Multiblocks are functional structures consisting of multiple blocks in a specific pattern. A multiblock will not function if any block in the structure is broken or destroyed by an explosion, though it will resume function if the missing blocks are replaced.

Multiblock Structure Merging

Multiblocks that contain similar block pattern configurations can share blocks, with all merged multiblocks retaining their function regardless of type. Multiblock merging is commonly used to reduce the total block count used by multiblocks on ships, to make more compact factories, and build more multiblocks at a discounted resource cost.

Signs are the only components of a multiblock that cannot be shared between two multiblocks; each multiblock must have its own sign to function.

Harvesters and Planters are multiblocks that can be merged with themselves, although merging them reduces the farm-able area of each multiblock, requiring nearly twice as many multiblocks to cover the same area.

Example: Navcomputer-Thruster Merge

Afterburners and an Advanced Navigation Computer are commonly merged on small starships to reduce total material costs and the number of blocks used in multiblocks, freeing up additional space for concrete or block count for additional armor. The six iron blocks on the rear sides of the navcomputer are used as a starting point to add sponges, gold blocks, and light blocks to create afterburners, while two more afterburners can be created on the top and bottom by adding a gold block and light block, sharing an iron block and sponge with the navcomputer.

Additionally, the top iron block and sponge can be used to create a 0.8 Particle Shield by adding the appropriate glass blocks and sign on top, and a furnace can be added to the front to create a Plasma Cannon. The sponges on the rear of the navcomputer can be used to create Ion Thrusters by adding a valid light emitting thruster block.

This example configuration saves 8 iron blocks, 10 sponges, and reduces the total block count by 14 compared to a configuration that does not utilize multiblock merging.