Grounded 2: Unlock Ziplines & Zip.r in Into the Abyss

To unlock ziplines and the Zip.r in Grounded 2 (the sequel to the 2022 survival game), you must complete the story mission “Into the Abyss” and then craft the Zip.r tool at an Ominent Workbench using parts found in the new Abyss biome. This guide explains the exact steps, what you need to gather, and how to use the Zip.r effectively.

Background: What Are Ziplines and the Zip.r?

Ziplines are a fast-travel system in Grounded 2 that let you move quickly between elevated points on the map. Unlike the original game, where ziplines were built as static structures, the sequel introduces the Zip.r — a handheld device that lets you attach a line to any anchor point and ride it. The Zip.r is essential for crossing the massive chasm in the Abyss biome, which is why it’s tied to the “Into the Abyss” mission.

How to Start “Into the Abyss”

You can only unlock the mission after completing the main story quest “The Great Fall” and reaching player level 15. Once those requirements are met, talk to Dr. Wendell Tully at the Mysterious Lab. He will give you the quest, which tasks you with exploring the newly opened Abyss biome and finding the source of a strange energy signal.

Step-by-Step: Unlocking the Zip.r

Accept the quest from Dr. Tully at the Mysterious Lab.
Travel to the Abyss entrance — it’s located in the northwest corner of the map, near the old Sandbox area. You’ll need a Tier 3 shovel to clear the rubble blocking the cave.
Explore the Abyss until you reach the central chamber. You’ll encounter new enemies like the Glow Mite and the Deep Stalker, so bring healing items and a Tier 3 weapon.
Find the Ominent Supply Cache — it’s in a sealed room guarded by a mini-boss called the Abyss Watcher. Defeat it to open the cache.
Loot the Zip.r Blueprint from the cache. This blueprint is the key item that unlocks the ability to craft the Zip.r.
Return to the Mysterious Lab and talk to Dr. Tully to complete the mission. He’ll give you the recipe for the Zip.r.
Craft the Zip.r at any Ominent Workbench. You’ll need:
- 2x Abyss Thread (dropped by Glow Mites)
- 4x Reinforced Cog (found in the Abyss’s gear-filled rooms)
- 1x Super Duper Glue (crafted from resin and spider silk)

How to Use the Zip.r

Once crafted, equip the Zip.r in your tool slot. To use it, look at any zipline anchor point (they look like small metal posts with a green glow) and press the interact button (E on PC, X on Xbox, Square on PlayStation). The Zip.r will attach a line to that anchor. Then, aim at another anchor point within range (up to 100 meters) and press the fire button to connect the two. You’ll automatically start riding the line to the destination anchor.

You can also use the Zip.r to create a one-way line from a high point to a lower point, which is great for quick descents. To do this, attach to a high anchor, then aim at the ground or a lower anchor and fire. The line will be created, and you’ll slide down it.

Common Problems and Fixes

Zip.r won’t attach to an anchor: Make sure you’re within 5 meters of the anchor and that it’s not obstructed by terrain or debris. Also check that you have enough Abyss Thread in your inventory (each line uses 1 thread).
Line breaks mid-ride: This happens if the line’s path is blocked by a wall or creature. Always check the line’s trajectory before riding. If it breaks, you’ll fall — so use the glider to avoid damage.
Can’t find the Abyss entrance: The entrance is hidden behind a waterfall in the northwest corner. Look for a small cave opening behind the water. You’ll need a Tier 3 shovel to clear the rocks.
Abyss Watcher mini-boss is too tough: Use a Tier 3 weapon with the Fresh upgrade (it’s weak to fresh damage). Bring at least 5 healing items and consider crafting a smoothie that boosts attack damage.

Tips for Using Ziplines Effectively

Set up a network of anchors at your base and key locations (like the Mysterious Lab and the Abyss entrance) to save travel time.
Use the Zip.r to quickly escape from dangerous enemies — attach a line and ride away.
Combine the Zip.r with the Glider for maximum mobility: ride a line to its end, then deploy the glider to cover even more distance.
When creating a line, the game shows a preview of the line’s path. Always check it for obstacles before confirming.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I unlock the Zip.r before completing “Into the Abyss”?

No. The Zip.r blueprint is only obtainable from the Ominent Supply Cache in the Abyss, which is part of the “Into the Abyss” mission. You must complete the mission to get the recipe.

Do I need the Zip.r to complete the game?

Yes, the Zip.r is required to reach certain areas in the Abyss and to complete the final story missions. It’s also extremely useful for general traversal, so it’s worth getting early.

How do I get more Abyss Thread?

Abyss Thread is dropped by Glow Mites, which are common in the Abyss biome. They’re small, glowing insects that swarm in groups. Use a weapon with area-of-effect damage to take them out quickly.

Can I upgrade the Zip.r?

Yes, you can upgrade the Zip.r at the Ominent Workbench using Abyss Thread and Reinforced Cogs. Upgrades increase the maximum line length and reduce the stamina cost of riding.

What happens if I destroy a zipline anchor?

If you destroy an anchor (by attacking it or using a bomb), any lines connected to it will break. You’ll need to rebuild the anchor using the base-building menu (costs 2x Weed Stem and 1x Crude Rope).

Conclusion

Unlocking the Zip.r in Grounded 2 requires completing the “Into the Abyss” mission, which involves exploring the new Abyss biome, defeating a mini-boss, and crafting the device. Once you have it, ziplines become a fast and fun way to get around. If you run into trouble, refer to the tips above, and don’t forget to stock up on Abyss Thread. Happy zipping!

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.

More cards in this drawer

The whole Numbers and Powers drawer →