Vintage Story: Advanced Prospecting & Mining
Mining in **Vintage Story** is a geologically accurate simulation. Ores do not spawn in small random clusters; they exist in massive, multi-chunk "fields" determined by the host rock. To find them, you must master the Prospecting Pick (Propick) and its two distinct operation modes.
1. Density Search Mode
Use this to find if a region contains ore. Strike 3 different rock blocks within a 16-block radius to get a reading in parts per thousand (‰).
2. Node Search Mode
Use this to pinpoint the vein. Once Density Search confirms ore is nearby, use Node Search on individual blocks to check a 6-block radius.
3. Rock Hierarchies
Not all ores spawn in all rocks. For example, you will never find Tin in Basalt. Understanding geology is more important than luck.
Mastering the Prospecting Workflow
To find transition metals like Iron or Tin, follow this professional geological survey method:
- Broad Survey: Travelers approximately 100-150 blocks and take a **Density Search** sample. Mark the result (e.g.,
Tin: 4.5% Decent) on your map. - Triangulation: Move in different directions until you find the "center" of the density field where the percentage is highest.
- Deep Shaft: Once at the peak, dig a vertical 1x1 shaft (placing ladders as you go) down to the mantle.
- Node Strike: Every 5 blocks down, strike the wall with **Node Search**. If it says "Trace" or "Significant," you are within 5 blocks of the vein. Strike the 4 walls to see which direction the reading gets stronger.
Ore & Rock Compatibility Table
| Ore Type | Required Rock Layers | Search Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Copper | Any (Igneous, Sedimentary, Metamorphic) | Surface Nuggets First |
| Tin (Cassiterite) | Granite and Andesite ONLY | Density + Node |
| Iron (Hematite) | Sedimentary (Sandstone, Shale) | Density + Node |
| Iron (Magnetite) | Igneous (Basalt, Andesite) | Density + Node |
| Gold / Silver | Quartz Veins in any rock | Visual Only |
Pro Tip: By default, some servers have "Mode B" (Node Search) set to a very small radius. If you are struggling to find a vein even with a high density reading, check with your server admin to see if the proPickNodeSearchRadius has been modified.
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