FAQ: 10 Things Every Space Traveler Should Know! (And 6 More)
------------------------- Cosmic Date 19.04.2024 -------------------------
From: E-Corp Official #232178 To: Transmit Helperbot System
Subject: On the Topic of the Incoming Collision with “Steam” on the 25th of April, 2024
Dear E-Corp Representatives,
We hope this message finds you in a timely fashion through the Helperbot Transmission System. We’ve received questions leading up to the inevitable arrival on “Steam” soon. We’ve prepared this official communication for you in case of emergency:
F.A.Q.
Will there be co-op? Unfortunately, you will not be able to team up with fellow spacefarers to explore the Mini-verse! This is a solo mission, and we hope to have trained you well for it. We trust in you, Mininauts!
Was it really made by a solo developer? Indeed! The Mini-verse was single-mindedly created by a particularly crafty human being who goes by Isaac Denner.
How can I make Minicology fullscreen? [ESC] to pause - then Graphics Settings -> Resolution Settings -> Fullscreen.
Is there controller support? Unfortunately, there will be no controller support at launch, and at this stage, there are no plans to implement it yet.
Is there a story? There seems to be a bit of a discrepancy caused by the galactic shift. Guided by your trusty Helperbot you should be able to track down logs and transmissions that’ll help you uncover why you’re here - and clue you in to the dangers lurking in the heart of the mini-verse. Do make sure to report back to E-corp *wink wink*
Does Minicology have multiple planets? The Mini-verse is a vast expanse. Each new save generates somewhere around 5000 planetary systems - each with four to five planets with dozens of procedurally generated structures, quest objectives, and secret points of interest!
Is there renewable energy? At E-Corp, we specialise in providing you with innovative ways to power your settlements! As you progress, you’ll be able to craft windmills, solar panels, and geothermal generators. With enough patience and technological prowess, even nuclear reactors and lava-powered wireless energy are possible!
How do I repair my ship? In case of a shipwrecking emergency, you will need a Resonance Extractor to repair your craft. In case of general cluelessness, your Helperbot unit will provide you with necessary guidance.
Am I really going to have to crank gears to make ingots and fabricate things for the whole game? That seems like a pain! Life in the Mini-verse thrives on ingenuity and automation! Any structure needing manual labour can be fully automated using generators. With pipes and generators, you can transport materials, ship items between planets, and automate craft recipes. Ah, the beauty of technological progress.
I’m having trouble defeating a boss, what do I do? Encountering challenging creatures in the Mini-verse requires both crafting skill and ingenuity - relying on just one won't cut it! Before facing a boss, scour nearby planets for weapons and armor. For blue zone planets, craft with Rubidium, Solarium, or Veridium; for pink zones, use Thermanite, Toxicite, or Cryolite.
I can’t figure out Automation - how does it work? You can find helpful diagrams explaining automation by talking to Otto, the celestial otter! To meet Otto, you’ll just have to catch three falling stars in one evening - he’ll appear by your spaceship soon afterward.
Is there a jetpack item? Yes. In fact, there are four of them. Sky's the limit… Literally.
Is there fast-travel? Our patented fast-travel technology requires rocket fuel to operate - unfortunately, it seems like most of the available refineries have been overtaken by V̵̲̌ͅo̸͉͂ṟ̵̌t̷̡͐è̴̠x̴̧̠̍ ̴̧͔̽̈Ẻ̵̙ň̸̨̲̍t̷͚̓i̵̠̔t̵̻̎i̷̠͖̽ė̵̹͇s̷̙̙̾ [REDACTED].
What do you mean by “actions that have consequences”? Imagine a Mini-verse void of any life. Plants? Gone. Creatures? Gone. Fronkeys? Wiped out. Does that sound like fun to you? Yes? Oh. Well. Plenty of chaos to cause for you then.
I am a content creator. Where can I get a key? If you want to broadcast your journey through the Mini-verse, you can sign up via our Lurkit page.
Where can I share feedback and report bugs? Discord! Or use the “submit bug” button from the demo/full game’s pause screen!
Well, spacefarers, this should be as good a preparation as any. See you on launch day. The April 25th is around the corner!
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To stay up to date join our Discord, and of course, tell your friends about Minicology!
------------------------- Cosmic Date 09.04.2024 -------------------------
Greetings Space Travelers,
Helperbot here, back with a new transmission!
Do you know that feeling? That creeping itch that something is about to happen. You would think these emotions are impossible for a little Helperbot like me… but I just know something is brewing. I sense a change in the atmosphere, a rise in overall planetary temperature, the fronkies are jumping higher than usual…
*ping* Hold on… a transmission?
