Z-level

Z-Levels are the various maps with set borders that contain the playable areas of SS13. Moving off the edge of a z-level in space will place you somewhere on the opposite edge of the debris z-level. There are three different z-levels in SS13, each one serving a different purpose.

Normal space

Station

This z-level contains the station or ship. It also contains the Syndicate Teleporter, as well as a few other items of mild interest around the borders.

Leaving this z-level from any edge will send you to the debris field.

Debris field

A section of deep space long abandoned by Nanotrasen and Syndicate alike, the debris field is loaded with derelict stations, abandoned ships, dangerous attack drones, and plenty of goodies for the adventurous (and well-prepared) scavenger. It's also home to the more habitable Mining Outpost and space diner for those looking for a place to relax off-station.

Leaving the debris field via any edge will place you on the opposite edge of Mining Level (i.e. going off the left edge of debris will put you on the right side of Mining Level). Travelling back to the normal z-level requires a wormhole, teleportation, or the Mining Shuttle (now available on every map).

Mining Level

A mining zone filled with randomly generated, very large asteroids similar to those from the mining magnet. Expect modest bounties of ore, the occasional angry drone, and some very strange, very weird asteroids that'll really leave you scratching your head. You access it by going off the edge of the debris field as described in that section; to go back, it's the same idea: for example, going off the right side of Mining Level will put you on the left side of the debris field, etc.

Bringing a cargo transporter is very much recommended in order to be able to bring all the loot you find back to the station.

Restricted space

This z-level contains areas that are only accessible under certain circumstances, such as the Adventure Zones, VR, and Centcom, where the emergency shuttle eventually ends up. Each area is enclosed in its own portion of the z-level, completely separated from its neighbors.

Entering and exiting this z-level by "normal" means is not possible.