Cracking the Case: How to Access the Mint Container in Grounded

So, you’re venturing into the dangerous, miniaturized world of Grounded, and you’ve set your sights on that tempting treasure trove of minty goodness, the Ice Caps Mint Container. You’re not alone! These mints are crucial for crafting, especially for weapons augmented with Fresh damage. Let’s get right to the point: you crack open the Mint Container using the Insect Hammer. You’ll need the Tier 2 version of this tool, and a few good whacks at the container’s lid. Inside, you’ll find Mint Shards, ready for harvesting.

Preparing for Your Minty Mission

Before you rush headlong into this endeavor, there are a few things you should consider. The world of Grounded is perilous, even near the starting point, and coming unprepared can lead to a swift and unexpected demise.

Crafting the Insect Hammer

The most critical piece of equipment you’ll need is the Insect Hammer. This is a Tier 2 hammer, meaning it’s a step above the basic Pebblet Hammer. To craft it, you’ll need the following:

• Pebblet Hammer: You should already have this from the early game.
• Ladybug Head: Obtained by defeating Ladybugs.
• Berry Leather: Crafted from Berry Chunks.
• Quartzite Shards: Found in caves and rocky areas.

Once you have all the necessary materials, head to a Workbench and craft the Insect Hammer.

Location, Location, Location!

The Ice Caps Mint Container is located to the northeast of the initial Field Station, not far from the Mysterious Device. If you’ve already activated the Mysterious Device, you likely know your way around the area. Look for a large, white container with a blue Ice Caps logo. It’s pretty hard to miss once you’re in the vicinity.

Dealing with Potential Threats

While the area around the Mint Container isn’t typically swarming with the most dangerous creatures, you should still be cautious. Larva can be a nuisance, and depending on the time of day, Orb Weaver Jr. spiders might be lurking. Bringing a decent weapon and some healing items is always a good idea.

Breaking Into the Mint Container

With your Insect Hammer in hand and your wits about you, approach the Mint Container. Simply aim at the lid and start swinging! It will take several hits with the Insect Hammer to break open the lid. Once it’s open, you’ll have access to the precious Mint Shards.

Harvesting Mint Shards

Once the container is open, you can harvest Mint Shards by interacting with the mints inside. These shards are essential for crafting weapons with the “Fresh” augment, which adds elemental damage to your attacks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Mints in Grounded

Let’s delve into some common questions players have regarding mints, mint containers, and their role in the world of Grounded.

1. How do I get Mint Shards?

You obtain Mint Shards by breaking open and harvesting mints from various locations with the Insect Hammer (Tier 2). The primary source is the Ice Caps Mint Container, but they can also be found in other locations, such as the Black Anthill Lab and Sandbox Lab Outpost.

2. Is Mint finite in Grounded?

Not entirely. While some Mint Shard sources are finite (like those within the Mint Container, the cup on the Shed’s deck, and the Black Anthill/Sandbox Labs), others respawn. Mints harvested from general areas respawn after approximately one in-game day.

3. Do Ice Cap Mints respawn in the container?

No, the Ice Cap Mints inside the Ice Caps Mint Container do not respawn once harvested. You’ll need to look elsewhere for a continuing source.

4. What is the best Mint weapon in Grounded?

The Mint Mace is generally considered one of the best mint-based weapons. It’s a late-game, two-handed club that deals significant damage and has the added bonus of Fresh damage. It is crafted after finding the Picnic Table Chip. While powerful, the Club of the Mother Demon does more damage overall.

5. What is the Mint Jewel for?

Mint Jewels are rare and valuable resources used exclusively for upgrading weapons with the “minty” augment to levels 8 and 9 at the Smithing Station.

6. How do I unlock the Mint Mace?

The recipe for the Mint Mace is unlocked by finding the Picnic Table BURG.L Chip. You’ll need to find the BURGL chip at the picnic table, then buy the corresponding recipe from BURGL at the Oak Lab.

7. Do candy pieces respawn in Grounded?

Yes, candy pieces like Mints and Sour Worms do respawn, but their respawn rate isn’t guaranteed to be daily. Keep checking known candy locations. You will know that the candy can respawn as the piece will be on the ground and not in a wrapper.

8. What does the Suspicious Ice Cap trinket do?

The Suspicious Ice Cap is a rare trinket that grants your attacks an additional 15 points of Fresh damage. However, it only has a 1% chance of dropping when breaking Ice Cap Mints, making it a difficult item to acquire. It does not work with ranged weapons.

9. Where else can I find Mints in Grounded?

Besides the Ice Caps Mint Container, you can find mints:

• Cup on the Shed’s deck
• Black Anthill Lab
• Sandbox Lab Outpost
• Holiday Tree during December
• Trash area

10. What are good early game weapons?

The Stinger Spear, Insect Axe, and Insect Hammer are all excellent early-game weapons to craft and upgrade. They’ll make your journey through Tier 2 and early Tier 3 content much easier.

11. What is the best armor in Grounded?

The “best” armor depends on your playstyle, but some top contenders include:

• Black Ox Armor: Balanced and versatile.
• Roly Poly Armor: High defense.
• Ladybug Armor: Provides healing.

12. Where can I find the best armor in Grounded?

Armor components are found by hunting the creatures that the armor is named after. For example, you will need to find and beat Ladybugs to create Ladybug armor.

13. What can I do with an empty mint container?

While not directly useful in the game, you can get creative in real life! Empty mint tins can be repurposed for various DIY projects, from mini dollhouses to portable paint palettes.

14. What materials do not respawn in Grounded?

Generally, Marble and Quartzite deposits do not respawn. However, recipes can be found to craft upgrade materials as you progress through the game.

15. What is the strongest bug in Grounded?

The Black Widow is widely considered the strongest bug in Grounded, posing a significant challenge to even well-equipped players.

Tips for the Aspiring Grounded Adventurer

• Explore thoroughly: The world of Grounded is full of secrets and hidden resources. Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path.
• Craft strategically: Choose your crafts wisely and prioritize tools and weapons that suit your playstyle.
• Learn enemy weaknesses: Understanding the weaknesses of different bugs can give you a significant advantage in combat.
• Stay hydrated and fed: Maintaining your hunger and thirst levels is crucial for survival.
• Engage with the community: The Grounded community is a valuable resource for tips, tricks, and advice. Check out forums and online resources to enhance your gameplay. You might even be able to contribute to projects with organizations such as the Games Learning Society who explore gaming in innovative and educational ways. Consider looking at the GamesLearningSociety.org website for more information.

By following these tips and mastering the art of opening that Mint Container, you’ll be well on your way to thriving in the miniaturized world of Grounded. Happy gaming!