Where is the First Lab in Grounded? A Comprehensive Guide

The first lab you’ll encounter in Grounded, the backyard survival adventure game, is the Oak Lab. It’s located inside the base of the giant Oak Tree. This monumental landmark dominates the landscape and serves as a crucial hub for understanding the mysteries of your miniaturization and progressing the main storyline.

Discovering the Oak Lab: Your Initial Objective

The Oak Lab is far more than just a location; it’s the starting point of your quest to return to normal size. You won’t stumble upon it randomly. The game actively guides you towards it through the initial questline. As you complete tasks given by BURG.L, the friendly robot, you’ll unlock the mission to investigate the Oak Lab.

Navigating to the Oak Tree

Finding the Oak Tree itself is straightforward. It’s easily the largest and most prominent feature in your immediate starting area. However, reaching the entrance of the Oak Lab inside the tree requires a bit more exploration.

• Start at the Mysterious Machine: After the initial cutscene, head towards the mysterious machine. This will set you on the right path.

• Follow the Cables: Pay close attention to the thick cables running along the ground. These lead directly to the Oak Tree and, eventually, to the lab entrance. These cables are essentially breadcrumbs dropped by the developers to keep you on track.

• Beware of Hazards: The journey isn’t without its dangers. You’ll encounter hostile insects like ants, mites, and possibly even larva. Be prepared to fight or evade them. Crafting basic armor and weapons will significantly increase your survivability.

Gaining Entry to the Lab

The entrance to the Oak Lab isn’t immediately obvious. Look for a gaping hole at the base of the Oak Tree, often obscured by roots and foliage. You may need to circle the tree to find it. This opening leads into a dimly lit tunnel that descends deeper into the earth.

• Bring a Torch: Darkness is your enemy in Grounded. A torch or other light source is absolutely essential for navigating the tunnel.

• Expect Spiders: This area is a hotspot for Orb Weaver spiders, which are significantly more dangerous than the starting insects. Exercise extreme caution, especially if you’re playing solo. Consider crafting better armor and a stronger weapon before venturing inside.

• Explore Carefully: Once inside the tunnel, proceed with caution. There are several paths, some leading to dead ends. Pay attention to your surroundings and loot any resources you find.

The Importance of the Oak Lab

The Oak Lab is a central hub in Grounded for several reasons:

• Story Progression: It contains crucial information about your predicament and provides clues about how to reverse the shrinking process.

• BURG.L Integration: You’ll find BURG.L inside, who serves as a quest giver, merchant, and source of valuable information.

• Blueprint Unlocks: The Oak Lab offers opportunities to unlock new blueprints, allowing you to craft better tools, weapons, and structures.

• Research Opportunities: The lab also provides access to research stations, enabling you to analyze materials found in the backyard and unlock even more crafting recipes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Oak Lab

Here are 15 frequently asked questions related to the Oak Lab in Grounded, designed to further your understanding and help you navigate this crucial location:

1. What is the exact location coordinates of the Oak Lab?

   While coordinates can fluctuate slightly based on game updates, a general range for the Oak Lab is around (280, -150). Using the in-game map can help pinpoint its precise location within the Oak Tree base. Remember to build a lean-to nearby to have a close respawn point!

2. What are the main dangers inside the Oak Lab?

   The primary dangers are Orb Weaver spiders. They are aggressive, relatively strong, and can inflict poison damage. Additionally, there might be other smaller insects lurking in the shadows.

3. What gear should I bring to the Oak Lab for the first time?

   At a minimum, bring a Stone Axe, Pebblet Dagger, a torch, and some basic armor (Acorn or Clover Armor). Healing items like Plant Fiber Bandages are also essential.

4. How do I defeat the Orb Weaver spiders in the Oak Lab?

   Dodging is crucial. Learn their attack patterns and roll to avoid their strikes. Using a shield can also be very effective. Consider using ranged weapons like the Pebblet Bow to attack from a safe distance. Use spear if close range is a must.

5. What is BURG.L, and why is he important?

   BURG.L is a robot found inside the Oak Lab. He is the main quest giver and provides valuable information about the story. He also acts as a shop, selling blueprints for raw science. Raw Science is a vital currency for progressing in Grounded.

6. What kind of blueprints can I unlock in the Oak Lab?

   BURG.L sells various blueprints, including those for crafting better tools, armor, and base-building components. He also sells blueprints that unlock recipes for new meals.

7. How do I use the Research Station in the Oak Lab?

   Interact with the Research Station and select the materials you want to analyze. Analyzing materials unlocks new crafting recipes. You need Raw Science to power the research.

8. Can I build a base inside the Oak Lab?

   Yes, you can build a base inside the Oak Lab, but space is limited. It’s more practical to build a base nearby and use the lab as a central hub. Be mindful of the spiders that respawn as well.

9. What happens if I die inside the Oak Lab?

   You will respawn at your last activated respawn point (lean-to, bed, etc.). You’ll need to retrieve your backpack from where you died, containing your lost items.

10. Is there a way to make the Oak Lab safer?

    Clearing out the spiders and strategically placing torches can make the lab safer. Building walls and traps can also help defend against respawning enemies.

11. What is Raw Science, and how do I get it?

    Raw Science is a form of currency used to purchase blueprints from BURG.L. You can obtain it by completing quests, finding special locations, and analyzing materials at the Research Station.

12. What is the significance of the giant Oak Tree itself?

    The Oak Tree is not only the location of the first lab but also a vital ecosystem containing various resources and creatures. Exploring the tree fully is crucial for progressing in the game.

13. Are there any hidden areas or secrets within the Oak Lab?

    Yes, there are some hidden areas and secrets. Explore thoroughly and look for hidden passages or interactable objects. Pay special attention to areas that seem out of place.

14. Can I access the Oak Lab immediately after starting the game?

    While you can technically find the Oak Tree early on, accessing the lab is best done after completing some initial quests from BURG.L, as this will provide you with the necessary tools and knowledge.

15. Is the Oak Lab the only lab in Grounded?

    No, the Oak Lab is just the first. You will discover other labs as you progress through the game, each containing new challenges and discoveries. The story will bring you to each of these, but exploration might allow you to discover them sooner!

The Oak Lab is your gateway into the larger mysteries of Grounded. Prepare yourself, venture into the unknown, and unravel the secrets hidden within the depths of the backyard. Good luck, survivor!