The phrase "honeycomb one's base" is a common base-building approach in Rust that players use to protect their Tool Cupboard, also known as "TC." The goal of honeycombing a base is to force a raiding enemy to maximize the resources they need to reach a player's TC. Such resources would include explosive ammo, rockets, and C4. The honeycomb strategy can even be applied to weaker accommodations or bases in Rust that only have stone walls with a few metal foundations. The more complex a base's internal layout is, the more challenging and expensive an enemy raid becomes.
Naturally, the most optimal base design will depend on the size of a player's group and if they plan to be prepared for online raiding. For example, a large clan with members who rotate online will likely have the time and resources to fortify the base's core but leave the rest of the interior more open for more accessible mobility when defending a raid. On the other hand, a duo or solo team will need to be more cautious with having a spacious base. Keeping everything compact with more walls will mean even a large group will have trouble raiding the honeycomb base in Rust.
First and foremost, ensure that the TC is placed in the deepest center of the base, preferably in a location where the enemy can't see it from the outside. This means having one's TC visible from the window is a guaranteed raid for the player. Next, use triangle flooring to create more surface area where walls can be built. This tactic causes the splash damage from an explosive weapon to be less effective. Thirdly, visualize the base getting raided and ensure that the raid will cost the same amount of resources from any angle, including the roof. This way, if a hostile group becomes discouraged by their efforts blasting through one area, they will likely run out of explosives while attempting to raid from a different direction.
How To Honeycomb A Base In Rust
There are a few key things to keep in mind while honeycombing a base in Rust. First, always prioritize upgrading the foundation and ensure the walls' soft sides never face the outer walkway. Next, if players want to add windows to see outside, place sheet metal over the glass to increase its defense rating. Finally, when building a honeycomb, try not to put square floors together but use a central square foundation surrounded by triangular floors for more possible walls. More walls are always better than active defenses such as turrets or traps.
Nonetheless, if players wish to use shotgun traps or flamethrowers, place these items deep within the base in spots where the enemy cannot see or strike them. Such areas would include the bottom of a drop entrance. Finally, one thing that new Rust players often forget is to upgrade the door frame of their wall. A wooden frame causes even the most robust metal door to become highly vulnerable.
Rust is available on PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and PC.