No Man’s Sky Worlds Part II Update Introduces New Planets, Lifeforms, and Stories to Explore

I’m thrilled to share some exciting news with you today: No Man’s Sky is rolling out one of its most expansive updates yet, known as Worlds Part II. The good news? It’s absolutely free for those playing on Xbox and Game Pass.

In this update, we have unleashed billions of new star systems throughout the universe, each featuring entirely new planets created with advanced terrain technology. You’ll now experience enormous and awe-inspiring Gas Giant planets—ten times the size of our largest planet—providing a dramatic backdrop for exploration.

We’ve also made groundbreaking advancements in water technology. New water planets await, complete with their unique biomes and oceans that plunge kilometers deep. As you dive into these waters, prepare to encounter a wide array of new life in these mysterious depths.

The water itself behaves more realistically than ever before, rippling and creating foam as your ships skim their surfaces. With a sky dynamically filled with clouds and stars, the reflective water surfaces enhance the realism as you travel.

Our revamp of the lighting system brings an entirely fresh look to the seas and oceans with new caustics and light shafts. Venture deeper, and you’ll notice how the darkness intensifies, making every exploration feel immersive. On land, shadows are richer, light dances through leaves, and caves offer a more enveloping darkness.

New terrain tech now makes possible the towering mountain ranges and deep canyons, transforming the game’s landscape. There’s nothing quite like standing under a towering mountain peak or gazing into the vast depths of a gorge below.

Every planet in this expanded universe is unique, unseen even by us developers, which is part of the magic of No Man’s Sky. It’s a sense of exploration that hits differently because you’re trailblazing new paths in an untouched universe.

As we continue developing our next project, Light No Fire, we consistently learn and evolve, and it’s rewarding to bring these new experiences back to the world of No Man’s Sky.

Alongside this tech infusion, you’ll find plenty of new gameplay, lore, and missions to enjoy. There’s a storyline delving into the enigma of the Gas Giants, tying up some long-standing narrative mysteries. Plus, a fresh expedition functions as a guided overview of World Part II’s highlights, offering rewards like a new starship melding the nature of a living ship and a jet fighter.

To mark the Worlds Part II launch, we’re hosting a Twitch Drops event from Thursday, January 30, to Monday, February 3. Tune into your go-to No Man’s Sky streams on Twitch for a chance to snag exclusive ships, tools, pets, and more simply by watching.

Worlds Part II takes No Man’s Sky to new heights, far surpassing what I thought possible when we first embarked on this coding adventure. Nine years on, this update signifies yet another step in the beloved journey of this game.

No Man’s Sky, including all 29 major updates up to Worlds Part I, is available now. Inspired by the adventurous spirit of classic science fiction, the game presents a galaxy ripe for exploration filled with unique planets and life forms, alongside a constant buzz of excitement and danger.

Every star signifies a distant sun, with myriad orbiting planets teeming with life—yours to visit. Enjoy smooth transitions from deep space to ground level, without any delays. Within this infinite procedural universe, discover sights and creatures unseen by others, possibly never to be encountered again.

Set out on a grand adventure toward the galaxy’s core, driven by an irresistible pulse promising cosmic revelations. Battling fierce pirates and daunting creatures, you’ll need to decide how to enhance your ship, weaponry, and suit, as survival and exploration come at a cost.

Forge your path in No Man’s Sky. Perhaps you’ll become a fighter, seizing riches from the weak or hunting pirates for bounty? Upgrade for power and speed to become unstoppable. Or trade valuable resources, earning profits from distant worlds while expanding your cargo capacity for greater rewards. Alternatively, become an explorer, venturing beyond the known frontiers, discovering the unknown, and strengthening your suit for hazardous environments.

Join a living, breathing galaxy where trade, conflicts, and an ever-watchful police presence are a constant. Share your discoveries with others on a galaxy-wide map, witnessing the impact of their actions alongside your own.