Path

Paths are the backbone of Timberborn's transportation and access system. They are free, instant-to-build segments that connect constructions to a District Center so beavers can use buildings and services. Paths can be placed on any solid surface, on top of platforms and other solid buildings (placement on structures must be done separately), and were originally placeable underwater in early versions. Several movement structures—Stairs, Spiral Stairs, Suspension Bridges, and Slopes—function as path segments automatically; Ziplines and the Tubeway System are not paths but do extend the path network.

Because paths are instant and cost no materials, they are the primary tool for shaping beaver movement and district reach. Any construction must be connected to a District Center by a continuous path network for its population to use the construction; unconnected buildings show warning icons and alerts. Paths also extend the District Center boundaries, which enables construction, access to rubble, and resource removal. You can mark resources for demolition or collection up to 10 blocks from a path.

Worker routing depends on the path network. Builders always travel to the closest path segment and then follow paths to a job site, even if that closest segment results in a longer overall route; this behavior can cause inefficiencies when nearby path segments take a circuitous route. Farmers and gatherers calculate routes differently and choose the shortest path between their origin and the building entrance.

Because paths are free and instantly rebuildable, they are useful for temporarily controlling beaver access: removing a path section prevents beavers from reaching an area, and rebuilding it restores access. Gates provide an alternative for automated control of path access. The game's flavor text for Paths references the song "Take Me Home, Country Roads." Historical updates added L-shaped drawing in a single drag, display of distance to the District Center, and changed their appearance and placement behavior during development.