No Man’s Sky Worlds Part II Update Expands Universe with Billions of New Planets

LONDON, U.K. — Hello Games released the highly anticipated Worlds Part II update for No Man’s Sky on January 29, 2025, introducing billions of new star systems and trillions of planets to the game’s ever-expanding universe. The update, available for PS4, PS5, and PS VR2, marks one of the most significant expansions since the game’s launch in 2016.

Sean Murray, founder of Hello Games, announced the update in a PlayStation Blog post, describing it as a continuation of the Worlds Part I update released in 2024. “We’ve been planning the changes in Worlds Part II for a long time, and the wait is finally over,” Murray said. The update aims to enhance the game’s sense of adventure and discovery while preserving the core elements players love.

Worlds Part II introduces a new terrain system featuring massive mountains, deep oceans, and expansive caverns. Players can now explore Gas Giants, planets ten times larger than any previously encountered, though these come with new challenges like gas storms and deep-sea pressure. The update also revamps water gameplay, with improved submarine mechanics, fishing systems, and realistic water physics that react dynamically to environmental changes.

The game’s lighting system has been completely rewritten, offering sharper shadows, detailed ambient occlusion, and stunning reflections on water surfaces. These advancements were partly inspired by Hello Games’ work on their upcoming fantasy title, Light No Fire.

In addition to technical upgrades, Worlds Part II introduces a new questline and lore, deepening the game’s narrative. A new expedition serves as a guided tour of the update’s features, rewarding players with unique items, including a hybrid spacecraft combining elements of a living ship and a jet fighter.

Murray emphasized the team’s commitment to No Man’s Sky, stating, “We’re so thrilled to be able to keep working on this game we all love so much. Our journey continues.” The update signals a promising year for the game, with more content expected throughout 2025.