Hello Folks!
We’re delighted to let you know our next update is called OUTLAWS and it launches today. This is a particularly explosive update with the focus on the underworld of No Man’s Sky for the first time. We have overhauled Space Combat, introduced a new pirate underworld and added solar sail ships (the first new ship class in the game in over 2 years - since our LIVING SHIP update). You can also now hire your own squadron of wingmen, smuggle illegal goods, and protect your settlement from pirate ship raids.
Our last update (SENTINEL) focused on ground combat, broadening the risk, reward and fun for players exploring on planet. Similarly we were really delighted to put some love into Space Combat with this latest update (OUTLAWS) and I know this is one the community has been really eager for.
Please check the patch notes here for full details, but these are just a few of the additions which OUTLAWS brings:
Outlaw Stations
Outlaws have taken over space stations all across the galaxy. Outlaw systems are dangerous, lawless places, with frequent conflict (but this all represents an opportunity for players with an eye for raiding passing starships…)
A new series of missions leads players towards pockets of rebellion, where they’ll find an underworld offering pirate missions, black-market technology, and a chance to acquire valuable goods illegal elsewhere in the galaxy. Like-minded players can even acquire a forged passport that will allow them by-pass the authorities.
Solar Starship
With unique solar-powered sail and sleek bodywork, this is the vessel of choice for those looking to speed between the stars. The Solar Ship is No Man’s Sky’s first new starship since the start of 2020. There is considerable variety across this range of ships, so look forward to scouring the galaxy for the perfect version to match your existing fleet. The maximum number of ships a player can own has been raised from six to nine, so you don’t have to worry about limiting your fleet either.
Smuggling
Illegal goods can be purchased in outlaw systems and be smuggled out for a significant profit. A smuggler’s life is dangerous. The Sentinels are on the lookout for contraband, and discovery is only a cargo probe away…
Cargo Inventories
All players - not just the smugglers - will benefit from the addition of specialist cargo inventories to all starships. These high-capacity slots can store large quantities of cargo, and storage-hungry players can unlock extra slots from the ship upgrade terminal found on all space stations.
Squadrons
Players can now recruit and upgrade their own wingmen. Collect your perfect set of ships and pilots. Each pilot comes with their own abilities, and can be upgraded over time to improve the combat ability.
Space Combat
Space combat has been overhauled for speed and excitement. Handling has been improved, weapons have new visual effects and enemy starships now have shields. Depth has also been added to weapon selection with a variety of specialist secondary effects, such as slowing enemy engines or disabling shield systems. Ship-to-ship combat can now occur within a planet’s atmosphere too - and pirates may raid your settlements. For those who find Space Combat difficult, flight accessibility has been significantly improved with a new Auto-Follow mode.
It’s so surprising for us, after six years to see No Man’s Sky still resonating with folks. It meant so much to the team to see our last update (SENTINEL) bring in so many new players and exceed expectations, and following that it blew our minds to win the “Evolving Game” category at the BAFTAs last week. All this and our Switch version is shaping up nicely in the background!
Our journey continues.
Sean