The Abandoned Ruins in My Time at Sandrock offer a wealth of resources and relics crucial for crafting and progression. However, gaining access and efficiently mining these ruins requires strategy and preparation. In this guide, we’ll explore how to unlock and navigate the ruins, which resources to prioritize, and tips for making the most of each visit.

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1. Unlocking the Abandoned Ruins: The Crane Lift Quest

To access the Abandoned Ruins, you must first complete the Crane Lift quest for Rocky:

• Quest Availability: Early game.
• Requirements: Craft and install the crane lift using materials from your workshop.

Tip: Complete this quest as soon as possible to unlock valuable resources like copper and data discs.

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2. Entry Fee: Pay Weekly to Access

• Cost: Requires a weekly fee to maintain access.
• Tip: Budget for this fee by completing commissions regularly.

Pro Tip: Prioritize your first few trips to gather high-value resources like tin and old parts to offset the entry cost.

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3. Navigating the Ruins: Understanding the Level System

The Abandoned Ruins are divided into 11 levels, each offering unique resources:

• Level Progression: Start at Level 1 and unlock deeper levels by finding exit doors marked by green icons.
• Resource Availability:
  • Levels 1–3: Copper ore, data discs, old parts.
  • Levels 4–6: Tin ore, engines, and advanced relics.
  • Levels 7–11: Rare relics, manganese, and iron.

Pro Tip: Focus on progressing through levels quickly to unlock access to rarer resources for future visits.

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4. Efficient Mining Techniques

• Use the Scanner: Press F to highlight hidden relics and resources marked by golden icons.
• Focus on High-Value Targets: Prioritize relics like engines and power stones over basic ores.
• Mining Strategy: Clear paths to green icons first to unlock new levels, then backtrack for additional resources.

Pro Tip: Use your jetpack (hold space bar) to navigate quickly through mined-out areas.

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5. Dangers in the Ruins: What to Watch For

• Explosive Barrels: Emit a distinct sound—destroy from a distance to avoid damage.
• Hazardous Debris: Can block paths; clear carefully to prevent damage.

Tip: Always listen for sound cues while mining to avoid unexpected damage.

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6. Managing Stamina Efficiently

Mining consumes significant stamina. To maximize your time:

• Carry Food: Stock up on stamina-restoring items before each trip.
• Skill Upgrades: Invest in the Gathering Knowledge tree to reduce stamina costs.
• Resting: Leave the ruins if low on stamina and return after sleeping.

Pro Tip: Prioritize leveling up to increase max stamina for longer trips.

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7. Profitable Resources to Prioritize

• Copper and Tin: Essential for early-game crafting.
• Engines and Old Parts: Required for machinery upgrades.
• Data Discs: Trade for blueprints and research at the Research Center.

Pro Tip: Focus on relics like engines and power stones for the best return on time invested.

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8. Return on Investment: Making Ruins Trips Profitable

• Sell Unneeded Relics: Use the Commerce Guild or local shops.
• Craft and Sell: Convert ores to bars or craft items like weapons to maximize profits.

Tip: Plan trips based on commission requirements to gather needed resources efficiently.

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Conclusion: Mastering the Abandoned Ruins

The Abandoned Ruins are a vital resource hub in My Time at Sandrock. By unlocking levels quickly, prioritizing high-value resources, and managing stamina effectively, you can ensure each visit is both profitable and productive.

With these tips, you’ll be mining like a pro in no time.

Good luck, builder!