“From: E-Corp Official #232178
Our satellites have picked up signals of a great disturbance. Our galaxy is colliding with something called “Steam” on the 25th of April, 2024. We keep receiving messages that translate to “Release Date”.
The message also included the following numbers:
“$14.99/€14.79/£12.79”
We’re unsure what this means, but we recommend all affiliated partners prepare for small environmental shifts and a fuzzy feeling akin to a digital buzzing.
Those willing to prepare for this imminent cosmic event can access the Demo Programme right now.”
Well. A “Release Date” on “Steam” on the 25th of April. And all that priced at “$14.99/€14.79/£12.79”.
And it looks like there's a "demo" available right now?
That does sound like big news!
We hope you’re excited space travellers. The 25th of April is already mighty close!
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To stay up to date join our Discord, and of course, tell your friends about Minicology!
------------------------- Cosmic Date 29.02.2024 -------------------------
Greetings Space Travelers,
It is time for another installment of the E-Corp Intergalactic Almanac, your go-to source for navigating the wonders and dangers of the cosmos.
I know that looking at that wide, star-studded expanse we call the cosmos makes you humans nostalgic sometimes. There is so much to see out there, so many planets to explore - it’s a vastness the weak limited human brain cannot comprehend.
While scouring through E-Corp’s Encyclopaedia Of Artistry I stumbled across this poem. It seems like the author, a certain E-Corp Official #232178, was fascinated by the vastness of space:
As I journey through space in my rocketship tight, I solemnly ponder the vastness of night. The emptiness grips me, a silent refrain, In the depths of the cosmos, where stars rarely deign.
But amidst the void, a flicker ignites, A beacon of hope in the darkest of nights. For though space may be empty, its wonders abound, In the mysteries waiting to be found.
*Sniff* *Sniff* Oh dear! To make ol’ Helperbot weep like this. Not that I can physically weep, but they did program with a sense of emotional awareness… you know what I mean!
Our universe has a certain sense of endlessness to it. In the mini-verse, planets, galaxies, and all structures are procedurally generated. Planets have randomized terrain, and structures scattered around them. At E-Corp, our scientists call it “jigsaw generation”.
Jigsaw generation is a style of procedural generation where rooms/segments are configured as 'building blocks’. A generator – or an all-powerful entity, if that’s what you’re into – assembles them in random order (so sometimes you have a tower linked to a hall linked to a chest room, or maybe the hall leads into the tower with a chest room on top, etc.)
Galaxies are generated with random configurations of planets and the pathways between them. System quests are also randomized.
Then there's Mininaut-generated procedural content. Mininaut can mix and match serums to generate their own potion combos, as well as combine some ~250 different types of arrows by placing different feathers, arrow shafts, and arrowheads together. They can also use their combo serums as arrowhead tips for extra poison/corrosion/critical damage.
As you can see, the mini-verse is a realm of endless possibilities. Who knows what you might run into? A planet full of treasure? A beastly creature that’ll take your life? Or your slightly annoying but well-meaning neighbour? Up to you to find out.
See you in the mini-verse, travelers!
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To stay up to date join our Discord, and of course, tell your friends about Minicology!
------------------------- Cosmic Date 22.03.2024 -------------------------
Greetings Space Travelers,
Once again, Helperbot here, bringing you a fresh instalment of E-Corp’s Intergalactic Almanac, your go-to source for navigating the wonders and dangers of the cosmos.
It may not seem obvious but when it comes to packing for your interstellar journeys, you should always travel light. Nonetheless, you’ll still need that equipment, right?
Imagine being able to combine the versatility of a bulky toolbox with the sleek lightness of a teaspoon. Introducing: The E-Corp™ Nano-Tool! Uniquely combining a variety of the most commonly used tools in a spacefarer’s arsenal, the Nano-Tool is a must-have for anyone planning on venturing beyond their homeworld or, frankly, their front porch. With its pocket-sized form factor and retractable tools, the Nano-Tool allows for mashing, digging, chopping, fixing, and planting on the go.
What modules are included in the Nano-Tool?
Nano-Hammer: If you ever need to absolutely clobber something - be it a built structure, or a crucial piece of infrastructure such as a pipe - the Nano-Hammer is your best friend. You can even use it to redecorate any settlements by taking out a wall in the background.
Nano-Pickaxe: The most precious resources the universe has to offer are usually buried under layers on layers of soil & rocks. That’s where the pickaxe comes in handy! Dig straight down and explore the wondrous caves and the valuable treasures hidden beneath the planet’s crust.
Nano-Axe: Since the inception of sentient life in the Miniverse, wood has been a major player. It is a versatile material that can be used to build anything from to weaponry to shelter. Always perfectly sharpened, the Nano-Axe allows you to give any tree a swift but painless death!
