How to Make an Atomic Bomb in Your Garden Unit Types Guide

Overview of Unit Types

In How to Make an Atomic Bomb in Your Garden, you are not just a solitary scientist working in your backyard. The world around you is populated with various unit types that can either help or hinder your progress. Understanding each unit's behavior, patrol patterns, and threat level is crucial for a successful detonation. This guide breaks down every unit type you will encounter, from suspicious neighbors to relentless federal agents.

Civilian Units

Civilian units are the most common NPCs you will encounter. They include your immediate neighbors, delivery drivers, and random passersby. While generally low-threat, they can become a major problem if they witness suspicious activity.

Law Enforcement Units

Once a civilian reports you or you trigger an alarm, law enforcement units will arrive. These are more organized and have better detection capabilities. You must avoid them at all costs, as an arrest ends your run.

Police Patrol

The first responder unit. They arrive in a squad car and conduct a perimeter check. They are easily fooled by basic camouflage but will search your shed if given probable cause.

Federal Agent

A more advanced unit that appears after multiple reports or if you attempt to purchase restricted items online. Agents are patient, methodical, and will stake out your property. They can intercept your communications and track your purchases.

Special Units

These unique units appear only under specific conditions. They are the most dangerous and require specific countermeasures.

Unit Type	Trigger Condition	Threat Level
SWAT Team	Multiple agent reports or visible detonation device	Extreme
Reporter	High public visibility	Medium
Conspiracy Theorist	Online forum activity	Low

The SWAT Team is the endgame threat. If they arrive, your only option is to trigger the bomb early or escape through a hidden tunnel. The Reporter will broadcast your location, increasing the spawn rate of all other units. The Conspiracy Theorist is actually helpful; they can provide rare parts in exchange for information, but they also attract unwanted attention.

Unit Behavior Patterns

Each unit follows a distinct behavior pattern based on the in-game clock and your actions. For example, Curious Neighbors are most active between 6 PM and 9 PM, while Federal Agents prefer early morning stakeouts.

1. Observe Patrol Routes

   Spend your first few in-game days watching unit movements. Mark their paths on your map.

2. Identify Peak Hours

   Note when certain units are most active. Plan your part gathering during low-activity windows.

3. Use Distractions

   Deploy noise makers or decoys to redirect units away from your work area.

For more detailed strategies on managing these units, check our Beginner Tips guide.

How to Counter Each Unit

Survival in How to Make an Atomic Bomb in Your Garden depends on your ability to counter each unit type effectively. Here are proven methods:

• Curious Neighbor: Plant tall hedges or erect a privacy fence. This blocks their line of sight.
• Federal Agent: Use a VPN for all online activities and pay for parts in cash. Never use the same supplier twice.
• SWAT Team: Build an early warning system using motion sensors and cameras. This gives you a 30-second head start.

Understanding unit types is just one piece of the puzzle. For a complete walkthrough of the game's mechanics, see our Mechanics Guide. You can also learn about the Progression System to unlock better tools and upgrades faster.