How Progression Works in My Time at Sandrock
In My Time at Sandrock, your workshop grows through a simple loop: take commissions (timed requests from the Commerce Guild board), gather materials, craft parts, and deliver before the deadline. Finishing on time earns gols and workshop reputation. As that reputation rises, your workshop rank goes up, and better commission opportunities open.
Early game, aim for consistency instead of rushing. Keep recyclers and furnaces fueled, and keep water in your tank, since active machines use water and stop when it runs dry. Turn in Data Discs (relic research items commonly found through salvaging and in Abandoned Ruins) quickly so Qi can unlock new machine diagrams on a steady schedule. Keep moving story quests forward too, so new systems open while commissions keep your income steady.
Daily Priority Checklist
Each morning, follow this order: check mail and your quest log, review machine queues, take a realistic commission, then gather the exact missing materials before noon. Use Abandoned Ruins (digging-focused mine areas) when you need bulk ore and relic materials, and use open-world gathering and salvage for wood, stone, and dregs (a common early fuel item).
Before bed, top off fuel and water, queue long crafts, and keep a small buffer of basics like bars, bearings, and bricks so tomorrow's commissions are easier. Common early mistakes are taking commissions above your current tech level, selling core crafting materials for quick gols, and spending all stamina on combat while your workshop is under-supplied. If two tasks compete for your time, pick the one that improves tomorrow's production first.