Best Primary Weapons In No Man’s Sky

Summary

Terrain Manipulator can be used as a makeshift weapon against sentinels, but it is the least effective option overall.
Mining Beam, a resource-gathering tool, works well as a weapon in the beginning stages of the game.
Neutron Cannon is a powerful, slow-firing weapon that requires accuracy; Blaze Javelin offers instant damage with full charge.

Initially released in 2016, No Man’s Sky faced significant criticism. However, its developers, Hello Games, vowed to rectify all issues and guaranteed that all future downloadable content for the game would be free of charge, indefinitely. Remarkably, they have remained true to this commitment. After numerous updates, it is now generally acknowledged as one of the top open-world space survival games currently on offer.

In No Man’s Sky (NMS), gameplay combines space and planet exploration, occasionally leading to confrontations requiring weapons. Players have various ground-based first-person shooting options at their disposal, with certain weapons being more effective than others. The best weapon for players largely depends on their preferred combat approach, making the choice a matter of personal preference. This topic is arranged according to the author’s individual preferences.

7. Terrain Manipulator

Can Be Used As A Weapon In A Pinch

Mostly used for extracting ore
Does damage to sentinels

In the game “No Man’s Sky,” the Terrain Manipulator tool is primarily employed for extracting ore from deposits and modifying the landscape by digging holes, leveling the ground, repairing damaged areas, or creating new ones using voxels. However, in certain situations, it can be utilized as an impromptu weapon as well.

This tool can harm sentinels, it’s also useful for creating hiding spots by digging tunnels and provides protection during fights with sentinels. However, it’s important to note that this is the least efficient primary weapon in No Man’s Sky.

6. Mining Beam

A Surprisingly Effective Weapon

Mostly used to mine flora, fauna, and minerals
Works quite well as a weapon

In every new game of No Man’s Sky, players are initially equipped with a Mining Beam. This versatile tool is primarily used for extracting resources from smaller rocks, plants, and creatures. It serves as the primary tool for resource gathering, except when the Terrain Manipulator is needed for specific tasks.

In the early stages of No Man’s Sky (NMS), the Mining Tool functions exceptionally well as both a resource-gathering tool and an effective weapon, making it a valuable asset for players until they acquire a more advanced primary weapon. It proves particularly useful in managing hazardous plant life encounters.

5. Neutron Cannon

Takes Practice To Use Well

High damage charge-based weapon
Requires the player to be accurate

In the game “No Man’s Sky”, some players find great delight in using the Neutron Cannon, while others struggle to adapt to it. By holding down the fire button, you can charge the Neutron Cannon. Once you let go of the fire button, it releases a projectile that heads towards the targeted spot. The longer the weapon is charged, the greater the damage inflicted upon release.

While this weapon delivers significant damage, there’s a catch: it has a slow firing rate. This means that if you miss your target, you’ll need to reload it again. It can be fired with a reduced charge for faster shots, but in such cases, it deals much less damage compared to other primary weapons you might use.

4. Blaze Javelin

Instant Damage Charge Weapon

Very high damage from a full charge
Instant damage application when released

In the mesmerizing universe of No Man’s Sky, I found myself wielding the electrifying Blaze Javelin. Unlike a usual press-and-shoot weapon, this one requires a bit of patience. You charge it by holding down the fire button, and once fully charged, a swift release unleashes its power. Admittedly, it shares some similarities with the Neutron Cannon I’ve used before, but the Blaze Javelin has its unique charm that sets it apart.

Instead of the Neutron Cannon, which fires an energy ball that requires time to reach its target, the Blaze Javelin delivers damage much more swiftly. It emits a rapid discharge right at the target point, causing damage nearly instantaneously.

3. Scatter Blaster

A Shotgun By Another Name

High damage but eats ammo
Great for close-quarters combat

The Scatter Blaster stands out as an ideal primary weapon for those who enjoy intense, close-quarter battles. Essentially, it functions like a shotgun. It discharges a wide pattern of shots causing significant damage, but this effectiveness is limited to relatively short distances.

The main drawback of the Scatter Blaster is its limited ammo capacity and the time needed to reload, which can be a few seconds. However, mastering when to employ the Scatter Blaster as a secondary weapon is definitely worth the investment. In tight combat situations where enemies get too close, this weapon becomes your best choice for quick elimination.

2. Pulse Spitter

A Fairly Rapid Firing Energy Weapon

Best used with upgrades
Pretty good for spray and pray style combat

The Pulse Spitter is an energy-based weapon that shoots small projectiles at the targeted spot. It offers a reasonable firing speed and deals average damage. Initially, it may not be very effective, but by adding a few enhancements, the Pulse Spitter transforms into a highly beneficial primary weapon for players of No Man’s Sky.

The issue with the Pulse Spitter lies in the relatively slow speed of its shots. To effectively hit a target, players must anticipate its movement and adjust their aim accordingly based on the shooting distance. As the distance increases, mastering this weapon becomes increasingly challenging.

1. Boltcaster

Basic But Effective

High rate of fire
High projectile velocity

In simpler terms, you could describe the Boltcaster as “No Man’s Sky’s version of a submachine gun.” It shoots rapidly and the bullets travel swiftly, which makes it simple for players who prefer a ‘spray-and-pray’ style to easily hit their target. Essentially, if you’re playing No Man’s Sky and enjoy this playstyle, the Boltcaster is the best weapon to pick up.

The Boltcaster has minimal drawbacks, primarily its relatively low damage per shot. However, by making strategic upgrades, this standard weapon can transform into a versatile powerhouse suitable for various roles.

2025-07-20 15:05