The Root Bound

Underground root architecture puzzle. Guide your root tip around obstacles and seek nutrients. Your tail lignifies (hardens) behind you - plan your path carefully!

Root System Complete

Nutrients Collected: 0

Root Length: 0

Level Reached: 0

Controls

Arrow Keys / WASD to steer root tip

Space to pause growth

Nitrogen (N)
Phosphorus (P)
Potassium (K)
Water

Root Status

Length: 0 segments
Depth: 0 cm
Level: 1
Nutrient Reserve

Actions

How to Play

  • Guide your root tip through the soil using arrow keys or WASD
  • Collect nutrients (colored circles) to maintain growth - your nutrient reserve depletes over time
  • Avoid obstacles: Rocks (gray) are impassable, and your own lignified root trail blocks your path
  • Lignification: As you grow, older segments harden and become obstacles - plan ahead!
  • Water droplets (blue) give a small nutrient boost and increase growth speed temporarily
  • Complete levels by collecting enough nutrients to fill your reserve
  • The game ends when your nutrient reserve is depleted or you're completely boxed in

Inspired by how real plant roots navigate soil - using chemotropism to seek nutrients while their older tissues lignify for structural support.