zaro

Can you landfill lava in Factorio?

Published in Factorio Terrain 2 mins read

No, you cannot landfill lava in Factorio. Unlike bodies of water, which can be filled in using landfill to create new buildable terrain, lava lakes require a different, specific item for expansion: foundations.

Understanding Terrain Expansion in Factorio

In Factorio, expanding your factory often involves reclaiming territory from natural obstacles. While water is a common barrier, lava presents a unique challenge with its own specific mechanics for terraforming.

  • Water Bodies: Standard water tiles are readily filled using landfill. This item is a staple for players looking to expand their base over rivers, lakes, or oceans.
  • Lava Lakes: Lava functions differently. It cannot be filled by landfill. Instead, you must use foundations. This mechanic is similar to how "oil oceans" are handled on the planet Fulgora, which also require foundations for reclamation, highlighting that lava is treated as a specialized terrain type.

Why the Distinction?

The design choice to differentiate between water and lava filling likely adds another layer of strategic depth and resource management. Foundations may require different materials or processing compared to landfill, influencing your base layout and resource priorities.

Practical Implications for Your Factory

When planning your Factorio expansion, keep the following in mind:

  • Resource Management: Ensure you are producing or have access to the correct item for the terrain you wish to reclaim. Don't waste landfill attempting to fill lava.
  • Strategic Planning: If your starting area is rich in lava, prioritize establishing a production chain for foundations early on if you intend to expand into those areas.
  • Terrain Types Overview:
Terrain Type Item Required to Fill Notes
Water Landfill Most common method for creating buildable land over water.
Lava Foundations Specific item needed; behaves similarly to "oil oceans" on Fulgora.

By understanding these distinctions, you can efficiently plan your base expansion and navigate the challenging landscapes of Factorio. For more detailed information on specific game mechanics, consult the Official Factorio Wiki.