User Score
4.8

Generally unfavorable reviews- based on 5473 Ratings

User score distribution:
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  1. Aug 9, 2016
    9
    Its not for everyone. I can't stop thinking about going back to it. 4 hrs after release and I had to force myself to go to bed. It is like Elite in the sense you have to use your own imagination a bit while exploring and kind of narrate your own story. Has some issues but the sense of awe and enjoyment of discovery are still there for me. This is a love it or hate it game for sure.
  2. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    A marvel. A wonderful game with a beautiful look, I didn't want to go to sleep. This title, I think, will be engaging to gamers who enjoy exploring without much hand holding. It's a bold experiment, there aren't many devs making procedurally generated titles these days and with any luck Hello Games has shown the others what can be made with this technique.
  3. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    Everything Ive ever hoped for in a space exploration game, beautiful planets, sublime visuals, incredible diversity of plants and animals, aliens languages and the wonderful feeling of the vastness of space that I have never before gotten from a video game. Hello Games have created a wonderful experience and I'm hooked completely, they deserve their applause for not only bucking the trendEverything Ive ever hoped for in a space exploration game, beautiful planets, sublime visuals, incredible diversity of plants and animals, aliens languages and the wonderful feeling of the vastness of space that I have never before gotten from a video game. Hello Games have created a wonderful experience and I'm hooked completely, they deserve their applause for not only bucking the trend and not playing it safe but for putting so much love and care into their work, the video game industry has become stale and its partly for this reason the game has garnered so much attention, it dares to be new and innovative Expand
  4. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    These negative are absurd to say the least. After hours of this game it is an experience that is like
    any other. It's in a class of its own. It's exactly what I knew I was getting. After remaining on the second planet it just shows the depth and detail the game has. And for everyone knocking the graphics- it only shows you haven't touched the game.
  5. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    This is exactly what I was hoping for. Space Opera science fiction is my favorite genre for movies and novels, yet I have never found a space flight game that could really pull me in. After only 6-8 hours with this game, I am happy to say I have found one for me. This game has a ton of depth, a very interesting universe to explore and decent combat mechanics. I was surprised that theThis is exactly what I was hoping for. Space Opera science fiction is my favorite genre for movies and novels, yet I have never found a space flight game that could really pull me in. After only 6-8 hours with this game, I am happy to say I have found one for me. This game has a ton of depth, a very interesting universe to explore and decent combat mechanics. I was surprised that the masses were as interested in this game as they were when it was announced, it seemed like a pretty niche game. I can't help but feel like a lot of the negative reviews are people who the game quite simply wasn't made for.

    If you are an action game junkie or someone that only ever plays AAA games, be wary, this is an independent game that got its scope blown up because of hype. It may not be your cup of tea. However, if exploring space and experiencing the scope of the universe while surviving in hostile environments and just enjoying the immersion of it all, sounds like your cup of tea, you should definitely pick it up.

    The game feels complete already as a unique hybrid of MMO space game with a survival game like Minecraft or Ark. But I can imagine with the base building and other features the developer has coming and the other additions, it will become a truly engrossing experience.

    I can already tell I will be putting an ungodly amount of time into this. See past the BS angry reviews by teenagers who want another COD or have unrealistic expectations of these independent developers and enjoy exploring the universe!
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  6. Aug 9, 2016
    9
    After playing this game for about 5 hours so far here are my thoughts on it. First of all you can ignore all the low reviews as **** is trying to make this the lowest rated game in history. Secondly I feel the game has delivered EXACTLY what was promised. After 3+ years of development and countless articles, interviews etc I just got what I thought I was getting. I haven't seen anyAfter playing this game for about 5 hours so far here are my thoughts on it. First of all you can ignore all the low reviews as **** is trying to make this the lowest rated game in history. Secondly I feel the game has delivered EXACTLY what was promised. After 3+ years of development and countless articles, interviews etc I just got what I thought I was getting. I haven't seen any frame rate issues or graphic problems yet. I'm loving the game. Before you buy check out Twitch or YouTube streams to see what you are getting in to. Expand
  7. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    Exceptional Exploration Game. I just spent 4 hours walking around on the same planet. Listening to my favourite pink flood albums, whilst mining, then selling resources. Outstanding.
  8. Aug 10, 2016
    8
    The game is intended for a niche crowd, if you like chill space exploration games and don't mind some repeating elements, you'll like it. I suggest watching unbiased gameplay vids to solidify your opinion, these metacritic reviews are usually either trollw or fanboys, they don' paint the picture you're looking for.
  9. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    Every bit as beautiful as I hoped for. The real struggle is trying to keep focused on one task, keep having moments of "oh! would you look at that" the only thing I'm going to say is the PS4 struggles I'm lucky enough to have bought it on both platforms and it's looking like the PC is going to be king here.
  10. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    Simply put, This title is amazing. Its what many of old-school gamers have wanted a space adventure game to be since we first started on console or PC. Put in equal parts planetary exploration and survival, you get an amazing title that has a potential for a very long shelf life. What I find interesting is many trolls (more than likely tweens/teens on summer break) are giving this titleSimply put, This title is amazing. Its what many of old-school gamers have wanted a space adventure game to be since we first started on console or PC. Put in equal parts planetary exploration and survival, you get an amazing title that has a potential for a very long shelf life. What I find interesting is many trolls (more than likely tweens/teens on summer break) are giving this title bad ratings because there's a learning curve. Expand
  11. Aug 10, 2016
    9
    I've only got a few hours in on the game thus far, but I'm quite enjoying myself. I haven't experienced any frame rate issues that some people are complaining about. The game has been running smoothly (I do have a very fast internet connection.)

