Exploring the Eerie Depths: What to Do With Derelict Freighters in No Man’s Sky
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Derelict freighters in No Man’s Sky are more than just spooky space hulks; they are valuable sources of resources, upgrades, and chilling narratives. These abandoned behemoths, remnants of past misfortunes, offer players a unique gameplay experience that blends exploration, combat, and resource management. So, what exactly do you do with these derelict freighters? In short, you board them, loot valuable resources and data, battle lurking threats, and ultimately use your findings to enhance your own freighter and standing in the game. You’ll be exploring claustrophobic corridors, fighting off alien infestations, and discovering the stories of the freighter’s previous crew. This activity is one of the most lucrative in the game if you are brave enough to take on the dangers.
Delving into the Derelict
The core interaction with a derelict freighter centers on boarding the vessel. Typically, these freighters are sealed shut, requiring you to interact with an airlock terminal computer to gain entry. Once inside, you’ll quickly realize that these abandoned spaces aren’t always safe. Expect reduced movement speed and the inability to use your jetpack, adding to the tension and challenging you to navigate carefully.
Within the freighter’s confines, you’ll find a variety of interconnected rooms. Many of these contain cargo containers filled with valuable resources such as Tainted Metal and Salvaged Frigate Modules. These are key for upgrading your own freighter and purchasing other useful items. However, be prepared for the fact that some rooms are locked, and you might need to break down destructible doors to proceed.
Hazards and Rewards
The abandoned nature of derelict freighters often means you’ll encounter hostile entities, usually nefarious presences that have claimed the vessel as their own. These enemies can range from aggressive alien lifeforms to corrupted security systems. Proper preparation, including strong multi-tool weapons, is crucial for survival.
The rewards for braving these dangers are well worth the risk. Aside from resources, you can often discover Crew Manifests and Captain’s Logs. These items can be sold to either the Guild Envoy for standing with the dominant race of a system or to the Scrap Dealer on the Space Station for Tainted Metal, providing multiple paths for profit. Most importantly, derelict freighters are a key way to gain upgrades for your own freighter which is crucial for progressing further in the game.
How to Find Derelict Freighters
Derelict freighters are not always easy to come across. They can appear when using Pulse Drive, as the starship’s subspace radar will occasionally detect them. However, there’s a more reliable method. By purchasing an Emergency Broadcast Receiver from the Space Station’s Scrap Dealer, you can specifically seek out these derelict ships. Using the receiver while in space will pinpoint a derelict freighter on the local star system.
What to Expect Once You Board
Once you are onboard you will find the atmosphere to be eerie. The lighting is often dim or flickering, the sounds are those of a long abandoned ship, and there is usually an underlying sense of dread. You’ll need to move through the various areas with care, utilizing your scanner and paying attention to sound cues to not be caught off guard. Be on the lookout for resources, locked doors, hostile entities, and the valuable lore items.
Frequently Asked Questions About Derelict Freighters
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the nuances of interacting with derelict freighters in No Man’s Sky:
1. Can I use my jetpack inside a derelict freighter?
No, you cannot use your jetpack inside a derelict freighter. Movement will also be slowed, adding an element of claustrophobia and forcing you to navigate more carefully.
2. How do I initially unseal a derelict freighter?
To unseal a derelict freighter, you must interact with the airlock terminal computer, usually found near the entrance to the freighter.
3. What kinds of resources can I find on derelict freighters?
Common resources found include Tainted Metal and Salvaged Frigate Modules, along with other materials that can be used in crafting.
4. What are Crew Manifests and Captain’s Logs?
These are lore items found on derelict freighters. You can sell them to the Guild Envoy for standing with a specific race or to the Scrap Dealer for Tainted Metal.
5. Do derelict freighters respawn?
Yes, derelict freighters will respawn, allowing you to return to them repeatedly to collect more resources and lore.
6. How can I specifically locate a derelict freighter?
You can locate derelict freighters by using an Emergency Broadcast Receiver purchased from the Space Station’s Scrap Dealer.
7. Are derelict freighters worth exploring?
Yes, they are highly profitable, especially for obtaining Tainted Metal and Salvaged Frigate Modules, as well as lore items. They are very lucrative, especially if you are needing to upgrade your freighter.
8. Are there hostile entities on derelict freighters?
Yes, most derelict freighters are inhabited by hostile entities that you’ll need to combat. Come prepared with a strong multi-tool.
9. Can I repair a crashed derelict freighter?
No, you cannot repair crashed freighters. You can only access derelict freighters that have not been destroyed.
10. Can I steal a derelict freighter?
No, derelict freighters are static objects and cannot be claimed or stolen. You will be exploring the interior of them.
11. What is the best way to get an S-Class Freighter?
An S-Class freighter can be obtained for free after declining the first free freighter you are offered. Then, after three hours and five warps, another battle will spawn, where the freighter will be a Capital ship which will be much better than the first one, and will have a chance to be S-Class. Pirate systems also have a higher chance of having an S-Class freighter, so searching for one there is a good option.
12. Can I lose my frigates in No Man’s Sky?
Yes, if your frigate team rating is lower than the expedition difficulty, there is a chance your frigates could be damaged, and losses could occur.
13. Can I have more than one freighter in No Man’s Sky?
No, you can only own one freighter at a time, but you can manage a fleet of up to 30 frigates from your freighter’s bridge.
14. What happens if I decline the first freighter I’m offered?
If you decline the first freighter offered, you will be offered a second one for free after 3 hours and 5 warps. The second one will always be a Capital ship, which is better than the first, and may be a better class.
15. What happens to my existing freighter base when I buy a new one?
When you buy a new freighter, your existing freighter base is automatically transferred to the new one. You do not need to worry about losing your hard work.
Final Thoughts
Derelict freighters in No Man’s Sky are a great example of a highly rewarding gameplay mechanic that integrates exploration, combat, resource management, and lore. The rewards are worthwhile, as the resources found within the derelict freighters can assist you with upgrading your own freighter and ships, along with increasing your overall net worth. So, if you are looking for an experience that can provide all of this, be sure to seek out and explore these abandoned hulks.