Colonists, sometimes called Pawns, immediately become your most valuable asset in RimWorld. You could have all the Silver on the planet, but without a Pawn, you can’t transport, trade, or craft using such a valuable resource. Here is how to get more colonists in RimWorld!
How to Get New Colonists in RimWorld
When it comes time to grow your colony by enlisting the help of additional pawns in RimWorld, you have a handful of options. They’re not all equal, however. Sometimes, you take what you can get along the rim!
- Quests
- Raids (Taking prisoners!)
- Random events
- Crashed drop pods
- Growth vats
- Ideology rituals
While I’m sure I missed a method or two due to RimWorld’s random nature, these methods are the most likely. Especially in the early game, you’re liable to receive new colonists through quests, random events, and crashed drop pods.
Related: How to Get Steel in RimWorld
The Best Way to Recruit People in RimWorld
Perhaps the best way to recruit colonists in RimWorld, at least in my opinion, is to take prisoners and slowly convert them to your cause.
But first, you must build a prison in RimWorld. It’s a simple structure, with a handful of individual cells to separate your prisoners. I attempted a singular common space, with beds lining one wall and activities in the center, but it allowed the pawns a chance to mingle and eventually attempt an escape. I now prefer single cells.
Once you have your jail set up, pick a colonist with the highest Warden abilities and assign them to recruit prisoners. Your Warden will start by reducing prisoners’ resistance, essentially talking them into your point of view. Once their resistance drops low enough, the Warden will recruit the prisoner, and they’ll join your colony.
However, prisoners may defect when faced with their old factions and relations!
How Many Colonists Should You Have in RimWorld?
Much of the answer to “how many colonists should you have in RimWorld” relies heavily on your specific playstyle and capabilities. Do you feel comfortable micro-managing double-digits?
Personally, I find that six to eight colonists is the ideal number. It’s manageable while still increasing the colony’s power, allowing you to take on most raids or random events in the game.
I know many people prefer 10-12, however. It’s up to you!
The Guide Hall continues to run a thriving colony in RimWorld, including wall lights for prisoners to help them see the light and join us. We’ll have additional game guides for you soon!