    I can see why this game might not appeal to some people. I enjoy exploring and upgrading things. Perhaps this might get repetitive at some
    I've only got a few hours in on the game thus far, but I'm quite enjoying myself. I haven't experienced any frame rate issues that some people are complaining about. The game has been running smoothly (I do have a very fast internet connection.)

    I can see why this game might not appeal to some people. I enjoy exploring and upgrading things. Perhaps this might get repetitive at some point but I'm sure that there is a lot that I haven't seen yet, and that new content will get added on a regular basis.

    The media hype on this game was too much... and expectations were too lofty

    UPDATE: I'm now about 6 hours into the game. I've increased my score from 8 to 9. I'm absolutely fascinated by the game and the depth. I've been to several planets now, two space stations, and have met a few different races (one of which was uber unfriendly to me.) The game is certainly geared towards exporation type players. My biggest gripe thus far has been the lack of inventory space. It is extremely limited.
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  12. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    Ok..... so just want to be clear for a second. the people who are giving this game a bad review OBVIOUSLY DO NOT know what the game actually is. THIS is a exploration game not whatever you want it to be by saying it is repetitive and boring...... then this game is not for you.... Sean Murray has said multiple times it is a exploration game not a star citizen type game as some people claimOk..... so just want to be clear for a second. the people who are giving this game a bad review OBVIOUSLY DO NOT know what the game actually is. THIS is a exploration game not whatever you want it to be by saying it is repetitive and boring...... then this game is not for you.... Sean Murray has said multiple times it is a exploration game not a star citizen type game as some people claim they expected in their review. this game is great and people who truly know what this game is will know that it is a great game and many of us can not wait for it on PC. and a ton of people are complaining about low fps (below 30 fps) it is the first day it actually has been released so chill... it will probably be fixed soon. so please don,t read all the of the bad reviews.... if you like exploring and space games you will like it. Sean Murray said it was an exploration game just remember that. thank you. Expand
  13. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    Gorgeous game. If you're the sort of person who ever looked up at the stars at night and felt a sense of wonder about the sheer size of the universe, and dreamed of exploring it and wondering what else is out there, this game will appeal to that part of you.
  14. Aug 9, 2016
    9
    I honestly love this game, so much time and effort has gone into making this and it really shows. Please do not be put off by the negative reviews on here, there is a lot of trolling from rival console users and members of **** Wait for the pc reviews or for actual game review websites. It truly is a marvel
  15. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    I'm really enjoying it, the game is exactly what I expected it to be, and more. It's amazing that it was made by such a small team, huge effort. If you like exploration, and playing your own way, you'll enjoy this one.
  16. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    Great space sim, endless variety and fun to explore. Started out as a trader and when I found I was doing the same thing over and over (what a trader does) I moved to some mild piracy (blatantly murdering NPCs for their cargo) and focued more on the exploration aspects (currently lost in a cave network.) Can't put it down, going to work with no sleep.
  17. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    The game is amazing! Every planet is a different challenge, every place a surprise! I was born in a radioative planet that I had to run for my life, everything in that planet was mean to kill me... after I got a different spaceship I went to other planet with a landscape similar with moon, but full of lakes and no animal life, the atmosphere was different, I was following a alien sinal forThe game is amazing! Every planet is a different challenge, every place a surprise! I was born in a radioative planet that I had to run for my life, everything in that planet was mean to kill me... after I got a different spaceship I went to other planet with a landscape similar with moon, but full of lakes and no animal life, the atmosphere was different, I was following a alien sinal for help and I dont know what happened that i forgot time... looking for old buildings, I didn't realize that the heavier atmosphere was consuming my energy faster than usual... If I had not left the planet I would be stuck there forever! It was amazing experience!

