Onion Planets is a simulation game centered on cooperative mining and industrial development across layered planetary surfaces. Players cut into procedurally simulated terrain to extract resources, construct automated systems, and manage threats while shipping valuable cargo offworld. The core loop revolves around resource extraction, logistics networks, and defensive preparations that scale with the size of each shipment.
Gameplay
The ground in Onion Planets consists of layered tiles that respond realistically to mining tools. Lasers and drills remove material, causing each excavated tile to drop as a physical boulder. These boulders can be processed further into gravel, from which valuable materials are extracted. Loose material flows into excavated holes and natural caves, creating dynamic terrain changes that affect movement and construction.
Logistics form the backbone of operations. Belts transport items across distances, pipes handle liquids, and containers store outputs. Cranes lift heavy loads, while drilling rigs assembled from component parts accelerate deeper excavation. Processing equipment such as crushers, extractors, and smelters refine raw inputs into higher-value cargo ready for export.
Wildlife adds another layer of interaction. Critters and unusual plants populate each planet. Players can trap animals in cages and harvest flora, then load these specimens onto trader ships. Successful shipments generate research points that unlock new printable components and upgrades.
Game Modes
The game supports solo play for those who prefer to manage every aspect of mining, building, and defense independently. Online co-op allows up to several friends to divide tasks across the same planetary site. One participant might operate a drilling rig while another maintains perimeter defenses, and additional players can focus on logistics or resource processing. All participants share the same simulated environment, so actions by one player directly influence the experience of others.
Building an Industrial Operation
Construction begins with basic mining equipment and expands into complex factories. Belts and pipes must be routed efficiently to avoid bottlenecks, while cranes and rigs require careful placement to maximize throughput. The simulated physics means misplaced structures can be buried by falling material or disrupted by creature swarms. Players learn to balance expansion speed against the growing risk that accompanies larger shipments.
Defending Shipments and Research
Each completed cargo load triggers a response from local creatures. Larger shipments draw bigger swarms, requiring walls and automated turrets to protect the operation. Research from shipped wildlife and plants provides new tools that improve mining speed, defensive capabilities, or processing efficiency. This creates a progression loop where successful exports fund better equipment for future expeditions.
Is It Worth Playing?
Onion Planets suits players who enjoy detailed resource management, factory-building mechanics, and cooperative problem solving in a simulation framework. The combination of terrain simulation, logistics puzzles, and escalating defense challenges offers consistent depth for both solo sessions and group play. Those drawn to games that reward careful planning and iterative improvement will find the systems rewarding, while the co-op focus makes it particularly engaging for friends who like to split responsibilities during extended sessions. The absence of confirmed large-scale updates or seasonal content means the experience remains focused on the core mining and defense loop described in the design.