Maximizing Your Nanite Haul: The Ultimate Guide to Nanite Farming in No Man’s Sky

The elusive Nanite, the primary currency for technological upgrades in No Man’s Sky, is essential for progressing and fully enjoying the game’s myriad of features. Whether you are aiming to acquire an S-Class starship, install top-tier upgrades, or refine your gear, nanites are crucial. But with so many different methods available, which are the most effective for quickly accumulating this valuable resource? In short, while there are several viable strategies, refining Hadal Cores stands out as the absolute fastest method for obtaining nanites. However, other reliable sources and methods can supplement your nanite income. This article will explore all the best approaches to ensure you’re flush with nanites.

The Undisputed King: Hadal Core Refinement

Why Hadal Cores Are Supreme

Hadal Cores refined in a refiner produce a remarkable 50 Nanites per core, which is unmatched by any other raw material or refinement process. This makes them the most efficient single item for converting into nanites, bar none. The refinement process itself is relatively quick, making it a rapid source of the currency. While Hadal Cores can be a bit scarce, knowing where to find them and how to effectively farm them is key to a steady flow of nanites.

Where to Obtain Hadal Cores

Hadal Cores are primarily acquired by defeating Abyssal Horrors on Oceanic Planets. Look for large groups of these hostile creatures often found lurking near underwater structures. Once eliminated, they will usually drop Hadal Cores upon death, making a continuous cycle of battling and harvesting a viable nanite farming strategy. Be prepared for a fight, however, as these creatures can be formidable, especially in groups.

Other Effective Methods for Nanite Accumulation

While Hadal Core refinement is the most efficient, relying on a variety of methods will make your nanite income even more robust.

Sentinel Interceptors: Hyaline Brain Bonanza

Sentinel Interceptors, those menacing robotic foes, are a great source of nanites. Each Hyaline Brain dropped upon their destruction can be refined into 260 Nanites. This makes hunting these flying menaces a highly profitable activity. Seek out planets with aggressive sentinel activity and be prepared for some intense combat.

Runaway Mould: A Consistent, If Slower, Stream

Runaway Mould can be refined into Nanite Clusters, although at a lower rate than Hadal Cores. While refining 5 Runaway Moulds yields only 1 nanite, large-scale farming of these nodes, which can be found on various planets, combined with a well-established refining setup can accumulate a sizeable quantity over time. It isn’t as efficient per item, but the sheer quantity that can be gathered can make up for it.

Discoveries: Upload for Nanites

The simple act of exploring and uploading your discoveries is often overlooked, but is a consistent source of nanites. Each planet, flora, fauna, and location you discover can be uploaded to the game servers, giving you a reward of nanites. Don’t forget to scan everything you can to maximize your yield.

Refining Larval Cores

Similar to Hadal Cores, Larval Cores refine into 50 Nanites per unit, placing them at the top of refinement efficiency. However, they are acquired in a more risky and cumbersome manner, usually found inside infested buildings. The time required to obtain them might be better spent elsewhere.

Completing Missions

Taking on various missions from the Space Anomaly or Space Stations often rewards nanites, especially those of the more challenging varieties. While mission rewards might vary, consistently engaging with the mission system adds a good layer to your nanite earnings.

Derelict Freighters: Loot and Nanites

Exploring Derelict Freighters can be a dangerous endeavor but one filled with the promise of good rewards including nanites. The scrap you obtain from derelicts contains a significant amount of nanites, along with other useful resources and items.

The Outlaw Station Glitch (Use at Your Discretion)

The “infinite nanite” method involving the Salvage Dealer at Outlaw Stations is an exploit that might not be intended by the developers. Essentially, you buy an upgrade module, sell it back for a higher price, and repeat. While effective, this method may compromise the organic progression of the game. Use this at your own discretion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What exactly are Nanites used for in No Man’s Sky?

Nanites are used primarily for purchasing technology upgrades, starship upgrades, multi-tool upgrades, and various other blueprints at Space Stations, the Space Anomaly, and from other vendors.

2. Is it possible to get unlimited nanites in No Man’s Sky?

There are various exploits and methods that some players consider “infinite”, particularly the Outlaw Station Salvage Dealer exploit, however, it’s not an intended feature of the game and could be patched out by developers.

3. How do I find Hadal Cores in No Man’s Sky?

Hadal Cores are typically dropped by Abyssal Horrors which are found on Oceanic Planets near underwater structures.

4. Is Runaway Mould a good way to farm nanites?

While not as efficient on a per-item basis, Runaway Mould is a consistent source of nanites if you set up a good farming location. The sheer volume of mould you can gather makes it viable.

5. What is the most efficient way to convert Runaway Mould to nanites?

Refine 5 Runaway Moulds in a refiner for a very small number of nanites. The efficiency per mould is not good, but again, volume can make up for this.

6. How do I get Hyaline Brains for Nanites?

Hyaline Brains are obtained by destroying Sentinel Interceptors. Each Hyaline Brain can be refined into 260 nanites, making this a valuable farming method.

7. What is the quickest way to earn nanites?

As mentioned, refining Hadal Cores is the absolute quickest way per item, and by hunting abyssal horrors in groups.

8. Where can I find derelict freighters?

Derelict freighters can be found using a Distress Signal Receiver purchased from the Scrap Dealer on Space Stations. These are then found at random in space and must be entered through a specific door.

9. Is it better to explore and upload discoveries or farm for nanites?

Both approaches are essential. Uploading discoveries is a good, consistent stream while farming resources like Hadal Cores and Hyaline Brains are more efficient in short bursts.

10. What other items can be refined for nanites?

Larval Cores, Salvaged Data, Tainted Metal, Platinum, and Pugnium can also be refined, but their efficiency is lower than Hadal Cores and Hyaline Brains.

11. How many nanites can I get from a derelict freighter?

A typical derelict freighter can yield between 1,500 and 4,000 nanites, along with other resources.

12. Can I get nanites from missions?

Yes, completing missions from the Space Anomaly, Space Stations, and other sources can reward nanites, but it’s not always the main reward.

13. Are there any glitches to get unlimited nanites?

Yes, The Outlaw Station Salvage Dealer method is a known exploit for gaining an infinite supply of nanites. However, using glitches may compromise your gameplay experience.

14. Are there any risks involved with farming Sentinels?

Yes, hunting Sentinels can be dangerous, especially if they escalate to higher waves. Be prepared for combat, and have appropriate upgrades to withstand their attacks.

15. What’s the best method for a new player to get nanites?

For new players, the best approach is to explore and upload discoveries, and complete a few starter missions. Once geared up, they can focus on farming Hadal Cores and Hyaline Brains for quick gains.

By utilizing a combination of these methods, players can ensure they have a steady stream of Nanites to continue exploring the vast and complex universe of No Man’s Sky. Remember, consistency is key, and the most rewarding paths involve more than just one approach. Happy exploring!