    Do not listen to very bad reviews ... people are lazy and never read enough to understand what this game is ! They are still crying for multiplayer and other things, but did not realize that if they are looking for more of the same thing that they have had no need to play NMS. This game is unique and will always be a different amazing adventure every day!
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  18. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    I'm only 7 hours in so far, haven't even left my first solar system since I'm experimenting with collecting all of the Gek language. That said, I have found the experience very enjoyable so far. It remiinds me more of a survival game then an exploration style game. But thats not a bad thing in my opinion. It is for sure one of those games that I feel you will either love it, or hate it.I'm only 7 hours in so far, haven't even left my first solar system since I'm experimenting with collecting all of the Gek language. That said, I have found the experience very enjoyable so far. It remiinds me more of a survival game then an exploration style game. But thats not a bad thing in my opinion. It is for sure one of those games that I feel you will either love it, or hate it. There is not alot of middle ground here. Expand
  19. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    Solid exploration. A divise game. Not for all. Specially not for ones looking for space minecraft. Please borrow from someone if you are not aware of the gameplay.
  20. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    This game is obviously not designed for everybody. It is a slow-moving, exploration, survival, RPG. The negative reviews you are hearing about are coming mostly from the people that were expecting "Minecraft in Space". I personally can't get enough of this game. A vast, endless universe with billions of new and exciting languages, creatures, environments, intelligent life, etc. A WHOLEThis game is obviously not designed for everybody. It is a slow-moving, exploration, survival, RPG. The negative reviews you are hearing about are coming mostly from the people that were expecting "Minecraft in Space". I personally can't get enough of this game. A vast, endless universe with billions of new and exciting languages, creatures, environments, intelligent life, etc. A WHOLE GALAXY to explore and scavenge. If you're looking for fast and exciting gameplay, look elsewhere because the gameplay is not what the game is about. It's about discovery and curiosity. I feel so immersed in the game's galaxy and am loving it. I would recommend to any wannabe space explorers because this fits the bill. Thank you Hello Games for providing another excellent video game! Expand
  21. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    I just find a Tropical Planet made of Gold, traveled in a Black Hole and see a pyramidal-space-base.
    Ignore the critics, play yourself, No Man's Sky isn't "same planets, different colors"
  22. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    Simply amazing. For obvious reasons this game isn´t for all audiences. This is why a dark side of the internet is trolling about the game. Go home, please, and shut up.
    The game itself is enormous, full of possibilities. A perfect soundtrack. And a very good crafting/selling/exploring/surviving/fighting/upgrading system, BECAUSE THIS IS IT, this game is all about:
    -Crafting. -Selling.
    Simply amazing. For obvious reasons this game isn´t for all audiences. This is why a dark side of the internet is trolling about the game. Go home, please, and shut up.
    The game itself is enormous, full of possibilities. A perfect soundtrack. And a very good crafting/selling/exploring/surviving/fighting/upgrading system, BECAUSE THIS IS IT, this game is all about:
    -Crafting.
    -Selling.
    -Upgrading.
    -Exploring.
    -Surviving.
    -Fighting.

