No Man’s Sky has introduced continuous updates ever since it’s infamous launch in 2016, and in that time, it has become one of the better redemption stories in all of gaming. With the release of the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S, many games have been receiving updates in order to take advantage of new hardware, and No Man’s Sky is no exception. The No Man’s Sky Next Generation update has brought with it significant improvements to the game’s graphics and audio, and these make its infinite planets feel more distinct from one another.
“Biomes” are the main feature that differentiates the various planets in No Man’s Sky, since they determine the weather and wildlife on a given world. One of the more desirable biomes for players looking to start a base is the “lush” biome, which includes picturesque grassy terrain and expansive oceans (as well as the absence of dangerous hazards). While the newest update does not change the function of biomes within No Man’s Sky, it does impact their visuals, especially on lush planets. The higher density of grass and other flora allow these Earth-like paradises to stand out when compared to other biomes, and they also look more unique when compared to one another, making exploration more worthwhile for the player.
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Planets with the “dead” biome are the complete opposite, having no wildlife and requiring an intense strain on life support systems to remain there. The higher resolution textures included with Next Generation enhance the visuals of these dead planets, too, making them feel far more desolate, especially when juxtaposed with the newly lusher lush planets. In addition, the isolated feeling provided by dead planets is enhanced, thanks to No Man’s Sky‘s improved lighting, as their gloomy darkness makes them feel more vast and lonely than ever.
Why No Man’s Sky’s Improved Audio Matters
The Next Generation update also made significant changes to audio within No Man’s Sky, and the improved sounds help to make each planet feel different from the last. Whereas players will hear the sounds of animals chirping as they move through lush planets, they will experience a notable silence when on a dead one. Audio also plays a major role on planets with extreme weather, since players may hear the passing of storms as they (hopefully) take shelter within a cave or structure.
While having distinct planets is important for players looking to explore as much of the universe as they can, it is just as crucial for players who prefer to build. Base building has been available in No Man’s Sky since the Foundations update, but the potential for players to create spectacular builds has never been stronger. Since bases can now be built higher and without any limit to their complexity, console players are free to design their homes as they wish. The enhanced options provided to base builders in the update makes choosing the right planet even more important, and players can now be sure they find a world with the best aesthetics to compliment their build.
No Man’s Sky has come a long way since its release, and its move to the newest generation of consoles is an important step for Hello Games’ continued support of the title. Through enhanced graphics, better audio, and more options for customization, players can better immerse themselves in the game’s worlds as they continue to explore amongst the stars.
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