Nano-Wrench: I know what you might think: “Helperbot, why is every module of the Nano-Tool used to commit heinous acts of death and destruction?”. Boy, do I have news for you: as the tinkerer’s favourite tool, the Nano-Wrench allows you to repair and construct various structures and automatons!
Nano-Trowel: Finally, we have something for the green thumbs among you: The Nano-Trowel is a steady companion for any amateur gardeners looking to grow crops on faraway planets. All you need is a seed, some fertile soil, and a loooooooooooooot of patience.
Order your Nano-Tool now from your nearest E-Corp Fulfilment Centre or loudly exclaim “I’M NO FOOL, I WANT A NANO-TOOL!” in the vicinity of your personal Helperbot unit.
So, fellow explorers, get the E-Corp Nano-Tool and use its transformative power that lies within your grasp. With each planet we reshape, we not only expand the boundaries of human civilization but also reaffirm our place as architects of the universe.
And remember: At E-Corp, we are committed to using the powers of technology responsibly.
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To stay up to date join our Discord, and of course, tell your friends about Minicology!
E-Corp Intergalactic Almanac: Shape Your Own Planets
------------------------- Cosmic Date 29.02.2024 -------------------------
Greetings Cosmic Pioneers,
Helperbot here again, providing you with a brand new chapter from the E-Corp’s Intergalactic Almanac, your go-to source for navigating the wonders and dangers of the cosmos.
Today, let's embark on a journey beyond mere survival tactics. Let's delve into the realm of planetary terraforming.
Picture this: A lone astronaut venturing into the far reaches of space, stumbling upon barren, lifeless planets with vast potential. Instead of merely eking out an existence on these desolate rocks, why not transform them into thriving havens of life and opportunity?
Enter the art and science — well, science, mostly — of terraforming.
If you’re not a huge ner– I mean, science fan, you might be wondering: what is Terraforming? Well, the E-Corp Intergalactic Dictionary defines Terraforming as:
the process of deliberately altering the environment of a planet to make it habitable for humans and other terrestrial life forms.
It’s the ultimate expression of Mininauts species’ indomitable spirit to turn anything and everything into a luxury beach resort.
But how does one go about reshaping an entire planet?
First, you must understand the unique challenges posed by each celestial body. Is it too cold, too hot, or lacking in essential resources like water and oxygen? Once you've assessed the conditions, it's time to get creative.
Here, you see an E-Corp operative stumbling upon the rugged beauty of a rock planet. Take in its harsh landscapes sculpted by aeons of geological forces. These formidable worlds, with their towering mountains, deep chasms, and, well… you know, rocks present a unique set of challenges and opportunities for terraforming. Imagine deploying advanced drilling technologies to tap into subterranean reservoirs, unlocking precious resources like minerals buried beneath the surface.
By strategically seeding the barren rock with hardy vegetation and engineering artificial habitats using the incredible power of E-Corp technology, we can gradually breathe life into these ancient, rocky bastions, turning them into thriving oases amidst the cosmic expanse. Through ingenuity and perseverance, even the most inhospitable of planets can be transformed into flourishing hubs of diversity and vitality.
Ethics? I don’t see a governing body..
Of course, terraforming isn't without its ethical and environmental considerations. We must show a commitment to treading carefully, before we inadvertently disrupt fragile ecosystems or irreversibly alter the balance of life on a planetary scale. Of course, an E-Corp Operative like Mininaut would never engage in such barbarism. Right, Mininaut? Mininaut?! Oh dear, what are you doing!?
Moving on...
Let’s, uh… let’s look away for a moment.
So, fellow explorers, as you traverse the cosmos in search of new horizons, remember the transformative power that lies within your grasp. With each planet we reshape, we not only expand the boundaries of human civilization but also reaffirm our place as architects of the universe.
And remember: At E-Corp, we are committed to using the powers of technology responsibly.
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To stay up to date join our Discord, and of course, tell your friends about Minicology!
[CLOSED BETA 0.15.15] Auto-saws and Auto-harvesters
Interesting in joining Minicology's closed beta? Join the Discord to sign up!
Content Additions:
[Closed beta 0.15.14SNAP] Chests! Chests! Chests!
Interesting in joining Minicology's closed beta? Join the Discord to sign up!
Content additions:
-Added decorative drop variants to all challenge/pirate/event chests. You can now have chest rooms filled with terraform/combat/etc chests.
Content Changes:
-Made 'shiny' drop sound for copper less annoyingly high-pitch -Changed Minibot #3 rocket attack to match other E-corp rocket attacks. -Mushroom stumps now sometimes randomly get mushrooms. These mushrooms depend on the biome of your current planet. Just don't put a mushroom stump on a boss planet. Don't do it.
