Subterra is a distinctive adventure game that diverges from familiar mechanics found in titles like Steam World Dig. For newcomers, navigating its rich mines and diverse biomes can overwhelm. To aid you on your journey, we’ve crafted an accessible yet comprehensive guide designed to facilitate your exploration. If you’re just beginning in Subterra, this Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Subterra will provide all the essential insights you need.
Upgrading Your Backpack and Pickaxe in Subterra

Your top priority in Subterra should be upgrading your Backpack and Pickaxe. Each time you decide to pursue an upgrade, always pin the required materials by speaking to both the Backpack Upgrade and Blacksmith NPCs. This approach not only streamlines your upgrade process but also indicates the depths of the mines you need to explore further.
Mastering Fast Travel in Subterra

A noteworthy feature in Subterra is the ability to swiftly return to the surface and descend back into the mines. To do this, simply choose the “To Surface” option located above your health bar in the bottom left corner. Alternatively, you can use the “To Mines” option on the surface; however, be aware that this won’t transport you to your exact previous location in the mines. As you progress, you’ll unlock portals for even quicker travel options.
Ranking Up in Subterra

Ranking up in Subterra functions similarly to “prestiging” in other games. Each rank comes with a level cap that must be reached before you can progress. Upon ranking up, your level resets to 1, rewards you with some Chrono Shards, and slightly increases your level cap. Additionally, for every two levels you achieve, you gain an extra ability slot.
Your level cap is defined as Current Rank x 5. With the maximum rank set at 11, each reset may feel frustrating, yet all items are retained, allowing you to become more powerful over time. Stay persistent!
Collecting Chrono Shards in Subterra

Chrono Shards serve as a premium currency in Subterra. While you can purchase them with Robux, you can also earn a significant amount through gameplay. Here’s how to collect them:
- Ranking up – Gain quantities with each rank-up.
- Completing Daily Quests and specific regular quests.
- Achieving certain accomplishments.
- Redeeming special codes.
- Receiving Daily Login bonuses.
- Finding them in chests.
Chrono Shards are essential for drawing new ability cards from the Chrono Crystal, which grant new passive abilities.
Where to Find Copper, Tin, Iron, Silver, Gold, and Platinum in Subterra

If you’re struggling to locate specific raw ores for upgrades, it’s likely that you need to delve deeper. The ores are typically found in the following order:
Copper – Tin – Iron – Silver – Gold – Platinum – Cobalt – Chromium – Titanium – Wolframite
However, if you’re exploring deep and encounter Gold but are aiming for Iron, it indicates you’ve gone too far down. Retreat to find what you need.
How to Collect Gems, Shards, and Crystals in Subterra

In contrast to raw ore, Gems, Shards, and Crystals are quite rare and can be challenging to find. They have the potential to spawn anywhere across the map, though the most effective way to retrieve them is through opening chests. This method has proven more fruitful than searching via digging.
Essential Items to Carry in Subterra

Your go-to item should always be the Wooden Ladder. Countless players, including ourselves, have regrettably discovered treasures but were unable to access them due to a lack of ladders. It’s wise to always keep about 5 to 10 Wooden Ladders on hand for unexpected situations.
Understanding the Collapse Mechanic in Subterra

In Subterra, the Collapse signifies a reset of the entire mine, compelling players to excavate their way back down. As a multiplayer title, miners can deplete numerous blocks, and the Collapse is a crucial feature to refresh the environment, resetting all blocks, chests, and other items.
Enjoy your time digging and advancing in Subterra. To stay informed on the game’s progression, make sure to check out the Subterra Trello and Discord channels.
Frequently Asked Questions About Subterra
How do I upgrade my Pickaxe in Subterra?
To upgrade your Pickaxe in Subterra, visit the Blacksmith NPC and gather the required materials needed for the upgrade. Keeping your resources pinned will help you manage what you need.
What happens during the Collapse in Subterra?
The Collapse triggers a complete reset of the mine, forcing all players to start from the top and dig down again. This mechanic maintains a fresh mining experience.
Where can I find different ores in Subterra?
Ores can be found at different depths, ranging from Copper at shallow levels to Platinum and beyond at deeper levels. If you can’t find an ore, it typically means you need to dig deeper.
How can I collect Chrono Shards in Subterra?
Chrono Shards can be earned by ranking up, completing missions, achieving tasks, redeeming codes, and finding them in chests.