Resource gathering missions are the lifeblood of your operation, providing the raw materials necessary for crafting, research, and base expansion. Mining operations, in particular, are crucial for acquiring essential metals, rare minerals, and energy sources. These missions often take you to hazardous but resource-rich territories, requiring careful planning and defense against ARC interference.
Types of Mining Operations
Depending on the planet's geology and the ARC's presence, mining operations can vary:
- Surface Scavenging: Collecting exposed ore veins and mineral deposits.
- Deep Core Mining: Deploying drills and extractors to reach valuable resources underground.
- Automated Mining Drones: Sending out specialized drones to gather resources in dangerous or remote areas.
- Salvaging ARC Mining Sites: Capturing and repurposing abandoned or active ARC mining facilities.
Essential Resources to Mine
Focus on acquiring resources that are critical for your progression:
- Iron/Steel: For basic construction and armor.
- Titanium/Durasteel: For advanced structures and high-tier equipment.
- Rare Earth Minerals: Essential for advanced electronics, energy weapons, and research.
- Crystals/Gems: Often used as power conduits or components for specialized technology.
- Fuel Sources: For vehicles, power generators, and advanced weaponry.
Setting Up a Mining Operation
Establishing a successful mining operation involves several steps:
- Scouting: Identify resource-rich locations, considering ARC patrol routes and environmental hazards.
- Establishing a Perimeter: Secure the mining site with defensive emplacements and patrols.
- Deploying Extractors: Set up mining equipment, ensuring it's powered and operational.
- Transporting Resources: Establish supply lines to bring mined materials back to your base.
- Defending the Site: Be prepared for ARC attacks aimed at disrupting your operations or stealing resources.
Dealing with ARC Interference
The ARC views resource acquisition as a threat to their own operations. Expect:
- Patrols and Raids: ARC units will attempt to attack your mining sites.
- Sabotage: The ARC may try to disable your mining equipment or steal extracted resources.
- Contested Zones: Some resource-rich areas may be heavily fortified by the ARC.
Key Mining Equipment
| Equipment | Function | Placement |
|---|---|---|
| Ore Extractor | Mines surface deposits | Directly on resource nodes |
| Deep Drill | Mines underground resources | Requires stable ground, often near geological anomalies |
| Automated Mining Drone | Gathers resources remotely | Deployed from base, operates autonomously |
| Resource Transport Vehicle | Carries mined materials back to base | Operates on established routes |
| Defensive Turrets | Protects the mining site | Perimeter of the operation |
Optimizing Mining Efficiency
To maximize your resource yield:
- Prioritize high-yield deposits.
- Ensure constant power supply to extractors.
- Upgrade mining equipment for faster extraction.
- Establish multiple mining sites to diversify resource income.
- Maintain strong defenses to prevent downtime from ARC attacks.
Successful mining operations are the foundation upon which your entire resistance effort is built. Secure these vital resources to ensure humanity's survival and eventual victory.