If you’d told me No Man’s Sky would get a Pokémon-style update on the very same day that Pokémon Champions was released, the only reason I would have believed you is because developer Hello Games’ Sean Murray is an absolute menace.
As it stands, the Xeno Update just launched for No Man’s Sky and flies in the face of the new competitive Pokémon title. While the arguably larger franchise seeks to push microtransactions to limits Bethesda’s horse armor could only have dreamed of, the equivalent update for the best sci-fi game on the planet is 100% free.
Load Up No Man’s Sky Now And Try Out The Better Way To Be The Very Best, Like No One Ever Was
Okay, okay. Jokes aside, there are features in Pokémon Champions I was genuinely curious to try out, such as the ability to trade Pokémon between various titles, as well as those you capture within it, using the game as a thoroughfare. However, I love No Man’s Sky far more than any competitive-only Pokémon title, and now that very special game just got even better.
The Xeno Arena Update is pretty much intergalactic Pokémon. You get an expanded companion roster to fill with creatures you find across the galaxy, each of which has its own natures, tactics, and moves. There are apparently hundreds of potential moves, so you’re going to need to get your grinding hat on to find the best ones initially.
Once you’ve got a decent team, it’s time to challenge NPCs in holo battles and other real-world players whenever you feel brave enough. There are new exclusive rewards, including zany player titles, for those who win enough battles and work their way through the league ranks.
What I’m most excited to experiment with is the breeding mechanic. You can alter just about everything about your Companions through genetic manipulation or messing around with eggs to find the strongest Companions possible.
With an entire galaxy to scour for incredible beasts, leagues to fight in, daily challenges, and a whole host of fun cosmetics to unlock, No Man’s Sky just had an entirely new game added to it. Needless to say, if you’ve been on the fence about this one, hop off and join us players.
If you’re worried about No Man’s Sky getting hit with a lawsuit for breaching copyright, then don’t be. Nintendo’s Pokémon patent has been rejected, meaning the core mechanics of the series are free for any developer to use, as they should be.
If I had to pick a game to play to wait for Pokémon Winds and Waves, it would now be No Man’s Sky. Make sure you follow us on all our socials and check out our free Patreon membership so you can keep up with even more news on games like this.
Leave a Reply