RimWorld, the beloved sci-fi colony simulator by Ludeon Studios, offers countless layers of depth, from survival mechanics to intricate faction interactions. Among the many ancient relics and technologies scattered across the planet, one of the most intriguing discoveries you can make is the Ancient Exostrider. This mysterious piece of old-world machinery appears early in some maps or via special events, and while at first glance it seems like just another ruined object, the Ancient Exostrider holds secrets and potential that can shift the balance of your colony’s survival.
In this guide, we will explore everything you need to know about the RimWorld Ancient Exostrider—what it is, where to find it, how to repair it, and most importantly, how to make the most of it. Whether you’re a veteran RimWorld player or a curious newcomer, understanding the value and mechanics of the Exostrider can make your colony more resilient, technologically advanced, and narratively rich.
What Is the Ancient Exostrider in RimWorld?
The Ancient Exostrider is part of a larger set of ancient, derelict machinery sometimes found in RimWorld maps, especially when starting a game using the Ancient Complex or Crashlanded scenario types. Typically discovered in pieces—such as the Exostrider Midsection, Left Pod, or Right Pod—this relic is often surrounded by rubble and other ancient technological debris. Many players overlook it as non-functional scenery, but with the right resources and strategy, it can be repaired and activated for valuable rewards or critical story progression.
In some versions or mods of RimWorld, the Exostrider plays a vital role in endgame quests, often tied to escaping the planet or unlocking rare tech. It usually requires specific components like advanced components, plasteel, and skilled colonists to repair. Depending on your mod list, you may also need items like AI cores, mechanoid parts, or special quest items.
How to Find and Identify Ancient Exostrider Parts
When scouting the map during the early game, always pay attention to areas with ancient ruins, crashed ship segments, or derelict complexes. The Ancient Exostrider Parts are typically large, rusted, and may resemble chunks of a spacecraft. You may find:
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Exostrider Midsection – often the central structure with wiring or exposed machinery
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Left and Right Pods – positioned symmetrically, sometimes guarded by mechanoids
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Exostrider Terminal – used to activate or interact with the full structure
Once you’ve located these structures, use your colonists to inspect, clear debris, and plan for eventual repair. You might trigger events or get ambushed by ancient mechanoids, so come prepared.
How to Repair the Ancient Exostrider: Step-by-Step
Repairing the Ancient Exostrider in RimWorld is no small task. Here’s how you can systematically go about it:
1. Secure the Area
Before doing anything, make sure the location is clear of threats. Use turrets, traps, and well-armed colonists to eliminate mechanoid defenders or other hostiles.
2. Assess Damage and Components Needed
Click on the Exostrider pieces to view the required components. Common items needed include:
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Plasteel
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Advanced Components
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Steel
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High Crafting Skill Colonists
3. Gather Resources
You may need to trade with factions, launch mining operations, or disassemble other machinery to gather these rare items. Keep in mind that crafting advanced components requires a high-tech workshop setup.
4. Assign a Skilled Builder
Only colonists with high construction and crafting skills should attempt repairs. Use inspiration boosts or install bionics to improve performance.
5. Start Repairs and Monitor Progress
Repairs can take several in-game days. Keep colonists well-fed, safe from raids, and sheltered to avoid breakdowns. You can also install defensive structures nearby to fend off attackers during this vulnerable period.
Why Use the Ancient Exostrider? Benefits and Lore
Once repaired, the Ancient Exostrider can offer several benefits:
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Escape Shuttle Launch: In some mods or quests, it becomes part of your endgame goal to leave the planet.
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Rare Resources: Some versions offer access to exotic materials or AI tech.
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Mechanoid Control: The repaired structure may allow partial control over dormant mechanoids nearby.
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Lore Discovery: Activating the Exostrider may unlock ancient logs, storylines, or world-building details.
RimWorld thrives on storytelling, and the Ancient Exostrider acts as a narrative device to connect your colony to the forgotten technologies of a lost civilization.
Conclusion
The RimWorld Ancient Exostrider is more than just a chunk of old tech on your map—it’s a symbol of humanity’s forgotten past and a gateway to powerful future possibilities. Whether you seek to escape the planet, harness old-world technology, or deepen your colony’s lore, the Exostrider stands as a challenging but rewarding endeavor. Don’t overlook it the next time you start a new game—it may just be the key to your colony’s survival or escape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
❓ What is the purpose of the Ancient Exostrider in RimWorld?
The Ancient Exostrider can be part of escape missions, tech quests, or mod-based endgame events. It offers resources, lore, or even escape opportunities.
❓ Where can I find Exostrider parts on the map?
Look for ancient ruins or crashed spacecrafts. The midsection and pods are usually in open areas or embedded in ancient complexes.
❓ Can I repair the Exostrider in vanilla RimWorld?
Not fully. In the base game, the Exostrider is often decorative unless mods are used. Mods like Vanilla Expanded, Save Our Ship, or Biotech give it expanded functions.
❓ Is the Ancient Exostrider dangerous?
Yes. Mechanoid guardians or triggering its activation can cause attacks. Approach with caution and preparation.
❓ What mods expand the Exostrider functionality?
Popular mods include Vanilla Expanded – Ancients, SOS2, and Ancient Architect, which expand lore, interactions, and gameplay with ancient tech.
