The Reclamation Cycle

A Post-Apocalyptic Logistics & Restoration Simulation

The greatest challenge isn't surviving the collapse, but choosing the foundational principles—modern steel or sustainable wood—of the civilization you rebuild.

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The Core Conflict: Two Paths to a New World

Decades after a world-ending event, humanity stands at a crossroads. Will you rebuild the remnants of the old world with its complex efficiency, or forge a new, sustainable future from local resources?

Comparison of Old World Restoration vs. New World Adaptation structures.

The stark choice: efficient but fragile old world technology vs. resilient, sustainable new world designs.

Old World Path (Restoration)

Focuses on restoring high-efficiency, dense **modern infrastructure** using salvaged components. This path promises rapid growth and automation but demands constant maintenance and relies on scarce, non-renewable specialized parts.

New World Path (Adaptation)

Emphasizes low-tech, self-sustaining structures using **local, renewable materials**. This path builds resilience and sustainability but often results in lower efficiency and population density.

The Reclamation Loop

At the heart of both paths is a deep, multi-tiered **recycling and upcycling mechanic**. Every piece of old-world junk, from a rusted rebar to a wrecked car, has potential. Disassemble, refine, and re-forge it into the materials needed for your chosen future.

Dynamic Scenarios: Replayability Redefined

Three distinct world-ending scenarios fundamentally alter resource availability, available threats, and logistical challenges, ensuring every playthrough is unique.

The Contamination (Fungal/Viral Collapse)

Image depicting the Contamination Scenario with isolation and biohazard efforts.

The struggle is against **Disease, Spores, and Tainted Resources**. Focus shifts to Sanitation, Filtration, and organized defense within sealed environments.

The Desertion (Climate/Drought Collapse)

Image depicting the Desertion Scenario with cracked earth and desperate water collection in a European city.

A world scarred by **Water Scarcity, Extreme Heat, and Dust**. Logistics must prioritize cooling, efficient irrigation, and resilient, insulated structures in familiar cityscapes.

The Silence (Technological Collapse)

Image depicting the Silence Scenario with steam power and mechanical reliance in an old European city.

All advanced electronics are dead, forever. Rebuild with **Mechanical Ingenuity, Steam Power, and Manual Labor**, where skilled craftspeople are the most valuable resource.

Behind the Vision: The Game Design Document

Dive deep into the mechanics, systems, and lore that drive The Reclamation Cycle. This project is built on transparent, detailed design documentation.

Image depicting game design blueprints and documents.

Explore the full Game Design Document Outline, detailed Tech Trees, and individual Scenario specifications directly on our GitHub repository.

Read the GDD Outline See the Tech Tree