Rust’s latest update has introduced a major shift in how players progress through the game’s crafting system. The need for scrap to craft higher-tier workbenches (T2 and T3) has been completely removed. Instead, these workbenches are now integrated into the tech tree, requiring players to unlock them before they can be crafted.
What Changed?
Previously, players had to gather a significant amount of scrap to craft Workbench Tier 2 (T2) and Tier 3 (T3). Now, the workbenches themselves are locked behind the tech tree, meaning players must progress through the tree by investing scrap into blueprints before they can gain access to crafting these essential stations.
Once unlocked, workbenches still require standard crafting materials but no additional scrap. This change shifts the game’s progression focus and alters the traditional approach to tech advancement in Rust.
Pros of the Workbench Change
- More Structured Progression: By making workbenches part of the tech tree, players are encouraged to follow a more structured tech path rather than simply hoarding scrap to skip ahead.
- Balanced Economy: The update prevents players from rushing to craft high-tier workbenches too quickly, promoting a more balanced and gradual progression.
- Encourages Exploration: Since scrap is still required to progress through the tech tree, players are incentivized to explore and loot more actively rather than just farming specific materials for workbenches.
- More Strategic Decision-Making: Players must now plan their scrap spending carefully, weighing the benefits of unlocking weapons, tools, or workbenches at different stages of their gameplay.
Cons of the Workbench Change
- Slower Advancement for Solo Players: The change makes progression more challenging for solo players who now need to invest more scrap in unlocking workbenches instead of immediately crafting them.
- Higher Scrap Demand: Since scrap is still needed for unlocking workbenches in the tech tree, players may feel more pressure to farm scrap, leading to increased competition in loot-heavy areas.
- Less Flexibility: Previously, players who found a workbench in a raid or a trade could immediately use it to progress. Now, they are forced to unlock it through the tech tree first, reducing options for improvisation.
Community Reaction
The Rust community is split on the change. Some players appreciate the increased structure, while others feel that it adds unnecessary grind, especially for solo or small-group players. This update marks another attempt by Facepunch Studios to refine Rust’s balance between progression and survival.
As players adapt to this new system, it remains to be seen whether additional tweaks will be made in response to community feedback. For now, Rust’s tech tree just became a more critical part of the survival experience.
