Unveiling the Mystery of Procedural Wrecks

Discover the hidden treasures and challenges within the procedural wrecks of The Planet Crafter.
Unveiling the Mystery of Procedural Wrecks

Highlights

  • Learn how to unlock and build the essential Portal Generator
  • Master the art of using the Portal Generator to navigate distant wrecks
  • Uncover valuable tips for exploring procedural wrecks efficiently

The latest game-changing update just before the official 1.0 release of The Planet Crafter introduced players to the fascinating world of "Procedural Wrecks." This update revolutionizes gameplay by allowing adventurers to explore an infinite number of shipwrecks scattered across the vast expanse of The Planet Crafter.

The introduction of this feature means that players now have unrestricted access to a plethora of resources that were previously limited to the main wrecks area. From microchips and Terra Token chips to tree seeds and beyond, the possibilities are endless. Moreover, these wrecks hold unique resources that cannot be found anywhere else on the standard map. The first step towards unlocking these treasures in The Planet Crafter is constructing a portal generator. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to achieve this.

Unveiling the Portal Generator: Build Your Key to Exploration

To embark on the journey of building a Portal Generator, players must attain a Terraformation Index of 250 GTi. This milestone signifies that the Portal Generator becomes accessible around one-third into the transition between the Fish and Amphibian stages of terraformation. Additionally, the following materials are required for construction:

  • 2 Fusion Energy Cells
  • 2 Energy Multiplier Fuses
  • 2 Circuit Boards
  • 1 Microchip - Compass
  • 2 Super Alloy Rods

Acquiring the Energy Multiplier Fuse may pose a challenge at this stage, as it is notably rarer compared to the Fusion Energy Cell and Pulsar Quartz. In such cases, players may need to resort to purchasing these fuses from the Space Trader at a cost of 6,000 Terra Tokens each. It is advisable to set aside sufficient tokens for this purpose, as the returns from exploring distant wrecks far outweigh the initial investment. Failure to procure these fuses may necessitate constructing a large drone-automated outpost to generate the required Terra Tokens. Alternatively, players can sell surplus fuse types to accumulate the necessary tokens, leveraging the abundance of fuses found within the procedural wrecks.

Navigating the Portal Generator: A Gateway to Exploration

Once the Portal Generator is operational, players can engage with the interface adjacent to the portal to activate the "Long Range Wrecks Detector." This feature displays crucial information such as the location's ID number (procedural seed), required materials, Rarity rating, and Difficulty rating.

The demanded materials predominantly consist of various quartz types, including Pulsar, Solar, Quasar, Magnetar, and Blazar. These resources can be sourced from the Rainbow Caves to the north (post ice thaw) or from crates accessible after progressing to the Fish stage. The quantity and rarity of quartz needed are contingent on the Rarity and Difficulty metrics of the target location. Lower-Rarity sites typically necessitate Pulsar Quartz exclusively, enabling players to explore such locations to secure alternative quartz varieties.

The Rarity value denotes the caliber of items within the wrecks, with higher ratings indicating superior items like premium fuses, exclusive seeds and eggs, and Solar Quartz. On the other hand, Difficulty signifies the complexity of wreck interiors, with elevated ratings corresponding to larger and more intricate wrecks that pose navigation challenges. Optimal locations exhibit high Rarity and low Difficulty attributes, ensuring a rewarding and manageable exploration experience.

The Wrecks Detector showcases three locations at a time, offering players the flexibility to rescan for alternate options by simply selecting the "Scan for distant wrecks" button. This functionality allows unlimited attempts without penalties, empowering players to identify preferred locations effortlessly.

Accessing Locked Treasures: Deciphering Access Cards and Sealed Chambers

Every wreck features a secured entrance leading to a series of safes containing valuable items. While Fusion Energy Cells are indispensable for unlocking doors in the primary map, procedural wrecks require players to amass one, two, or three Access Cards for entry.

  • Access Cards are exclusively obtainable within procedural wrecks, concealed in petite blue crates reminiscent of those housing microchips in main map wrecks.
  • These cards are interchangeable, enabling players to utilize cards from one wreck to access chambers in distinct wrecks. Notably, each wreck furnishes surplus Access Cards beyond the requisite amount for unlocking its sealed compartment.
  • Players can transport up to three Access Cards when venturing into a new wreck, although this step is optional and primarily serves to expedite access to locked spaces.
  • Given their singular purpose, any surplus Access Cards can be abandoned or processed through a Shredder Machine for disposal.

Mastering Procedural Wrecks: Insider Tips for Successful Exploration

  • With the conclusion of the Breathable Atmosphere phase, concerns about air supply are alleviated within procedural wrecks. However, navigating even a low-Difficulty wreck demands time investment, necessitating players to maintain full health and carry at least one water bottle. It is advisable to bring your own supplies, as water bottles are not typically found within wrecks.
  • Construction activities are restricted within procedural zones, prohibiting the creation of storage lockers. Players must strategize their inventory management and item selection accordingly.
  • In situations of critical health depletion, players can utilize the map function (M on keyboard, Back on controller) to access the portal interface. Opting to "Close Portal" transports players back to the Portal Generator, albeit at the cost of forfeiting all items collected during the procedural excursion. Subsequently, a new portal activation is required for further exploration.
  • The portal remains accessible until manually closed, enabling players to embark on multiple expeditions as desired.
  • Procedural areas may encompass surface crates and multiple wrecks, necessitating thorough exploration to maximize item acquisition.
  • Flares are prevalent loot in procedural zones and can be utilized to mark paths through wrecks, guide towards locked chambers, outline escape routes, or denote explored passages. Players can customize flare colors to assign distinct meanings for efficient navigation.
  • Prompt utilization of Terra Token chips upon discovery is recommended, eliminating the need to return to base for redemption.
  • Adopting the "left-hand rule" proves advantageous during wreck exploration, entailing following the left wall at intersections. This approach facilitates comprehensive wreck traversal, enabling easy egress by reversing the path and adhering to the right wall.
  • Exclusive items found solely within procedural wrecks include:
    • Golden Effigy (of the Portal Generator)
    • Access Card
    • Blueprint Microchip (yielding Light Box, Fireplace, Tree Pot, and Solar Quartz recipes)
    • Trade Rocket Multiplier Fuse
    • Leglus Frog Eggs
    • Jumi Frog Eggs
    • Lillia Tree Seed
    • Prunea Tree Seed