If you’ve just begun playing Deep Rock Galactic, you may have seen strange boxes lying around randomly during some missions that you may not be able to open.

These boxes unlock what’s known as a Machine Event. If you’re curious to learn about Machine Events in Deep Rock Galactic, we’ve got you covered. Read on to find out how to activate them, what types of Machine Events there are, and what loot you can get from beating them.

What is a Machine Event in Deep Rock Galactic?

Machine Events are extra challenges that you can take part in during missions. As we mentioned earlier, they appear at random so there’s no guarantee you’ll come across them.

There are three types you can randomly get — Kursite Infection, Rock Mutation, and Tritilyte Crystal. Each requires a different task of you, so ensure you learn what’s required before you charge headfirst into each one.

Machine Events are difficult challenges that only the best players and those that work together efficiently can beat. You need to beat them within the three-minute time limit in order to best them and get your rewards too.

How do I activate a Machine Event in Deep Rock Galactic?

To unlock a Machine Event box, you’ll need a Tritilyte key. Unfortunately, only dwarves who have been promoted can activate them as they have the required key. You can learn more about promotions in this separate guide.

It’s worth bearing in mind that, due to how difficult these events are, you’ll need to be at your best. That means having full health and shields, being stocked up on enough ammo and health packs, and that all dawrves in your party are prepared to take part. If one of you isn’t, you’ll struggle to beat it in three minutes.

What rewards can I get from a Machine Event?

You’ll earn plenty of XP and Credits. Additionally, you’ll be able to select from three reward options. These are Weapon Overclocks or Matrix Core Cosmetics, and any random selection will be on offer if you beat the Machine Event.

Before you activate a Machine Event, ensure you have a Blank Matrix Core on you. You need a core to insert into the Machine Event’s core infuser after completing it to obtain your reward. If you don’t have one, you’ll be out of luck.

Blank Matrix Cores can be obtained from the first part of both Deep Dive missions or Core Hunt assignments. Once you have selected which Overclock or Core Cosmetic you want, you can use them in the Forge.