No Man's Sky Nintendo Switch 2 Review - Is It Worth It?

Summary

In this review of *No Man's Sky* for the Nintendo Switch 2, Alex from Nintendo Life takes a deep dive into the game’s evolution, highlighting the impressive updates since its rocky 2016 launch. With the recent Beacon update, the game introduces new settlement management, base building, and combat improvements. The Switch 2 version stands out with enhanced visuals and smoother performance, offering a near-console-quality experience on a portable device. While combat and space simulation may not satisfy hardcore fans, the vast, colorful universe and accessibility options make this a must-play for adventure lovers. The review wraps up with a solid 9/10 rating.

Takeaways

• 🚀 No Man's Sky on Nintendo Switch 2 is a major improvement over the original Switch version, offering a smooth, visually impressive experience.
• 🎮 The game has evolved significantly since its 2016 launch, now delivering the features and gameplay Hello Games originally promised.
• 🏠 The latest Beacon update introduces settlement management, base upgrades, new structures, and enemy types, adding more depth to base building.
• 🛸 The game still attempts to do a lot at once, so some systems like combat and commerce may feel less polished compared to dedicated genres.
• 🌌 The core strength of the game lies in its immersive space exploration, with a vast, colorful universe to explore and get lost in.
• 📈 Performance and visuals on Switch 2 are comparable to PS4 and Xbox One, with minimal stutters and improved clarity over the first Switch version.
• 🌐 Multiplayer is now fully accessible on Switch 2, resolving previous limitations found on the original Switch hardware.
• ⚙️ A wide array of accessibility options are included, from motion aiming and button layouts to HUD scaling and frame rate unlocking.
• 📊 Performance can vary between planets, but VRR and unlocked frame rates help provide a smoother handheld experience.
• ⭐ Overall, No Man's Sky Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is considered an almost perfect port, earning a 9/10 rating for delivering a vast, evolving space survival adventure.

Q & A

What was the initial launch reception of No Man's Sky in 2016?

No Man's Sky had a rocky start at its initial launch in 2016, with players feeling disappointed as the game did not live up to the lofty promises made during its marketing. The development team, while small, was determined, but the game’s early form left many players 'miffed'.

What makes the Nintendo Switch 2 version of No Man's Sky stand out?

The Nintendo Switch 2 version of No Man's Sky stands out by offering a beefed-up, visually improved experience, running smoothly compared to the previous Switch version. It also includes the latest 'Beacon Update,' which adds settlement management features and more content, alongside multiplayer support.

What new features does the 'Beacon Update' bring to the game?

The 'Beacon Update' introduces settlement management tools, allowing players to influence settlements and their alien inhabitants. It also adds new features like auto-phase enemy types, base infestations, building upgrades, and new base structures.

How has the gameplay of No Man's Sky evolved over the years?

Over the years, No Man's Sky has expanded significantly with many updates, including flying and tameable pet pals, improved combat, space dogfights, freighters, and corrupted planets. The game has evolved into a much deeper and richer experience, though combat remains a bit simplistic.

What are some of the criticisms of No Man's Sky's combat system?

The combat system in No Man's Sky is seen as functional but not exceptional. While it serves the game's overall experience, it doesn’t compare to more action-focused games, and players who are used to more complex space sims may find it too simplistic.

How does No Man's Sky's atmosphere contribute to its appeal?

The atmosphere of No Man's Sky is one of its biggest draws. The game immerses players in a vast, colorful, and ever-changing universe, where exploration and discovery are central. The game allows players to get lost in their own little loops of interest, creating a unique sense of adventure.

How does the Switch 2 version of No Man's Sky perform compared to the Switch One version?

The Switch 2 version performs much better than the Switch One, with improved image clarity and smoother gameplay. It can now run almost on par with previous generation consoles like the PS4 and Xbox One, offering better frame rates and visual quality, even in portable mode.

What are the performance issues that some players face in No Man's Sky on the Switch 2?

Some players have reported performance issues such as frame rate fluctuations when on dense planets or during loading screens. These issues seem to be related to the unlocked frame rate, though it’s noted that performance improves significantly with Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) in handheld mode.

What multiplayer features are available in the Nintendo Switch 2 version of No Man's Sky?

The Nintendo Switch 2 version includes full multiplayer support, which was not available on the original Switch. This means players can now access all the multiplayer features that were previously missing, allowing for a more complete experience.

What are the key accessibility features in No Man's Sky on the Switch 2?

No Man's Sky on Switch 2 includes an extensive range of accessibility options, such as motion aiming, Joy-Con sensitivity settings, button layouts, HUD scaling, color filters, and frame rate unlocking. These features allow players to tailor the experience to their preferences.