‘No Man’s Sky: Next’ Update Release Date, Features: Next Major Patch Brings Full Multiplayer Promised at 2016 Launch

When “No Man’s Sky” was launched almost two years ago, one major cause of disappointment was the lack of a full multiplayer gameplay that the Hello Games developers previously promised. But, on a good note, they are going to rectify that as the “No Man’s Sky: Next” update goes live next week.

To say that the launch of this open-world, action-adventure survival game had been upsetting to many fans might be an understatement. But developers of “No Man’s Sky” deserve credit for not giving up on the title. And the upcoming “No Man’s Sky: Next” update is the expected culmination of their post-launch hard work.

This upcoming major patch was first announced in March. And the developers are already set on a good start as they delivered on their promise of releasing the “No Man’s Sky: Next” update in summer. But a lot of players would agree that the biggest reason to celebrate this patch is the major gameplay adjustments teased in a trailer released on Tuesday.

The “No Man’s Sky: Next” update trailer boasts several scenes showcasing multiplayer gameplay. The video opens with three players exploring the underwater world. In the following scenes, the trailer also briefly demonstrates how players can run around the woods or fly their spaceships together with other gamers.

In an accompanying blog post, the developers of the “No Man’s Sky: Next” update confirmed that these activities can be done by teaming up with “a small team of friends.” But if some players prefer finishing tasks alone, they can join other as “random travelers” without committing to working together as a squad.

However, having friends on a team has several perks. Once the “No Man’s Sky: Next” update goes live, teammates can help players “stay alive or prey on others to survive.” As a team, players can build structures together that range from shabby shelters to intricate colonies.

Squads can also go on spaceship battles together. But to avoid confusion among teammates, the “No Man’s Sky: Next” update will also allow players to customize the appearance of their characters.

The changes and improvements brought by “No Man’s Sky: Next” update do not end in the multiplayer gameplay aspect. Soon, players can choose to explore the universe in third or first person. Restrictions in building bases have also been lifted; players can now build “anywhere on any planet.”

On top of it all, the “No Man’s Sky: Next” update will be available to all players for free. It is slated to go live on Tuesday, July 24.