A good RimWorld defense layout is the difference between losing a colony and losing nothing. Here's how to design defenses for the current 1.6 / Odyssey version.
Core Defense Principles
- Funnel the enemy: walls force raiders through one choke point (kill box).
- Cover beats numbers: sandbags, embrasures and walls give your shooters a 50%+ edge.
- Turrets absorb: autocannons and mini-turrets tank fire while pawns shoot from cover.
- Multiple layers: a perimeter wall plus interior bunkers saves the colony when one line falls.
Kill Box Design (proven layout)
| Element | How many | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Perimeter wall (2-thick) | Surrounds base | Slows raids, funnels to entrance |
| Entrance corridor | 1 wide, 10-15 long | Forces single-file approach |
| Sandbag line at exit | 3-5 rows | Cover for your shooters |
| Mini-turrets | 4-6 along corridor | Suppress while pawns fire |
| Interior bunker | 1 behind sandbags | Retreat position |
Defense FAQ
Do kill boxes still work in 1.6?
Yes — raiders still path through openings. Keep the entrance clear of doors so they don't break walls instead.
How much power do turrets need?
Mini-turrets draw ~75W each, autocannons ~400W — budget your grid with a dedicated defense circuit.
Size your raid threat with the Raid Threat Calculator and power with Power Load Calculator.