All Grounded 2 Missing Optical Disk Locations: A Comprehensive Guide
The world of “Grounded,” the survival adventure game shrunk down to ant-size, is fraught with peril and mysteries. One such mystery in Grounded 2, revolves around the elusive Ominent optical disks. These disks contain crucial information about the backstory of the game, the Ominent corporation, and the experiments that led to your miniaturization. Finding all of them unlocks crucial lore elements and provides deeper insights into the game’s narrative. This guide aims to provide a definitive, comprehensive walkthrough to locating all the currently known missing Ominent optical disks in Grounded 2’s Brookhollow and surrounding areas. We will provide detailed directions, visuals cues and supplemental information, enabling you to efficiently collect all the disks and piece together the complete story.
Understanding the Ominent Optical Disks and Their Significance
Before diving into the locations, it’s important to understand what these optical disks are and why they are important. The disks essentially act as collectible lore items, each containing audio logs, research data, and other fragmented pieces of information. Ominent, the seemingly benevolent corporation in charge of the shrinking experiment, hides a darker side, revealed through the data found on these disks. By collecting all the disks, you will unravel the secrets of Brookhollow, discover hidden experiments, and understand the motivations of the key figures involved. In terms of gameplay, finding the disks grants you access to additional clues to complete the game.
The Importance of Preparation Before Searching for the Disks
Before you start your search, it is wise to ensure that you are adequately equipped. Several disks are located in areas that may require specific tools or defenses.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Axe: An axe is crucial for clearing pathways and chopping down obstacles. Higher-tier axes will obviously make this task more efficient.
- Hammer: A hammer is necessary for repairing broken structures and interacting with certain environmental features.
- Armor: Adequate armor will protect you from the various insects and environmental hazards you will encounter in Brookhollow.
- Weapons: Prepare yourself with sufficient weaponry for defense. Some areas are infested with aggressive insects.
- Healing Items: Pack plenty of healing items like bandages and smoothies to recover from any damage you may sustain during your exploration.
- Water and Food: Staying hydrated and well-fed will prevent stamina depletion and allow you to traverse long distances without slowing down.
- Torch: A torch or other light source is essential for navigating dark or underground areas.
Navigational Aids
- Map: Use the in-game map to mark locations and plan your routes.
- Compass: A compass will help you maintain your orientation and travel in the correct direction.
- Markers: Place markers at key locations to help you retrace your steps or return to specific areas later.
Detailed Locations of All Missing Optical Disks
Now, let’s get to the heart of the matter – the precise locations of the missing Ominent optical disks. We will break down each location with clear instructions, visual cues, and potential hazards to watch out for.
Disk 1: The Abandoned Research Outpost
- Location: This disk is found within the Abandoned Research Outpost, located near the eastern edge of Brookhollow.
- Directions: Head east from the starting location until you reach a dilapidated structure covered in vines. The entrance is partially blocked by debris. Clear the debris using your axe or hammer.
- Specific Location Within the Outpost: Once inside, navigate through the maze-like corridors. The disk is located on a table in a small room on the upper level. Look for a dimly lit room filled with broken equipment and scattered papers.
- Hazards: Be cautious of spider webs and potential spider spawns within the outpost. Bring torches or other light sources to illuminate the dark corridors.
- Visual Cues: Look for the Ominent logo on the wall near the entrance to confirm you’re in the right place. The room containing the disk has a distinctive green glow emanating from a broken monitor.
Disk 2: The Flooded Basement of Brookhollow Labs
- Location: Deep within the Flooded Basement of Brookhollow Labs, located at the center of the map.
- Directions: Locate the main entrance to Brookhollow Labs. Descend into the flooded basement. The area is heavily submerged, requiring you to swim through several sections.
- Specific Location Within the Basement: The disk is situated on top of a metal shelf in a submerged storage room. Look for a room filled with floating debris and partially submerged boxes.
- Hazards: Be wary of electric shocks in the water. Avoid contact with exposed wires. Air pockets are limited, so monitor your oxygen levels. You might also find some aggressive water-dwelling insects.
- Visual Cues: The shelf is near a leaking pipe, which creates a constant stream of bubbles. The room is dimly lit by a single flickering light bulb.
Disk 3: Hidden in the Depths of the Ant Hill
- Location: This disk is nestled deep within the Ant Hill, a dangerous and labyrinthine location in the southwest corner of the map.
- Directions: Find the main entrance to the Ant Hill. Prepare for a challenging descent, as the tunnels are filled with aggressive ants and other insects. Follow the main tunnels downward, avoiding the side passages to avoid getting lost.
