Rarefaction Cell

The Rarefaction Cell, referred to as Energy Cell in the code, is a key item in 's campaign, found in Linear Systems Rail.



Function
The Rarefaction Cell temporarily distorts gravity when used. Being larger and heavier than most objects, the Cell cannot be swallowed and weighs down when held, resulting in a lower jump height, swim speed, and a gradual downwards slide when on poles or in tunnels when not moving. Pressing and holding Grab activates the Cell, distorting gravity for ~15 seconds and allowing for dramatically increased jump heights and swimming speed. Afterward, it will enter a cooldown until it can be used again.

Bringing the Rarefaction Cell from The Rot to Submerged Superstructure is necessary for achieving the Old Friend ending. Should the Cell be lost through any means, the player will need to restart the cycle. Being a key item, it appears on the minimap.

Trivia

 * According to and, Rarefaction Cells are the emergency power systems of Iterator superstructures, allowing them to keep functioning if conventional energy sources are lost or cease to function due to decay.
 * The Rarefaction Cells are also the main cause of the superstructures' gravitational anomalies, distorting space and gravity around them while active.
 * If a Cell is lost or removed from a superstructure, the Iterator in question will slowly die.
 * Looks to the Moon lost her Rarefaction Cells when her superstructure collapsed, as they were washed away by the Shoreline's ocean.
 * Should the Rarefaction Cell be destroyed, e.g. through manipulating a, a slightly larger version of the explosion will occur.