Guide Steps
Step 1: Orient yourself in the Safe Shallows
Start in the escape pod area. Look for the shallow, well-lit biome with low predator density. This is your first resource loop. Memorize landmarks — rock formations, coral clusters, wreckage silhouettes — so you can navigate without beacons early on. Collect titanium from metal salvage and copper from limestone outcrops.
Step 2: Craft basic tools immediately
Your first crafting priority is the Scanner (1 titanium + 1 battery). The scanner unlocks every blueprint in the game. Next craft a Survival Knife (1 titanium + 1 silicone rubber) for defense and sample collection. Then get Fins and an Air Tank to extend your dive time.
Step 3: Scan fragments aggressively
Fragments are scattered across the Safe Shallows and adjacent Kelp Forest. Scan every fragment you see — especially Seaglide, Mobile Vehicle Bay, and Habitat Builder fragments. Each scanned fragment progresses you toward a full blueprint. The Seaglide is one of the earliest mobility upgrades and dramatically changes exploration speed.
Step 4: Establish a first base
Once you have the Habitat Builder (scan fragments near wrecks), build a small base. Start with a single compartment, a hatch, a solar panel, a fabricator, and a locker. This gives you a safe oxygen refill point and crafting station independent of the escape pod. Build near the edge of Safe Shallows where it borders a resource-rich biome.
Step 5: Expand with purpose
After your base has power and storage, focus on upgrading your oxygen capacity and getting the Rebreather. Then target the Standard Air Tank and Seaglide for deeper exploration. Each upgrade should unlock a new depth band or biome. Don't build extra base rooms until you have a specific need — storage, power, vehicle docking.