Z-level
Z-Level refers to the various maps with set borders that contain the playable areas of SS13. Moving off the edge of a z-level in space will take you to one of the 2 non-station z-levels at random (including possibly looping back to the one you just left). Certain z-levels contain interesting items and gear for the adventurous space explorer.
Normal space
Station
This is the level that all crewmembers start on. It contains the main space station, the Syndicate Teleporter and the Wizard's Den Once you have left it, this z-level is only accessible by the Mining Shuttle, pods with proper navigation technology, and by teleportation.
Debris field
The debris field is out there in deep space. Nanotrasen gave up on it, the Syndicate gave up on it, the Russians gave up on it, life gave up on it. Explorers who find themselves here should be prepared for trouble. It contains the Mining Outpost, along with a surprisingly cosy diner. Miners do not spawn here, but can go via the mining shuttle if they wish. The Mining Shuttle can be used to travel from the Mining Outpost to the Station Z-Level.
Other relatively well-known landmarks include the shattered remains of old Donut Station's engine, the mysterious Hemera 7, an abandoned yet still habitable space station, and more for the well-equipped space explorer. This level can be accessed through random space exploration, the mining shuttle and a pod navigation beacon.
Adventure Zone
Contains a bunch of interesting locations only accessible with telescience. Some places are safe and benign, some are dangerous and have a life expectancy for adventurers hovering around 0. Pack appropriately. Well-known destinations include:
- The Biodome, an underground botanical research station with more to it than meets the eye. Features an elevator that goes up to the ground level of the research facility.
- The Lava Moon, exactly what the name says it is, a moon covered in lava. Heat protection and internals are recommended. Don't fall into the lava, for obvious reasons.
- The Solarium, a ship very close to the sun. What secrets does it hold? Why is it here?
- The Ice Moon, a very cold and inhospitable moon. Has an abandoned research station.
- Mars, the red planet. Or, more specifically, the remains of Mars Outpost 42. Going outside without adequate protection from Martian dust storms is almost suicidal.
Special levels
Centcom
This level contains a variety of places that cannot be reached through regular means. There is Centcom, which is accessible with the escape shuttle. The Syndicate Shuttle is home to the Nuclear Operatives and can only be reached with a Syndicate Teleporter Remote.
The Void
Covered in a weird swirling energy and home to the mysterious void station. Can be accessed through random chance using Telescience.