LumiKin
Oxygen Not Included

Review · Strategy · PC · macOS · Linux

Oxygen Not Included

By the LumiKin editors

Reviewed: 01 May 2026

PC · macOS · Linux

Klei Entertainment · 2017

LumiScore

68/100

Good

Oxygen Not Included is a complex strategy simulation game that fosters problem solving, spatial awareness, and strategic thinking through resource management.

Growth (BDS)

52

Risk (RIS)

0

Daily limit

120min

Age guidance

7+

Developmental benefits

B1Cognitive
0.90
B2Social-emotional
0.17
B3Motor
0.10

Oxygen Not Included is a highly engaging and complex colony simulation game that excels at fostering advanced cognitive skills. Players are constantly challenged to solve intricate problems related to resource management, thermodynamics, gas and liquid flow, and power grids. It demands strategic thinking, critical analysis, and spatial awareness to design efficient and sustainable bases, while also encouraging creativity in overcoming environmental challenges. The game provides continuous adaptive challenges through its procedurally generated worlds and dynamic systems, making learning and transfer of knowledge a core mechanic.

Design risks

R1Dopamine pressure
0.00
R2Monetization
0.00
R3Social risk
0.00

The primary risks associated with Oxygen Not Included stem from its inherent complexity and the potential for extended engagement due to its deep simulation mechanics. While the game is free from manipulative dopamine loops, aggressive monetization, or social risks, its demanding nature can lead to players spending significant time optimizing their colonies. The constant threat of colony collapse due to resource scarcity or environmental hazards, though a core gameplay element, could be a source of frustration for some players.

Heads up

  • Monthly spendTypical real-money spend by engaged players: $0–0/mo.

Regulatory compliance · DSA·GDPR-K·ODDS

  • DSA:Estimated from review data. No dark pattern or child-targeting concerns found.
  • GDPR-K:Estimated from review data. No privacy or child-targeting concerns found.
  • ODDS:Estimated from review data. Some session-extension signals; manual review required.
Avg playtime~7 hReviewedMay 2026How scores are calculated →

Parents ask…

Is Oxygen Not Included safe for kids?

LumiKin gives Oxygen Not Included a LumiScore of 68/100, recommended for ages 7 and up. It offers solid benefits but needs parental guidance on the risks.

What age is Oxygen Not Included appropriate for?

LumiKin's rubric recommends a minimum age of 7+ for Oxygen Not Included, based on benefits, risks, and content review.

How long should kids play Oxygen Not Included?

LumiKin's recommended play time for Oxygen Not Included is Up to 2 hours/day, calibrated to the game's dopamine, monetization, and social-pressure profile.

What are the main risks of Oxygen Not Included?

The primary risks associated with Oxygen Not Included stem from its inherent complexity and the potential for extended engagement due to its deep simulation mechanics. While the game is free from manipulative dopamine loops, aggressive monetization, or social risks, its demanding nature can lead to players spending significant time optimizing their colonies. The constant threat of colony collapse