Beloved Biters

(Mod will be called Biter Builders on mod menu)

Beloved Biters is my first Factorio mod. It changes the usual science-based gameplay loop by allowing worker biters to help transport science packs to laboratories.

For new runs the map will always spawn you with a free research nest, and a brood spot to place it on.

Destroy hostile biter spawners to uncover Dormant Brood Sites, then build worker nests on those sites and fill them with worker biters. Your new colony will carry science packs from the nests to nearby labs, creating a more animated research system and encouraging different base layouts.

The goal is not to replace normal Factorio progression, but to add a new logistical layer. You can build compact science colonies, spacious pathfinding-friendly layouts, distributed research outposts, or heavily defended biter science fortresses supplied by train.

Features

• Worker biters transport science packs to nearby labs.
• Destroyed hostile spawners create reusable Dormant Brood Sites.
• Tier 1 and Tier 2 worker nests.
• Tier 2 nests support three faster worker biters.
• Supports vanilla and Space Age science packs.
• Multiple nests and workers can serve the same research area.
• Encourages new science-base and defensive-fortress designs.
• Includes a starter nest and worker for new games.

Known Issues

• Agricultural science spoilage during worker transport has not been fully tested.
• Very large late-game research setups may require several nests.
• Removing the mod while lab inserters are paused may leave those inserters disabled.
• Late-game balance, unusual pathfinding layouts, and some Space Age interactions are still being tested.

Feedback, screenshots, fortress designs, bug reports, and videos are very welcome. I am especially interested in seeing what efficient worker-nest layouts players discover.