Welcome to your new career as a spacefaring salvage technician! In this Hardspace: Shipbreaker gameplay guide, we’ll walk you through an average day on the job, what tools to use, how to stay safe, and how to maximize your profits while avoiding fiery death.

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The Basics

You play as a Cutter: a lone worker dismantling derelict ships in zero gravity to pay off a towering debt. Each job consists of salvaging specific parts and materials using a variety of high-tech tools.

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Step 1: Preparing the Ship

• Use Visors Wisely: Switch between structure, systems, and object visors to locate key elements like fuel tanks, power cells, and attachment points.
• Enter Safely: Always depressurize the ship first to prevent explosive decompression.
• Clear Space: Remove the “floor” panels for a clear path to launch salvaged items.

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Step 2: Disassembly and Salvage

• Grapple Tool: Dislodge and maneuver loose parts. Use gently for delicate or high-value items.
• Cutter Tool: Slice through metal and supports using the precision laser or wide-area split saw. Avoid cutting into hazardous components!
• Tethers: Use limited tethers to automate dragging large or heavy parts into the proper salvage bays.

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Work Order Goals

• Complete Objectives: Salvage things like the power cell, reactor, or cooling systems for certification credit.
• Salvage Safely: Removing volatile components like reactors must be done swiftly once disconnected to avoid overheating or explosion.

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Resource Management

• Time Management: Each shift is timed. Maximize profit within the window.
• Oxygen & Fuel: Watch your meters! Head back to base for resupply before running out.
• Equipment Wear: Take care of your gear. Crashes, electricity, and heat can damage your suit or tools.

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Pro Tips

• Plan Your Route: Disassemble from the inside out. Don’t trap key components.
• Stack Objectives: While focusing on main tasks, still grab high-value salvage like thrusters.
• Upgrade Smart: Prioritize gear upgrades that enhance mobility, cutting efficiency, or oxygen supply.

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End of Day Summary

At shift’s end, you’ll see:

• Credits Earned: Based on materials salvaged.
• Fees: Rent, repair, and fuel costs.
• Debt Progress: Every credit counts toward that massive loan.

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Final Thoughts

Hardspace: Shipbreaker combines satisfying zero-G physics with meticulous dismantling and risk management. It’s a cerebral, dangerous, and strangely relaxing experience that rewards planning, precision, and efficiency.

Whether you’re in it for the upgrades or the joy of tethering a ship’s hull into the abyss, just remember: safety first, profit second, and never forget to decompress.