Can the Moonpool Hold the Cyclops in Subnautica? A Deep Dive
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The short answer is a resounding no, the Moonpool cannot hold the Cyclops in Subnautica. While this might be disappointing for those hoping for a convenient, secure docking bay for their massive submarine, the game’s mechanics and design simply do not allow for it. The Moonpool is specifically designed for smaller vehicles like the Seamoth and the Prawn Suit. Attempting to dock a Cyclops in the Moonpool is futile, as the size difference is simply too substantial. Let’s delve into why this is, and explore other docking and storage options for the Cyclops.
Understanding the Limitations
The Moonpool serves as a versatile base module, perfectly suited for the streamlined Seamoth and the more robust Prawn Suit. It provides essential functionality, such as repair capabilities and convenient access to and from the water. Its design, however, is not compatible with the gargantuan dimensions of the Cyclops.
The Cyclops is by far the largest vehicle in Subnautica, towering at 54 meters long, 12 meters wide, and 14 meters tall. Its sheer size is a core part of its design as a mobile base, capable of carrying the smaller vehicles and acting as a powerful exploration platform. The Moonpool’s relatively compact structure cannot physically accommodate a submarine of this size, and there is no programmed interaction for such a docking mechanism.
The game’s developers have clearly designed separate solutions for docking and accessing the Cyclops. Instead of docking into a Moonpool, the primary docking mechanism for the Cyclops is the Cyclops Docking Hatch, a base module that is placed on top of a base.
Why the Cyclops Needs Its Own Solution
The sheer size of the Cyclops necessitates a docking solution that is distinctly different from those for the smaller vehicles. The game mechanics and design reflect this separation, emphasizing the Cyclops as a self-contained, powerful mobile base, rather than a vehicle that docks within another structure.
The Cyclops functions more like a submarine that supports its smaller vehicles. Its docking mechanism is designed to load and offload the Seamoth and Prawn Suit within its internal bay, providing a sort of mobile vehicle depot. The player can use it to explore deeper areas with the Cyclops and then deploy smaller vehicles to enter tighter spaces or collect resources. The Cyclops is capable of diving to a depth of 500 meters, which can be upgraded up to 1700 meters. This makes it a critical tool for exploring the deepest regions of the game, as you can transport yourself and your other vehicles in one convenient vessel.
Alternatives to Moonpool Docking for the Cyclops
So, if the Moonpool won’t work for the Cyclops, what are the viable alternatives? The game provides a dedicated solution: the Cyclops Docking Hatch.
Cyclops Docking Hatch
This base module allows the Cyclops to dock on top of a base. The Cyclops Docking Hatch creates a large platform where the Cyclops sits, aligning it with the docking station. Upon docking, the Cyclops can be accessed from the interior of the base through the chin hatch.
When you navigate the Cyclops close to the Cyclops Docking Hatch (within 13 meters), the autopilot will engage and guide the submarine onto the dock. The docked Cyclops will then charge its power cells using the base’s power. This integration provides a secure and efficient method for maintaining the Cyclops’s operational status. The docking station eliminates the need for using the moonpool.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can the Cyclops be repaired in a Moonpool?
No, the Cyclops cannot be repaired in a Moonpool because it can’t be docked there. Repairs to the Cyclops hull must be performed using the repair tool while you are inside of the vehicle itself. If the Cyclops is in a dock, you can use the repair tool within the Cyclops.
2. How do I charge the Cyclops battery?
When the Cyclops is docked at a Cyclops Docking Hatch, its power cells will automatically recharge if your base has sufficient power. You can also charge the Cyclops using spare power cells from the Prawn Suit while on thermal vents. Also, if you have the Power Cell Charger upgrade in your Cyclops you can recharge dead power cells.
3. Can I store a Seamoth or Prawn Suit inside the Cyclops?
Yes, the Cyclops has an internal bay designed for storing either a Seamoth or a Prawn Suit. This enables you to transport smaller vehicles to different locations.
4. Is it possible to build within the Cyclops?
Yes, you can use the Habitat Builder to construct various items inside the Cyclops, such as storage lockers, fabricators, and power cell chargers. This enhances its functionality as a mobile base.
5. How deep can the Cyclops dive?
The base diving depth for the Cyclops is 500 meters. With upgrades, its maximum dive depth can be increased to 1700 meters.
6. Will Warpers attack the Cyclops?
No, Warper creatures do not target the Cyclops. They are essentially harmless to it.
7. Can Reapers damage the Cyclops?
Yes, Reaper Leviathans can and will attack the Cyclops. They are among the most dangerous creatures in the game, so be cautious when navigating their territories. The Cyclops can also kill a reaper but is mostly used as a target.
8. What does the Cyclops horn do?
The Cyclops horn is primarily used as a signal. While it does not have a significant effect on all creatures, small fish and certain predators like Sandsharks, Bonesharks, and Stalkers might avoid the Cyclops when the horn is sounded.
9. Why is my Cyclops losing power?
Several factors can cause power loss in the Cyclops, including docking low-power vehicles, using onboard equipment like fabricators and chargers, or simply using the engines. Managing power consumption is key to effective use of the Cyclops.
10. Can the Cyclops flood?
Yes, the Cyclops can flood if it sustains too much hull damage. It will produce alarm sounds. The game has been patched to stop infinite alarm sounds from when it is completely destroyed and unrecoverable but will still flood.
11. Why is the Cyclops door locked?
A Cyclops door may be locked if the vehicle is too close to the ground or an obstruction. The vehicle bay doors will also lock while the fire suppression system is activated.
12. Can Ghost Leviathans damage the Cyclops?
Yes, Ghost Leviathans can damage the Cyclops. They are powerful creatures and should be avoided whenever possible.
13. What is Silent Running mode in Cyclops?
Silent Running mode reduces the Cyclops‘s noise and light emissions, but it significantly slows down its speed. It can be useful for avoiding detection from hostile creatures. When in this mode the lights will turn red.
14. Can Crabsquids damage the Cyclops?
Yes, Crabsquids can damage the Cyclops and they also have an EMP attack that can disable its functions temporarily.
15. Can I beat the game without the Cyclops?
Yes, it is possible to complete Subnautica without the Cyclops, though it requires more strategy and may be more challenging. You can instead use the Prawn Suit, but it is slower and has less storage.
Conclusion
The Moonpool, while a useful base module for smaller vehicles, is simply not designed to accommodate the massive Cyclops. The game offers the Cyclops Docking Hatch as the appropriate alternative, allowing players to dock, recharge, and maintain the Cyclops as their mobile base. Understanding the limitations and capabilities of each vehicle is essential for effective exploration and resource management in Subnautica. The Cyclops continues to be a pivotal vessel for deep-sea exploration and transportation, making its unique docking mechanism a crucial aspect of the gameplay.