Overview
Salvaging is a resource recovery system in Rooted that allows players to break down junk items found throughout the world into usable crafting materials. In a post-apocalyptic setting where manufacturing no longer exists, salvaging is one of the primary ways to acquire construction and crafting resources.
How salvaging works
Players collect junk items scattered across the world, including the remnants of pre-war civilization: broken electronics, damaged furniture, scrap metal, and other debris. These items can be broken down at crafting stations to extract usable materials such as Metal Sheets, Planks, and other components.
Resource types
Materials obtained through salvaging feed directly into the crafting and Base Building systems:
Resource | Use |
|---|---|
Metal Sheets | Advanced construction and crafting recipes. |
Planks | Building structures and furniture. |
Slabs | Construction material for bases. |
Logs | Basic building material, also obtained from tree harvesting. |
Repair vs. salvage
Not all found items need to be broken down. The Workbench allows players to repair certain post-apocalypse items, restoring them to functional condition. The decision to repair or salvage depends on the player's current needs: a damaged tool might be worth repairing if tools are scarce, or worth salvaging if raw materials are the priority.
Transport and storage
Gathered junk and salvaged materials can be transported using vehicles like Carts and Sleds, and stored in craftable Storage Chests and dedicated racks (Slabs Rack, Planks Rack, Metal Sheets Rack). Efficient transport between scavenging sites and base is a key part of mid-game logistics.