X Shape

Refined Shape X is one of the game's exotics, a special part type that behaves like a normal shape part in most respects but with key differences related to how its color is obtained and how it is distributed in scenarios. It is listed in the part types as Refined Shape X with code X and can appear in shapes that use the quad configuration (four parts per layer) or other configurations when using flexible rulesets or Shape Codes. Refined Shape X is treated as a regular shape type for stacking, cutting, connecting and delivery.

Refined shapes cannot be found naturally around the map in normal play. A small patch of refined shapes, including Refined Shape X, exists next to the Vortex only when a save is started in the Certification Scenario. Outside of that special case, Refined Shape X must be acquired through the game’s special systems rather than by standard extraction. Refined shapes do not change color when passed through Painters. The only direct in-game method to obtain different colors of exotics is through Trade Stations.

Refined Shape X can be represented in Shape Codes like any other part type. In a Shape Code, the part type character X denotes Refined Shape X, followed by a color character for colored variants when the scenario or code allows color. Shapes using Refined Shape X follow the same overall shape structure rules: shapes are composed of layers and each layer of parts is encoded from bottom to top in Shape Codes. The Shape Inspector can be used to view Refined Shape X in 3D, to change view angle, to space out quadrants and layers, and to inspect the amount stored and delivery statistics when Refined Shape X is part of stored or produced shapes.

Refined Shape X obeys the game’s connectivity and gravity rules that apply to shape parts. After any operation that could create floating pieces, Shape Gravity Rules are applied: for each layer starting from the bottom, horizontally connected groups are identified and groups without vertical support fall until at least one part is directly above another supported part. Refined Shape X connects and supports other parts according to the general definitions of connection and support used by the game. Pins, crystals and empty parts follow their own special behaviors that interact with shape gravity and connectivity; refined shapes themselves do not receive special support exceptions beyond the exotic color rules.

• Code: X in Shape Codes; color character follows as for other colorable parts when applicable.
• Category: Refined shape (exotic). Can have color but is immune to Painters.
• Acquisition: not found on the map normally; small patch near the Vortex only in Certification Scenario; otherwise obtained via Trade Stations or scenario-specific sources.
• Inspection: viewable and configurable in the Shape Inspector; appears in delivery and storage statistics.
• Mechanics: behaves like a regular part for stacking, cutting and connections; subject to Shape Gravity Rules and the usual connectivity/support definitions.