Early Game Strategies
In the early game, you can basically build next to the life pod safely. Given the reprint system, you can avoid being soft-locked later on (if you are stranded too far from your Tadpole and cannot build another where your sub is). Having a failsafe base as a fallback biobed is useful.
Alternatively, work primarily out of the life raft until you get the processor blueprint and Tadpole blueprint. Then, create a minimalist base directly below the life raft for the processor and a small moonpool. There is a nearby upward current that makes for convenient turbine power.
Recommended Base Locations
1. The Coral Crab Area
- Pros: Nice spot relatively close to an ocean current; can be built early; centrally located for exploring most of the Early Access map.
- Cons: You must pass through the trench for the Collector Leviathan every time you need to go to the late-game area. This is tedious and potentially problematic if using a Hauler chassis, though a Fin chassis makes escape easier.
- Tips: Pick a spot to avoid Hammerheads and Mangos. Transmit power there.
2. The Observatory Area
This is where the game suggests building a base, and for good reason. Besides all the base resources in the area, it is covered in currents and thermal areas with little hostile presence.
- Best Spot: Right off the research outpost going towards the Needler nest. There is a spot with nearby thermal vents, no nearby hostiles, and straight easy paths to all late-game areas without worrying about Leviathans (unless you enter their specific zone).
- Setup: Build on a cliff edge right above the thermal area next to a speed boost rock for fast travel.
- Benefits: Safe, good access to resources and power, and centrally located for the late game.
3. Near Camp One (Marrowbreach Edge)
Build near Camp One, but outside of Marrowbreach's activity range. Nibbler Mangos are still a bit annoying but far more manageable without Marrowbreach. This area feels similar to the West Glassy Plateaus in Subnautica 1.
4. Geothermal Zone Edge
Once you get heat adaptation, set up a real base on the shared edge of the geothermal zone and starting zone.
- Features: Scenic geothermal vents for power; large amounts of salt deposits nearby for food and better water.
- Access: Easy access to the starter zone (highest density of food/water materials) and prime positioning for moving to the second portion of the game past the Collector Leviathan.
Late Game Navigation Tips
While the Collector Leviathan is dangerous and will one-shot you outside your Tadpole, it is relatively easy to avoid.
- Route: When heading east toward the Collector zone, skirt the north side (left if heading east) of the zone until you see the red wall.
- Depth: Stay low (just above 250m crush depth).
- Detection: The Collector has its own epic soundtrack, so you will be aware if it is nearby.
Once you reach the Alien Pillar and the Research Outpost, pick a spot in that area for the second half of the game. There are tons of nearby resources, and the abandoned research base contains an active bio-bed, fabricator, and lockers to help you get started.
General Advice
Always find thermal vents and new ocean currents nearby. Building a base near these comes in handy when you unlock thermal power and hydro capabilities.
