Crude base manufacturing
The Moon harbors ample metal, as well as in the fixed parts of landers, which some of you may have noticed tend to occupy a significant space over the years. Our next release, R1.6, will focus on metal manufacturing.
To source metal, Release 1.6 will introduce mining of asteroids on the Moon surface. Asteroids, predominantly composed of metal—especially iron—provide an easier metal source than lunar regolith. Another method will involve disassembling the fixed parts of landers in a specialized workshop equipped with dedicated tools. A beneficial side effect of this is decluttering the space around your base.
The retrieved metal will be processed in a basic smelter to produce small, molded parts, which can then be assembled using simple techniques such as riveting. My inspiration comes from late 19th-century metalwork used in submarines and steam engines. Manufacturing a structure capable of withstanding 1 bar of pressure is surprisingly feasible—considering the constant pressure environment. For context, the plumbing in your home handles much higher pressures and is often quite old. Fatigue issues in airliners mainly stem from the compression/decompression cycle. The new modules will adopt a steampunk aesthetic with visible rivets, and will be heavier to compensate for the material's inherent characteristics. The steampunk aesthetic of 19th-century steam engines in our in-space manufacturing isn't just for show. Initially, space manufacturing will have to contend with lower-quality materials and limited tooling—similar to the challenges faced by the pioneers of industrial metallurgy two centuries ago. Those modules will require a kit with all complex parts to be shipped from Earth, which will still be lighter than shipping entire modules.
These modules, being less secure than other base structures, will be designated primarily for hydroponics. They may need to be sealed off in the event of leaks, a factor to consider in your base layout.
Additionally, I plan to introduce frames for solar panels that can be locally manufactured. You'll only need to add a kit consisting of photovoltaic cells and a small engine to create functional solar panels. I'm also exploring the possibility of crude battery manufacturing by combining a light Earth-shipped kit with local materials.
R1.6, slated for release this summer, will not only focus on these innovations but also include bug fixes, quality of life enhancements, and graphical improvements. I eagerly await your feedback and suggestions to help prioritize and address the most crucial issues.
Long-term roadmap and how you can help
My goal is to develop Outer Space Shack as a long-term project. You can support this vision by purchasing the game now rather than later. If you've already bought the game, leaving a review on Steam would be immensely helpful, as reviews genuinely make a difference.
There's plenty to do in terms of adding new features, from technologies to game behaviors. I've outlined plans for local manufacturing of components as the next technological advancement. Initially, this will include basic modules for hydroponics and solar panel frames, but it will evolve in sophistication over time. This includes realistic limitations on what can be achieved without needing to transport a $100B factory from Earth. A significant focus will be on improving materials since most metals we use are complex alloys, and finding a source for plastics is crucial. I'm also exploring how a small-scale electronics component industry could be developed on the Moon, despite anticipating some limitations. Plans include adding aluminum and oxygen mining from regolith and uranium mining to ensure a steady energy supply. These enhancements should allow for base expansion without the high costs of Earth shipments.
As bases grow, gameplay will evolve to include societal dynamics, transitioning astronauts from short-term visitors to long-term inhabitants. One feature I've promised my children is the ability to have children born in space, which will require perfect radiation protection and dedicated children's areas. More social and leisure spaces, larger nature-infused areas to avoid feeling confined like in an airliner or submarine, and equipment with artificial gravity to keep astronauts in good shape for potential returns to Earth are also on the agenda.
Currently, the game includes scenarios on the Moon and Mars, with Mars particularly deserving attention due to its specific resources, such as iron and large-scale water ice mining. Carbon is also abundant on Mars.
Looking further ahead, I'm considering adding new locations. An ice planet like Ceres, with gameplay centered around asteroid mining, is next on the list. I'm also researching the feasibility of settling on Jupiter's moons and Titan, although I have reservations about the realism of settling in such environments. Other moons of Saturn might be viable alternatives. Expanding the playable terrain is also on the horizon; currently, about half a square mile is available, but I anticipate needing more space within a year. Another future extension could include multiple bases with inter-base trade, especially outside Earth's gravity well.
Expanding the game in this niche of easy-to-play, realistic space colonization is a significant commitment, and your support through game purchases and reviews is crucial. If you're considering buying the game, doing so sooner helps support future development. And if you're inclined, leaving a review would be greatly appreciated.