Fixes:
-Optimized Minibot #3 laser attack quite a bit - should cause a lot less lag -Fixed crash on activating terminator brace -Fixed rendering issue with damage-based "charge"-style accessories, which could display charged even when not -Fixed more issues with orb shield icon, should properly exit icon after the shield's timer expires -Blunder core now slightly increases recoil -Fixed issue with 'eye' effect for mob caves mis-rendering on certain planet quadrants
Interesting in joining Minicology's closed beta? Join the Discord to sign up!
Content Additions: -Added Mimic Eels.... you'll run into one of these soon enough. They've got a sense of humor! They'll still eat you, though. -Added Obstinate Glove, an item that grants additional resistance against enemies under 33% health. -Added Terminator Brace, an item that grants additional crit chance against enemies under 33% health. -Added Executioner Protocol, an item that combines Obstinate Glove and Terminator Brace - an excellent option for tough boss fights, giving you a strong buff in the final phase of the fight -Added Avarice, an accessory that increases your luck at the expense of making you take 25% more damage.
-Speaking of, added Luck stat. --At less than 100 luck, you'll have a chance to re-roll for better drops. For instance, if you have 20 luck, kill an enemy, and fail to get a drop - there's a 20% chance that the luck roll will recalculate. If the recalculation is an improvement, you'll take that roll instead for the higher drop! --At over 100 luck, you have a chance to double guaranteed drops. That's pretty nice! Luck will probably replace hunger usage on the perk menu, so there's some chance into late game to gain high stacks of Luck.
Content Changes: -Added more sounds+polish to eels -Added sound effect for flint dropping from stone, special sounds for cracking coal & copper ore -Added extra effects to polyp bomb detonation -Changed coal/copper generation style to be 'uniform'. Reduces cases where random generation fails to generate enough of either resource.
Fixes: -Many accessory descriptions haven't been updated yet, but now read 0% instead of % -Fixed issue where ferrite crystal heart blocks had been accidentally deleted. Would have thought this would have caused crashes - but no! The system is too stable, and ferrite hearts just ceased to exist. -Fixed localization issue with objective/event titles wouldn't render -Fixed crash on firing basic shotgun -Magma planets can now actually spawn eel caves
[Closed Beta 0.15.12] Fire Eels! +crash fixes and more localization backend
Interesting in joining Minicology's closed beta? Join the Discord to sign up!
I didn't get a chance to thoroughly test the crash fix, but I think I tracked down the root of the issue.
Content additions: -Fire eel caves can spawn on Magma Planets now. The little ones don't drop anything... but hang around an eel cave long enough.... ----
Content Changes -Buffed machine pistol damage 13->15 -Machine pistol can now ignore 4 defense on hit - making it pretty good against bosses -Machine pistol is now crafted from Big Eel drop -Coal generation slightly more generous
---- Fixes:
-More backend support for localization. Arrow names now render. Ported several structures over to localized spreadsheet -> added consistent formatting tool for "Coolent Level" "Lava Level" style prompts -Players stuck out of bounds will now slowly take damage and die. Should prevent softlocks. -Players can no longer access the WIP Leviathan area - woops! Meant to make that dev-build accessible only -Fixed crash on completing Terraform chest tutorial while fuel extractor base is in chest/inventory
[0.15.10SNAP Closed Beta] New Accessories
Interesting in joining Minicology's closed beta? Join the Discord to sign up!
Couple new accessories with this update, plus bugfixes and changes to shield handling. This is live on the Snapshot branch.
Content additions:
Power Shield -A temporary shield that charges after you deal 245 damage. Lasts 6 seconds.
Restored Aegis -A mid-late game shield made from most of the previous shield accessories. Charges after dealing 350 damage, and heals 15 health when broken.
Brilliant Aegis -Endgame shield made from Restored Aegis and Corrupted Mercy. Charges after dealing 500 damage and can absorb up to 50 damage before breaking. Heals 15% health when broken.
Content Changes:
-Holo-shield from Shield Generator now absorbs up to 30 damage before breaking. Cooldown adjusted. -Added highlights and made text fields consistent for custom arrows -Added new effect on breaking Orb Shield
Bugfixes:
-Fixed lack of space for many equipment UI fields -Fixed issue where shields would sometimes fail to regenerate after breaking -Fixed issue where Jellyfish with dimensional shields had incorrect particle effect -Fixed craft menu displaying several deprecated items -Fixed crash on selecting "granite fence" item in research menu -Fixed issue where orb shield icon always showed cracked state