- Specific Location Within the Ant Hill: The disk is located in a queen’s chamber, identifiable by its larger size and the presence of several ant larvae. The disk is sitting on a small pedestal near the queen’s resting place.
- Hazards: This area is heavily guarded by ants. Bring strong weapons and armor. Be careful not to disturb the queen, as she is highly aggressive.
- Visual Cues: Look for the queen’s pheromone trail, which leads directly to the chamber. The pedestal is made of hardened mud and is surrounded by ant eggs.
Disk 4: Inside the Secret Lab Under the Oak Tree
- Location: Located in a Secret Lab hidden beneath the roots of the Oak Tree in the central region of the map.
- Directions: Find the Oak Tree. Search around the base of the tree for a concealed entrance, often hidden by thick foliage or loose dirt.
- Specific Location Within the Lab: Once inside, navigate through the winding corridors of the lab. The disk is located in the main control room, near a large console displaying complex data.
- Hazards: The lab is protected by automated defense systems, including turrets and laser grids. Be prepared to disable or avoid these defenses.
- Visual Cues: The entrance is marked by a faint Ominent logo etched into the tree root. The control room is filled with blinking lights and monitors, creating a distinct technological ambiance.
Disk 5: In the Spider’s Lair
- Location: This disk is found deep within a Spider’s Lair, located in the western area of the map, particularly common around rocky outcroppings.
- Directions: Locate the entrance to the Spider’s Lair. Be extremely cautious, as these lairs are heavily guarded by spiders, and the entrance is often obscured by webs.
- Specific Location Within the Lair: The disk is located within the center of the lair, often on a pile of silk.
- Hazards: Be extremely cautious of spiders and spider webs.
- Visual Cues: Webs and Spiders
Disk 6: The Hidden Room in the Hedge Maze
- Location: This disk is located in a hidden room inside the Hedge Maze in the northern region of the map.
- Directions: Navigate the Hedge Maze, a complex labyrinth of overgrown hedges. The entrance to the hidden room is concealed behind a false wall near the center of the maze.
- Specific Location Within the Hidden Room: The disk is placed on a desk, next to a broken radio.
- Hazards: Getting lost in the maze, spiders
- Visual Cues: Look for a section of the hedge that appears slightly different, with a less dense foliage or a subtle gap.
Disk 7: The Bird Bath Research Station
- Location: Located at the abandoned research station within the Bird Bath in the southeast part of the map.
- Directions: Go to the Bird Bath and find the damaged research station there.
- Specific Location Within the Research Station: Inside the research station, on the desk is the disk.
- Hazards: Bird dropping and mites
- Visual Cues: Damage research station.
Disk 8: The Trash Pile in the Backyard
- Location: Located in the Trash Pile within the Backyard.
- Directions: Locate the Trash Pile in the Backyard.
- Specific Location Within the Trash Pile: The disk can be found among the trash.
- Hazards: Flies, Mosquitos and Stink Bugs
- Visual Cues: Just Trash
Strategies for Efficient Disk Collection
Collecting all the optical disks can be a time-consuming and challenging task. Here are some strategies to help you optimize your search:
Prioritize Locations Based on Difficulty
Start with the easier-to-access disks and gradually move towards the more challenging locations. This will allow you to build your skills and equipment before facing tougher enemies and environments.
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
If possible, team up with other players to explore the world together. Having multiple players can significantly increase your chances of survival and speed up the search process.
Use Map Markers Effectively
Mark the locations of discovered disks and areas you still need to explore. This will help you stay organized and avoid wasting time revisiting the same areas.
Listen to the Audio Logs
Take the time to listen to the audio logs on each disk. They contain valuable clues and insights that can aid you in finding the other disks and unraveling the game’s mysteries.
Explore Thoroughly
Don’t just rush through the locations. Take your time to explore every nook and cranny. Hidden passages, secret rooms, and other surprises may be lurking around every corner.
Conclusion: Unraveling the Mystery of Brookhollow
By following this comprehensive guide, you will be well-equipped to find all the missing Ominent optical disks in Grounded 2’s Brookhollow. Each disk you discover will bring you closer to unraveling the mysteries of Ominent, understanding the secrets of the shrinking experiment, and piecing together the complete story of the game. So, gather your equipment, prepare for adventure, and embark on your quest to uncover the truth hidden within the depths of Brookhollow. Remember to stay safe, explore thoroughly, and always be prepared for the unexpected. Good luck, and happy hunting!