The Gatherer’s Station is a late-game module that passively generates materials on a timer, even when your train isn’t moving. It occupies an entire platform (four floor tiles), runs without water or fuel, and stores its output safely in its own container so nothing despawns. Unlike a Lootcatcher, it requires a Rofleemo worker to operate.
Unlock Gatherer’s Station (Phase 17 research)
The technology to build a Gatherer’s Station appears in Phase 17 of the research tree. It costs 70 Research Points and consumes the following items to complete the unlock:
- 2x Sturdy Wood
- 2x Steel Bar
- 1x Brass Wire
- 1x Damper
Once the research is complete, you gain the ability to add the module to your train at a Depot.
Build location and footprint (Depot-only)
You don’t place a Gatherer’s Station from the on-train build menu. It is a train module and must be added at a Depot via the Building Console. Because it fills a whole platform, make sure you have a free platform segment available before attempting to add it.
Module build recipe at the Depot:
- 2x Sturdy Wood
- 2x Sturdy Bolts
- 1x Brass Wire
- 1x Damper
How the Gatherer’s Station works
- Purpose: Generates resources on its own rather than grabbing debris from the void. This includes materials that Lootcatchers won’t collect.
- Cycle: One output cycle every 40 seconds.
- Inputs: None. It does not consume water or other consumables to run.
- Storage: Outputs go into the station’s container and do not decay over time.
- Cap behavior: The station has an internal limit. When its container reaches capacity, generation pauses until you empty it.
- Worker: Requires a Rofleemo to operate. Assign one to the station. A Rofleemo with suitable perks can affect the station’s working speed.
Lootcatcher’s Nest vs. Gatherer’s Station
| Aspect | Lootcatcher’s Nest | Gatherer’s Station |
|---|---|---|
| Space | ¼ floor tile | 1 full platform (4 tiles) |
| Cycle time | 30 seconds | 40 seconds |
| Input needed | Requires water | No inputs required |
| Resource scope | Basic debris from the void | Generates resources, including more advanced types |
| Worker requirement | No | Yes (Rofleemo) |
Practical setup checklist
- Finish Phase 17 research for Gatherer’s Station (70 Research Points + materials).
- Go to a Depot and use the Building Console to add the module.
- Confirm a free platform exists; the station won’t fit on a partial tile.
- Assign a Rofleemo to the station so it can run.
- Empty its container periodically to avoid hitting the resource cap.
Once installed, the Gatherer’s Station is best treated as a steady background feed of materials. It pairs well with Lootcatchers: keep catchers for fast, water-fed debris collection in motion, and let the Gatherer steadily produce items you’ll need for mid- and late-game crafting regardless of whether the train is moving.
