Cheats & Secrets
Cheats & Secrets
RimWorld does not include traditional cheat codes or unlock codes. However, the game provides powerful Developer Mode and Debug Actions intended for testing and modding, which can be used as "cheats." Additionally, there are several hidden features and Easter eggs.
Developer Mode
To enable Developer Mode, edit the game's settings file or use the in-game menu:
- On PC (Steam/GOG/Windows): Open the game's configuration folder (usually `%AppData%/../LocalLow/Ludeon Studios/RimWorld by Ludeon Studios/Config/`), find `Options.txt`, set `customDifficulty=false` and enable developer mode by adding `devMode=true`. Restart the game.
- In-Game: Go to Menu > Options > Tick "Developer Mode" (if visible). Alternatively, press `Ctrl+F12` to open debug console.
- God Mode: Toggle pawn invincibility, instant building, no resource cost.
- Pawn List: Spawn any character, animal, or item.
- Incident Tool: Force events (raid, trader, etc.).
- View Settings: Change world parameters.
- And more... See table below.
Once enabled, a new toolbar appears at the top with many debug tools. Use with caution – they can break your save.
Debug Actions Toolbar
The debug toolbar includes icons for:
| Icon | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| ! | God Mode | Enables invincibility, instant construction, free building. |
| A | Spawn Thing | Spawn any item or animal from a list. |
| B | Spawn Pawn | Spawn any colonist, enemy, or humanoid. |
| C | Incident | Trigger any incident: raid, meteor, gift, etc. |
Debug Console Commands
With Developer Mode on, you can press ` (backtick) or ~ to open the debug console. Type commands; some useful ones:
- `god` – Toggle god mode.
- `killall` – Instantly kills all non-player pawns (use with caution).
- `spawn thing` – Opens spawn menu.
- `weather clear` / `weather rainy` etc. – Change weather instantly.
- `timetool` – Adjust game speed, time.
- `researchall` – Unlock all research instantly (must have researched at least one tech already).
- `levelup <skill> <amount>` – Increase a pawn's skill (e.g., `levelup shooting 10`).
- `damage` – Deal damage to selected pawn.
- Scenario World: In the scenario editor, there is a hidden option to start on a world that is a perfect sphere (debug feature). Not normally accessible.
- AI Storyteller Randy Random: While not hidden, his randomness is often considered a "secret" to chaotic fun.
- Infinite Chemreactor: A rare event where a crashed ship part can be used indefinitely for components (arguably a hidden mechanic).
- Animal pulser: Hidden device that can be found from ancient dangers.
- A Tree Named... Occasionally, a tree named "A Tree" will appear. If destroyed, the pawn that did so gets a mood debuff "I kind of liked that tree."
- Friendly Fire: A hidden achievement (not listed) for having a colonist killed by friendly fire.
- Crashed Ship: The crashed ship part that begins the game is a nod to the classic sci-fi trope.
- Hats on Humans: The infamous "human leather" economy is a dark Easter egg referencing the game's community.
- Reference to other games: Items like the "Muffalo" are a play on "buffalo."
- Developer's names: Some backstories reference Ludeon team members.
- Healing Serum: Can be obtained from traders or quests – a rare resource.
- Resurrector Mech Serum: Brings a colonist back to life.
- Persona Weapons (Royalty DLC): Hidden psychic weapons with unique properties.
- Anima Trees (Royalty DLC): Hidden spiritual focus for tribal colonists.
Hidden Features
Easter Eggs
RimWorld is known for subtle references:
Exploit-Safe Secrets
These are hidden but legitimate mechanics:
Note on "Cheat Codes"
There are no secret button combos or built-in cheat codes. The only way to "cheat" is via Developer Mode. Mods like "Cheat Tools" or "Character Editor" offer more user-friendly ways to cheat, but these are not official.
This covers all official secrets and hidden content. Use responsibly.