In "Oxygen Not Included," managing resources is a core part of survival. Gas storage quickly becomes a problem as colonies expand. The game provides Gas Reservoirs, but they take up space and have limits. Many players use an alternative method known as infinite gas storage in "ONI."
This method is based on game mechanics where gas and liquid cannot occupy the same tile. By using this rule, players can force the game to continuously store gas in a single location without traditional storage limits.
Some players consider it an exploit. Others treat it as a clever use of mechanics.
What Is Infinite Gas Storage in 'Oxygen Not Included'?
The "Oxygen Not Included" infinite gas storage method allows players to store unlimited amounts of a single gas type in a very small area.
Instead of relying on Gas Reservoir buildings, this system uses an Air Vent combined with liquid placement. The key mechanic is simple: a tile cannot contain both liquid and gas at the same time.
When liquid occupies a tile, gas is forced to move elsewhere. If the system is designed correctly, the gas keeps stacking in adjacent tiles without reaching a storage limit.
This makes it useful for long-term colony builds where space efficiency matters.
How Infinite Gas Storage Works in 'ONI'
The system relies on pressure behavior and tile occupation rules.
An Air Vent normally releases gas into a room. However, if liquid is placed on the same tile, the game cannot place gas there. As a result, the gas is pushed into nearby valid tiles.
This creates a looping effect where gas continues to accumulate without triggering standard storage limits.
Each setup should only store one gas type. Mixing gases can cause pressure problems and instability.
How to Build Infinite Gas Storage in 'Oxygen Not Included'
To create an "ONI" infinite gas storage setup, the structure must be built carefully to avoid leaks and overpressure issues.
Step 1: Build a Closed Structure
Create a sealed room. Inside it, place a Gas Pump and a Gas Vent. A Liquid Vent is optional, but it helps automate setup. Wire and piping can be added early to avoid re-opening the structure later.
Step 2: Prepare a Vacuum
Before activating the system, remove all gases inside the room using the Gas Pump. Once empty, disconnect the pump to prevent gas from re-entering.
A vacuum is important because it stabilizes the system before liquid placement.
Step 3: Install the Air Vent
Place an Air Vent inside the structure. This is the core of the system. Outside the room, ensure proper wiring is ready if automation is planned.
Step 4: Add Liquid to the Vent Tile
Place a small amount of liquid directly on the Air Vent tile. Water is commonly used. The amount should be minimal to avoid overpressure issues.
If too much liquid is added, the vent may become blocked. Adjust by removing excess liquid if needed.
Step 5: Seal the Structure
Close the room completely. Once sealed, ensure no gas remains inside except what will be pumped in later.
Step 6: Start Pumping Gas
Begin pumping the chosen gas into the system. Since the vent tile already contains liquid, the gas cannot settle there. It will be forced into surrounding tiles instead.
Disconnect pumps afterward if needed to prevent unwanted backflow.
Important Rules for Stable Infinite Gas Storage
Several conditions must be followed to keep the system stable:
- Only one gas type should be stored per setup.
- The Air Vent tile must always contain liquid.
- Avoid overfilling the liquid, or the vent will stop functioning.
- Pumps should be controlled or disconnected after use.
- A vacuum setup improves stability and reduces errors.
If multiple gases enter the same storage, a pressure imbalance may occur, leading to system failure.
Why Players Use Infinite Gas Storage in 'ONI'
The main advantage of "Oxygen Not Included's" infinite gas storage is space efficiency. Traditional Gas Reservoirs require multiple buildings, pipes, and power. This system compresses storage into a small area.
It is commonly used for:
- Large oxygen production setups
- Hydrogen storage for power systems
- Excess carbon dioxide management
- Late-game colony optimization
It also reduces lag in large colonies by minimizing building counts.
Limitations and Risks of the System
Although effective, the system has drawbacks:
- Requires precise setup conditions
- Can break if liquid is removed or misplaced
- Not intended as an official storage mechanic
- Sensitive to gas mixing issues
- May require rebuilding if disrupted
Players using this method often design backup storage systems in case failure occurs.
Optimizing Infinite Gas Storage in 'Oxygen Not Included'
Once the basic setup works, players often expand it with automation systems, multiple vents, or modular designs. Gas pumps can be upgraded with filters to ensure only one gas enters each storage unit.
Proper planning improves efficiency and prevents accidental system breakdowns.
The Art of Gas Management in 'ONI'
The infinite gas storage method demonstrates how Oxygen Not Included systems can be manipulated through careful use of game mechanics.
You can combine vents, liquids, and pressure rules to create highly efficient storage systems that outperform standard structures in space usage.
When executed correctly, it becomes a long-term solution for managing colony gas production without constant expansion of storage buildings.
