Biome & Layer System
Design Decision
The major biomes/layers will consist of soil/regolith, crust, and mantle. Different regions have different material compositions.
Three-Layer System
1. Soil/Regolith Layer
- Surface material
- Varies by region (see Terrain-Regions)
- Interactive layer for gameplay
2. Crust Layer
- Bedrock and underlying rock formations
- Exposed in certain areas (highlands, canyon walls)
- Contains mineral deposits
3. Mantle Layer
- Deep underground layer
- Not directly accessible in current build
- Future expansion possibility
Regional Material Variations
Each terrain region has unique material properties:
| Region | Primary Materials | Special Features |
|---|---|---|
| Highlands | Bedrock, boulders, clays | Exposed rock, craters |
| Lowlands | Soil, sand, dust | Smooth terrain |
| Polar | Ice, dust, soil | Mixed layers |
| Canyons | Exposed crust, ore | Cliff faces |
| Plains | Dust, soil, subsurface ice | Underground water ice |
Biome-Specific Properties
Weather Variations
- Different biomes have different weather patterns
- CO2 cloud formation in specific areas
- UV radiation levels vary by biome
Visual Differences
- Each biome has distinct visual appearance
- Color palette changes by region
- Atmospheric effects vary
Gameplay Differences
- Resource availability
- Movement speed/difficulty
- Environmental hazards
- Building constraints
Related: