Skip to main content
Crude Oil Wiki

Crude Oil Restart Guide: How to Start Fresh

Updated 2026-06-09

Crude Oil Restart Guide: How to Start Fresh

Why Restart in Crude Oil?

Restarting, or beginning a new game, is a core mechanic in Crude Oil. While you play as a sentient puddle of crude fleeing from a corrupt oil corporation, each playthrough offers unique opportunities. Restarting allows you to apply the knowledge from your previous run, keep certain persistent upgrades, and tackle the adventure with a more efficient strategy. This guide covers everything you need to know about restarting effectively.

Before diving in, make sure you understand the basics. Check out our Beginner Guide for foundational tips.

What Carries Over When You Restart

Not everything is lost when you start a new game. Crude Oil features a progression system that rewards multiple playthroughs.

Persistent Progression: Certain upgrades and collectibles are tied to your account, not your current save file. This ensures each restart makes you stronger.

Here is what typically carries over:

  • Unlocked Perks: Perks you have permanently unlocked through the progression system remain active.
  • Account Currency: Any premium currency or special tokens earned are retained.
  • Cosmetic Items: Skins and visual unlocks for your oil puddle are permanent.
  • Achievement Progress: Your overall achievement progress is saved globally.

Items that are reset include your oil mass, location progress, story flags, and temporary buffs. For a full breakdown of what resets, see our Progression System Guide.

Step-by-Step Restart Process

Follow these steps to properly restart your game in Crude Oil.

  1. Access the Main Menu

    From in-game, pause and return to the main menu. Look for the "New Game" or "Restart" option. Do not delete your save file from the system files unless you want a complete, irreversible wipe.

  2. Confirm Your Choice

    The game will ask for confirmation. Read the prompt carefully—it will list what you will lose and what you will keep. Confirm to begin a fresh run.

  3. Select Your Starting Perks

    Before the new game begins, you may be able to select from your pool of permanently unlocked perks. Choose perks that synergize with your intended playstyle for this new run.

  4. Begin Your New Adventure

    You will start at the beginning of the game. Use your retained knowledge to navigate the early areas more efficiently. Focus on collecting oil mass quickly to regain your strength.

Optimal Strategies for a New Run

Starting over is a chance to optimize. Here are key strategies to maximize your new run.

  • Prioritize Early Growth: In the first hour, focus on absorbing every small oil spill you find. Mass equals power.
  • Revisit Early Challenges: With your experience, early enemies and puzzles are easier. Speed through them to reach later content.
  • Unlock Persistent Upgrades First: Spend any retained currency on upgrades that provide global benefits, such as increased oil absorption rate.
  • Experiment with Different Paths: Try a different route or approach to the story. You might discover new secrets or lore.

For more advanced tips on progression, read our Beginner Tips Guide.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced players make errors when restarting. Avoid these pitfalls.

  • Deleting Save Files Prematurely: Always use the in-game restart option. Manually deleting files can cause loss of persistent data.
  • Ignoring the Tutorial: The tutorial may seem repetitive, but it sometimes contains updated information or hints for new mechanics.
  • Rushing Too Fast: While speed is beneficial, skipping essential upgrades early can make the mid-game harder.
  • Forgetting to Rebind Controls: If you use custom controls, check your settings after restarting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I have multiple save files? Yes, Crude Oil supports multiple save slots. You can start a new game without overwriting your existing progress.

Will I lose my achievements if I restart? No, achievements are tied to your account and are permanent. Restarting can even help you earn achievements you missed.

Is there a New Game Plus mode? Crude Oil does not have a traditional New Game Plus mode, but the restart system with persistent upgrades functions similarly. For more details, see our Endings Guide.

How often should I restart? Restart when you feel you have hit a progression wall, or when you want to try a different strategy with your accumulated perks. There is no penalty for restarting multiple times.

Final Tips for a Strong Restart

A well-timed restart can transform your Crude Oil experience. Use your retained knowledge and upgrades to push further than before. Remember to explore thoroughly and experiment with different playstyles. Each restart is a new opportunity to grow your oil puddle into an unstoppable force against the corporate polluters.

For more details on specific mechanics and upgrades, consult our Mechanics Guide and Upgrades Guide. Happy oozing!

Related pages