Rust’s vast and unpredictable world offers adventures both above and below the surface. One of the game’s most exciting additions, the Underwater Labs, brings a unique combination of risk and reward. This guide covers everything you need to know about these underwater complexes—from finding them to navigating their challenges and reaping their rewards.

Finding the Underwater Labs

Spotting the Underwater Labs on your map is straightforward, but getting there is a different matter. First, you’ll need the right gear. A diving tank and fins are essential for survival underwater. You can find diving tanks in loot or buy them for 35 Scrap at fishing villages. Fins, which improve your swimming speed, can also be looted or obtained with a fishing rod and bait under level 2.5. Alternatively, you can opt for a submarine. Single-person subs cost 200 Scrap, while two-person models go for 300 Scrap, both available at fishing villages.

Gaining Entry to the Labs

Once you’ve arrived, you’ll find two entry points: the human-sized pool and the larger moon pool. Submarine users will need to use the moon pool, identifiable by red dots on the sub’s sonar and featuring a wide opening for easy access. Scuba divers can also use the moon pool, which has a ladder for convenient entry. The smaller pool offers a safer option, but watch out for lurking sharks!

Inside the Labs: Dangers and Rewards

Inside, expect to face armed scientists who are more dangerous than the tunnel dwellers. These foes wield M92 pistols or MP5 SMGs and have 125 health points. They can also open doors, so plan your moves carefully. On average, about seven scientists are scattered throughout the randomly generated labs. Be prepared for potential encounters with other players as well, as PvP is common in these areas.

The rewards, however, are worth the risk. The labs feature 11 different types of loot boxes, ranging from elite crates to medical and tech supplies, ensuring a bounty of valuable resources for daring explorers.

Solving the Puzzles

The Underwater Labs contain various puzzles, each offering different rewards. Here’s a breakdown:

Puzzle One (No Keycard)

Look for a room near a ladder with red-buttoned doors. Insert a fuse into the fuse box and press the button to access the room. Inside, you’ll find body parts, two medical crates, and food crates.

Puzzle Two (Green Keycard)

Locate the powered module room to access green puzzle rooms. These areas include sleeping bunks, tables, a boombox, a large crate, and food crates.

Puzzle Three (Blue Keycard)

Navigate through four rooms:

• A ladder module with a computer station, crates, and boxes.
• A central room with a jail cell and various crates.
• A corner room requiring multiple keycards and a fuse, offering generators, a tier 3 workbench, and crates.
• A room near the powered keycard door containing a desk, bunk bed, and crates.

Puzzle Four (Red Keycard)

This involves two modules:

1. The first requires a blue keycard, a red keycard, and two fuses, leading to elite crates.
2. The second needs one fuse and a red keycard, revealing more boxes and elite crates.

Final Thoughts

Rust’s Underwater Labs deliver a thrilling mix of challenges and rewards. With this guide, you’re better prepared to dive into these submerged strongholds. Remember, success hinges on preparation, strategy, and attention to detail.

For more tips, join our community on Discord, explore related posts, or hop onto our Rust servers. Adventure is just beneath the surface—dive in and conquer!

Note: This guide is based on current game mechanics and may change with updates. Stay informed to adapt your strategies.