The latest RimWorld expansion pack, Odyssey, has introduced an exciting new feature that enables gamers to construct their own ships known as Gravships. These vessels allow players to traverse the game’s map and discover previously unreachable biomes and locations, including the planet’s orbit, enhancing the gameplay experience significantly.

While players can start off with a Gravship in the new scenario included in the Odyssey DLC, they also have the option to construct one at a later stage, offering every colony the chance to utilize this vehicle. For those unsure of how to create a Gravship in RimWorld or the optimal timing for doing so, this guide provides comprehensive instructions to get started.

How to Acquire a Gravship in RimWorld

The simplest way to secure a Gravship in RimWorld is through the new scenario introduced in the Odyssey DLC, titled The Gravship. This scenario equips players with technology and resources, while also throwing them into action against various mechanoids. For those new to the game, this challenging start can add significant difficulty in the early hours of gameplay.

This scenario allows players to immediately engage with the features added by the RimWorld DLC, without the need for extensive preparations or constructing a Gravship from the ground up, which can be a time-consuming endeavor. Thus, it provides an intriguing alternative while increasing the challenge, especially since mechanoids are formidable foes.

How to Construct a Gravship in RimWorld

Players interested in assembling a Gravship from scratch using the resources available within their initial colony can certainly do so with the Odyssey DLC. After a few in-game days, once the colonists are settled, a new quest, Mechanoid Signal, will emerge. Accepting this quest marks the initial step in building a Gravship for the colony.

Upon acceptance, the Grav Engine, a vital element for the ship’s construction, will appear on the map, accompanied by mechanoid troops, scrap materials, and essential items like Gravlite Panels. Securing this site is crucial, so players should send a pawn to investigate the Grav Engine to progress to the next stage.

After interacting with the engine, a new research option will be available at the Research Table: Basic Gravitech. This research is essential for unlocking the key components needed to build a Gravship but does require prior access to electricity technology, which might not be available based on the chosen starting scenario. If necessary, players will need to unlock this technology first.

Completing the Basic Gravitech research will grant access to the following necessary items for a functioning Gravship:

• Grav Anchor
• Grav Field Extender
• Gravship Hull
• Pilot Console
• Small Chemfuel Tank
• Small Thruster

While RimWorld: Odyssey introduces a variety of new components and materials, only a few are essential for launching a Gravship: the Thruster, Fuel Tank, and Pilot Console. After finishing the Basic Gravitech research, players can start building the ship by placing Gravship Substructure tiles, which act as the foundation for other structures. Each tile requires 1x Gravlite Panel and 4x Steel, so careful resource management is vital.

Although it’s not a requirement for takeoff, researching Biofuel Refining is highly recommended. The Fuel Tank operates using Chemfuel, and one of the most effective methods of producing it involves refining raw materials like wood or plants, accessible in numerous biomes across the colony map.

Once the Thruster, Fuel Tank, Pilot Console, and Substructure are positioned around the Grav Engine, players can interact with the console to launch the ship. Initially, due to limited fuel capacity, the ship can only travel a few hexes per journey. However, this mobility is particularly beneficial for colonies aiming for a nomadic lifestyle, opening up new pathways for exploration, resource collection, and establishing temporary bases across the world map.

How to Obtain Gravlite Panels in RimWorld

Gravlite Panels are arguably one of the most crucial resources introduced in RimWorld: Odyssey, especially for players aiming to construct their own Gravships. These specialized floor tiles are essential for expanding the ship’s structure, and without them, early travel is limited, necessitating effective space management during initial flights.

Fortunately, these resources can be acquired through colony quests. After accepting the Mechanoid Signal quest, Gravlite Panels will frequently appear as rewards for various quest events. This provides a steady, although somewhat restricted, supply to help expand the ship without solely relying on research. Additionally, players can craft Gravlite Panels, but this requires unlocking Advanced Grav Tech, a late-game research that necessitates significant time and effort. Because of this, prioritizing quest completion is generally the most efficient method for acquiring Gravlite Panels during the early and mid-game stages.

When is the Right Time to Build a Gravship in RimWorld?

Determining the ideal moment to construct a Gravship in RimWorld: Odyssey can vary greatly. Although the Mechanoid Signal quest becomes available fairly early on, it doesn’t have to be completed immediately. Even if the ship’s construction doesn’t demand an excessive amount of materials, the unpredictable nature of the game means solid stockpiles, especially of Steel, are essential before embarking on the project.

In the early game, space for building is also at a premium. A strategic approach for players wishing to build a Gravship is to first unlock Complex Furniture, allowing for the creation of Shelves. These can help organize stockpiles more effectively aboard the ship, freeing up vital space for essential utilities such as beds or workstations.

Another consideration is the intended use of the ship. If the colony plans to adopt a nomadic lifestyle with a focus on ground travel, oxygen and vacuum gear may not be critical. However, if exploring space or visiting orbital locations is the aim, then pawns will require Vacsuits and Vacsuit Helmets for survival. Furthermore, it becomes crucial to install Gravship Walls, Barriers, and Oxygen Pumps to ensure breathable conditions in areas with low oxygen levels.