner, Knife, O2 Tank)
- Follow the Welcome Center beacon
Key Locations
| Location | Coordinates | What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Lifepod 5 | Start | Gather starting resources |
| Welcome Center | Near lifepod | Scan technology, get supplies |
Preparation Checklist
- Scanner, Survival Knife, Standard O2 Tank
- Fins, Flashlight
- Small base with fabricator
Act 2: Investigation (Hours 5-15)
Objectives
- Investigate the crashed ship / distress signals
- Build a vehicle for deeper exploration
- Find and scan technology fragments
Key Locations
| Location | Depth | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Wrecks (various) | 50-200m | Scanner, Seaglide |
| Abandoned Bases | 100-300m | Tadpole recommended |
| Alien Structures | 200m+ | Tadpole with Depth MK1 |
Pro Tip
Prioritize finding Mobile Vehicle Bay fragments and Tadpole fragments. Having a vehicle opens up the entire map.
Act 3: Deep Exploration (Hours 15-30)
Objectives
- Upgrade Tadpole with depth modules
- Explore deep biomes and alien facilities
- Discover the true nature of Proteus
Key Locations
| Location | Depth | Vehicle Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Deep Alien Facilities | 300-500m | Tadpole MK-II |
| Crystal Caves | 400-600m | Tadpole MK-II + Defense |
| Lava Castle | 600-900m | Prawn Suit recommended |
Required Upgrades
- Tadpole Depth Module MK2 (500m)
- Perimeter Defense System
- Sonar for navigation
- High Capacity O2 Tank
Act 4: The Truth (Hours 30+)
Objectives
- Access the primary alien facility
- Resolve the central mystery
- Make your final choices
Key Locations
| Location | Depth | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Containment | 900m+ | Endgame location |
| Lava Lakes | 1000m+ | Extreme heat, Sea Dragons |
Endgame Preparation
Before entering the final areas, ensure you have: Prawn Suit with grapple arm, reinforced dive suit, ample food/water, repair tools, and spare power cells.
Radio Signals Guide
Radio signals guide you to important locations. Check your PDA regularly:
| Signal | Location Hint | What You'll Find |
|---|---|---|
| Distress Call | Lifepod nearby | Supplies, story info |
| Unknown Signal | Varies | Wrecks, bases |
| Emergency Beacon | Deep locations | Story progression |
Story Progression Tips
- Always scan: New blueprints often unlock story progression.
- Check PDA logs: They contain coordinates and clues.
- Follow beacons: Place beacons at discovered locations.
- Build forward bases: Small outposts near deep areas save time.
- Upgrade incrementally: Don't rush to the deepest areas unprepared.
Missable Content
Some story elements are easy to miss:
- Data terminals in abandoned bases
- Alien artifact scans
- Specific creature scans
- Environmental storytelling elements
Pro Tip
Thoroughly explore each story location before moving on. Many players miss critical context by rushing through areas.