Frostpunk 2: How to build a Research Institute? Frostpunk 2 guide, tips

The research institute is one of the basic structures you will come to build in Frostpunk 2. On this page of the guide we will tell you where and how you can put it up.

Last update: 19 September 2024

While playing the first chapter of the campaign in Frostpunk 2, one of your tasks will be to build a Research Institute, a structure that allows you to develop and research new concepts and ideas in the city. On this guide page, we will suggest where you can place it.

Where can a Research Institute be built?

The Research Institute is a building that unlocks the Idea Tree, a special mechanic that allows you to research, develop, and improve your city. Using the Idea Tree is an essential part of Frostpunk 2's gameplay, which is why it is even more important to build a Research Institute as quickly as possible.

The centre must be built in a residential area. To have room for it, you must first expand the boundaries of the district.

To do this, click on a Housing District and then select the spreading arrows icon in the lower right corner. In build mode, select 3 tiles adjacent to a district that will be added to the housing space. Remember that new fields must be suitable for construction (e.g. the frost must be broken up beforehand).

Expanding a Housing District will unlock 1 building slot for you. Now you can click on the building icon in the bottom right corner of the screen (or use the "N" keyboard shortcut). From the "Housing" tab, select the Research Institute, then hover over the expanded Housing District. The new building will occupy a vacant slot in the district. After some time, the workers will construct the building and you will gain access to the Idea Tree.