RimWorld system requirements

Can I run RimWorld?

To run the RimWorld requirements for PC, you will need an Intel HD 3000 GPU, an Intel Core 2 Duo E8400 processor, 4GB of RAM, and 1GB of HD space.

RimWorld is a phenomenal colony simulator with a number of complex systems to master. Despite the underlying complexity of RimWorld, you don't actually need a powerful PC to run the game. However, bear in mind that the RimWorld PC requirements might not appear intimidating, but you will eventually need a beast of a computer once your colony has grown to a large enough level. Much like Minecraft, RimWorld's performance can become incredibly demanding.

But, in order to meet the RimWorld minimum requirements, all you need is an Intel HD 3000 GPU, an Intel Core 2 Duo E8400 CPU, and 4GB of RAM. This will get you up and running on RimWorld without any issues. However, if you plan on playing the game at its best, with a colony wealthy enough to see raids of 20 plus enemies, you'll need a much beefier machine. 

There are no higher official RimWorld system requirements, but we've used our FPS calculator and extensive in-game testing to determine a level of hardware you should aim for, especially if you're looking to employ the many awesome RimWorld mods on offer in the Steam Workshop. The most critical component here is your CPU, as RimWorld operates off a single core, so improving your graphics card will have minimal gains over improving your processor. 

Our RimWorld recommended specs demand an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 GPU at minimum, an Intel Core i9 12900K CPU or equivalent, and 16GB of RAM. Yes, that is quite the jump from the minimum specs, however RimWorld's processor load is not to be underestimated owing to the mono-threading the game employs. Thus, a powerful processor is needed to achieve the best results, particularly if you suddenly have a horde of rats self-tame in the late game.

Still not sure if your setup can handle the RimWorld PC requirements? Take our PC benchmark test now with our automatic checker or by manually entering your system details to see if your PC can run RimWorld.

RimWorld size - How big is RimWorld?

The initial RimWorld download size on PC is 1GB of HDD space on Windows PCs. The game also requires 1GB of space on macOS and Linux systems, but the size of the game across all operating systems comes to about 730MB even with all of the available DLC installed. 

We recommend installing the game on an SSD to ensure the best gameplay performance, particularly during the lengthy startup time (which becomes even longer once you start employing mods). So, if you need more space or want to make an upgrade, check the PCGamesN buyers guide for the best SSD for gaming or just check the latest, best prices for SSDs.

RimWorld mods

When it comes to modding RimWorld, there are thousands of options on the table, adding new mechanics such as fishing, or overhauling the game to look like Star Wars. However, there are two major things to bear in mind: mod compatibility and RimWorld version compatibility.

You'll find that many great mods are relegated to older versions of RimWorld, and thus won't be compatible with the latest version. Sometimes a dedicated fan will pick up a mod and update it for the latest version, but this can take some time depending on when the most recent RimWorld update or DLC was released. 

But, there are two easy avenues to explore when looking for ways to mod you game experience, especially for your first time:

• Check out modded YouTube playthroughs
• Explore the Vanilla Expanded mods

YouTubers frequently upload entire mod lists which they've tested extensively, enabling you to emulate their playthrough and finding mods that compliment one another without too much legwork on your part.

Otherwise, it's a fairly safe bet to stick with the RimWorld Vanilla Expanded mods (VE). This massive series of mods adds new features, expands on existing factions and categories, while allowing you to cherry-pick what bests suits your tastes. As a personal favorite, check out the Vanilla Factions Expanded - Mechanoids mod, which introduces an entire automation tree, new mechanoids, and long-range missiles!

You can find a full list of the best RimWorld mods on the PCGamesN guide.