Flying from space to a planet's surface happens without an intervening loading screen in No Man's Sky, a science-fiction exploration and survival game for iPhone and iPad.
Land and gather resources. Decide what your next trip needs. More cargo space supports trading; a better suit lets you explore hostile environments, while ship and weapon upgrades open a more combative route. Crafting and inventory work sit between those expeditions, so the appeal depends partly on whether preparing for a journey is enjoyable in itself. The touch interface covers walking and flight, with controller support also confirmed by Hello Games.
I like the possibility of a self-directed trip that changes scale so dramatically. The developer's iOS announcement is also clear about the compromises: multiplayer is absent, and planetary settlements have stricter hardware requirements than the base game. This is a solo visit to that universe.
Several November App Store players want cross-progression with their existing console or PC saves. The menus draw criticism too: one player praised the touch layout while finding inventory crafting laborious. Those reports make me cautious about treating the phone version as a continuation of an established game elsewhere.
I'd consider this version for someone ready to begin a separate, patient exploration. Check the supported-device list before choosing it for an older iPhone or iPad.
