Guide Steps
Location 1: Safe Shallows central
Pros: Maximum safety, abundant limestone and metal salvage, plenty of solar power. Cons: Far from mid-game resources, long travel to deeper biomes. Best for: absolute beginners who want a low-risk crafting hub. Build near a thermal vent for alternate power options.
Location 2: Safe Shallows/Kelp Forest border
Pros: Safety of shallows + access to creepvine, stalker teeth, and sandstone outcrops. Multiple resource types within 100m. Solar power still viable. Cons: Stalkers nearby may be aggressive. Best for: most players — this is the optimal first base location.
Location 3: Kelp Forest edge (near cave entrance)
Pros: Rich in sandstone (silver, gold, lead), direct access to deeper cave systems. Creepvine abundant. Cons: Higher predator density, deeper water limits solar efficiency. Best for: players comfortable with basic threats who need rare materials.
Location 4: Grassy Plateau border
Pros: Open terrain for large bases, access to mid-game resources, good vehicle maneuverability. Cons: Deeper (solar penalty), sand sharks, farther from starter resources. Best for: a second base or forward operating station after you have a Seaglide and upgraded oxygen.
Forward base strategy
Don't build one mega-base. Build one main base at location 1 or 2, then place small forward outposts at deeper biome entrances. Each outpost needs: compartment, hatch, power source, fabricator, locker with emergency supplies. This creates an oxygen and crafting network.