In December, Astroneer will turn nine, and it’s about to receive a substantial DLC. Additionally, a free update is expected.

Astroneer, which focuses on exploration and crafting, shows no signs of slowing down. Developer System Era Softworks has announced Astroneer: Megatech, a paid DLC launching in November alongside a free update, introducing massive new constructions into the explorer’s infrastructure. The free update adds a cargo system—an interplanetary transport network designed to move resources between bases without requiring the little astronauts to manually pilot transports and unload everything. This will be a major blessing for fans of Astroneer’s automation features.

The rest, however, remains quite mysterious. One piece of concept art depicts a vast, glass-roofed greenhouse. Another shows a giant, onion-domed structure that looks as though it could devour entire resource tanks and process them in some massive wheel-like mechanism. There’s also a colossal, ring-shaped platform orbiting a small moon, clearly designed as a central hub for space operations. While impressive, completing it will undoubtedly demand huge amounts of resources.

“In Astroneer: Megatech DLC, players can build massive megastructure projects using both new and existing technology, testing their base-building skills. Each megastructure has its own identity and gameplay, offering new opportunities and rewards. Harness the power of Megatech to take base building and automation to a whole new level! This DLC is fully compatible with existing saves, building upon progress already made in the game. You can start fresh or load your current saves and begin construction! Additionally, this DLC will be released with a free update for all players. The free update introduces new items and a megastructure that enables automated interplanetary transport, allowing you to transfer resources and technology between planets!” wrote System Era Softworks on Steam.

Astroneer is currently available with a 67% discount on Steam until September 8. Meanwhile, System Era Softworks has already announced its next title: Starseeker: Astroneer Expeditions, a multiplayer project inspired by Astroneer but not a direct sequel. The studio has also enlisted Red Kite Games to assist in further development of Astroneer. Red Kite previously worked on Fall Guys and Two Point Hospital.

Source: PCGamer, Steam (Megatech), Steam (Astroneer)