    For some people these can be poor. For some people this can we awesome when mixed with the gorgeus sci-fi look of the game. Thats all.
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  23. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    Giving this game a bad rating because you expect something else is truly unfair to HG. The developer has delivered on everything they promised, and as someone who followed this game very closely for 3 years, it's exceeded my expectations thus far. This is a game more akin to Journey or Minecraft than it is to Battlefront or CoD. Don't expect INSTANT action at all times. This is a game forGiving this game a bad rating because you expect something else is truly unfair to HG. The developer has delivered on everything they promised, and as someone who followed this game very closely for 3 years, it's exceeded my expectations thus far. This is a game more akin to Journey or Minecraft than it is to Battlefront or CoD. Don't expect INSTANT action at all times. This is a game for people who appreciate nuances, and an ethereal experience that can be played for hours at a time. The game looks and feels amazing. People complaining about FOV, did you ever think that maybe it was done to simulate the feeling of wearing a mask/helmet? Either way, this game is everything they said it would be, and now that it's in my hands, I feel a sense of relief that it's everything I wanted it to be. Expand
  24. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    So much overrated! Don't play this crap! Everything is so empty. Not much you expect that. So, don't play this game really. Empty world, and boring as f*ck give me my money!
  25. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    Absolutely amazing, flying around in a space ship over a planet and looking at the scenery is pure bliss. Then choosing anywhere to land and explore. So much fun! I can't wait to fully upgrade my suit and get a better weapon and fully upgrade it. THEN I really want to find a really cool looking ship (the one I started with looks great too, but i've seen better) and upgrade it so I canAbsolutely amazing, flying around in a space ship over a planet and looking at the scenery is pure bliss. Then choosing anywhere to land and explore. So much fun! I can't wait to fully upgrade my suit and get a better weapon and fully upgrade it. THEN I really want to find a really cool looking ship (the one I started with looks great too, but i've seen better) and upgrade it so I can takeover solar systems and destroy some space stations. It's also fun naming planets, solar systems and creatures. I can see playing this game for YEARS! It will be so great once PSVR comes out and playing in VR! I can't wait for that day. Expand
  26. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    Firstly , I have preordered the game ..to be released tonight in Blighty . Im a fan of Elite and I loved games like Starglider and starglider 2 on the Amiga platform many years ago. Yep , im an "old" gamer (54 to be truthful) but hey , im young at heart and to be honest this game is right up my street. I'm a bit disappointed with people "pulling it apart " on day one . This game is madeFirstly , I have preordered the game ..to be released tonight in Blighty . Im a fan of Elite and I loved games like Starglider and starglider 2 on the Amiga platform many years ago. Yep , im an "old" gamer (54 to be truthful) but hey , im young at heart and to be honest this game is right up my street. I'm a bit disappointed with people "pulling it apart " on day one . This game is made for people with patience and imagination , and creativity . I really do take peoples point about repetition but im sure they would be the first to admit that their goal was to be able to fly around destroying everything in their path. They are missing the point of the game and indeed the whole experience . We HAVE to congratulate Hello Games for a remarkable achievement of even producing a game this vast. And their commitment to future "FREE"updates should be applauded . I for one can't wait for midnight to arrive . Expand
  27. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    Wanted a game like this since I was young. If exploring and space is your thing then you will love this game. Flying around in your spaceship with thousands and thousands of planets to visit!
  28. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    First of all, I think that those who are expecting a traditional triple A game are going to be disapointed, as well as those who are waiting for a indie game. No Man´s Sky is very unique, and with that comes a difficulty in puting a label onto it. So far, I´ve played for 10 hours and explored a bunch of planets. There is a very clear resource gathering and crafting cycle, more proeminentFirst of all, I think that those who are expecting a traditional triple A game are going to be disapointed, as well as those who are waiting for a indie game. No Man´s Sky is very unique, and with that comes a difficulty in puting a label onto it. So far, I´ve played for 10 hours and explored a bunch of planets. There is a very clear resource gathering and crafting cycle, more proeminent than some people might like. For me, though, it works great punctuating my planet exploration with some tense survival moments; without that, I think that the game would feel to bland. Anyway, I´m having a blast so far not only with the gigantic scale of the universe, but with the actual gameplay survival, exploration, fighting mechanics... If you are open minded about games, You´ll certainly will have a great time with No Man´s Sky... On the other hando, if you expect a shooter, just go play COD... Expand
  29. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    No man's sky creative a new perspective for the game world. Definitely, deserves to respect. There most voters not the play game yet. Also xbox fans are intense attack.
  30. Aug 9, 2016
    10
    A beautiful, interactive universe that will be your game of the year if you purchase with the right expectations of what this game is. This is a game driven by your will to explore, discover, and build. Murray and Co. added a lot in the first update of the game, and will be adding quite a bit more in each new installment of update. Thus, there is a lot more content to come along with theA beautiful, interactive universe that will be your game of the year if you purchase with the right expectations of what this game is. This is a game driven by your will to explore, discover, and build. Murray and Co. added a lot in the first update of the game, and will be adding quite a bit more in each new installment of update. Thus, there is a lot more content to come along with the great stuff already in the game!

    There is A LOT more to do in this game that other people fail to realize or let on. It is almost mind-bending at how big the universe really is, and it is a real pleasure to explore it! That even goes without mentioning the space combat, and ground combat!

    If you're into a DIY exploration game that is world class, then buy it and never look back!
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Metascore
71

Mixed or average reviews - based on 96 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 41 out of 96
  2. Negative: 1 out of 96
  1. May 8, 2020
    80
    While I’m sure developer Hello Games is still tweaking things and perhaps even creating more content for No Man’s Sky, the current state of affairs is a strong one. This galactic opus still offers an infinite amount of content for those who want to lose themselves among the stars, but now also contains a concrete throughline that will satisfy a wider array of players. It can be irritating at times, but it’s also full of stunning moments and the satisfaction of building a virtual life among the stars. Four years after launch, it’s finally a journey worth taking.
  2. Feb 10, 2017
    60
    The world of No Man's Sky is insanely vast and beautiful, but there’s nothing to do in it! There’s no goal, no destination, no ending, nothing!
  3. Dec 1, 2016
    60
    While No Man's Sky is engrossing for the first few hours, repetition starts to set in and the proceedings grow dull. The developers stated that they plan to add significant features such as base building which could dramatically change the game for the better. There's a promising foundation present, so it's possible to envision a more substantial game down the line. As it currently stands, though, our excitement to cross the universe faded sooner than we expected.