No Man’s Sky is heading to iPhone and iPad. Hello Games has confirmed an October 28 launch, and pre-orders are already open on the App Store.
This isn’t a cut-down mobile spin-off. It’s the full space exploration game, with ten years of updates included. Here’s what it costs, which devices can run it and what to expect at launch.
Release Date and Price
No Man’s Sky arrives on iPhone and iPad on October 28. Some App Store listings currently show October 29, so the exact launch time may depend on your region.
The game is free to download, and you can play the opening section before you pay anything. After that, a one-time purchase of $19.99 unlocks the full game. There’s no subscription, and one purchase covers both iPhone and iPad.
What’s Included at Launch
According to Hello Games, the iOS version includes the game’s full decade of free updates, up to and including the recent Cosmos update with space station ownership. You can fly between planets, build bases and explore the same huge universe as on PC and console.
However, it isn’t a perfect match yet. MobileGamer.biz reports that multiplayer and planetary settlements are the main features missing at launch. Hello Games also hasn’t said whether progress from PC or console carries over, so plan on starting a fresh journey.
Which iPhones and iPads Can Run It
The requirements are fairly modest for a game of this size:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Software | iOS 26 or iPadOS 26 |
| Chip | A12 Bionic or newer (iPhone XS and later) |
| Storage | About 3.8 GB |
| Controls | Touch, controller or mouse and keyboard |
You can also cast the game to a TV and play with a controller, which makes an iPad feel close to a console.
Paying With an Apple Gift Card
Like any App Store purchase, the $19.99 unlock can be paid with your Apple Account balance. An Apple gift card tops that balance up without a bank card, and our guide on how to pay for Apple without a card walks through the steps.
Pick the card for your Apple Account’s country. For a US account, a 25 USD card covers the unlock with room for sales tax. In euro stores such as Germany, France, Spain or Italy, a 25 EUR card is a safe choice.
Once the balance is ready, you only need to wait for October 28 and tap download.