What drew you to play No Man's Sky initially?
I had heard of the game through an article in The Atlantic magazine from 2014. The idea of a universe sized sandbox with a near endless number of planets to explore all with a style reminiscent of classic science fiction art work, fed into my passions. The unknown vistas, the chance to explore places that I’d might be the only person to ever see, provided me with the fulfillment of those child like dreams of being an explorer.
Now that you're an experienced NMS player, what do you think of the game?
While the game at launch was in need of much work, I still loved the art style, the soundtrack, and the themes of the game. The game, in all its forms, throughout the numerous updates, still captures my imagination. No Man’s Sky is not for everyone, but for me, it continues to scratch the itch of an adventurer and explorer; with hidden views beyond unknown horizons.
How did you become interested in base building?
I remember seeing Reddit posts from players like Ologolos, NMSKibbles that shared structures and unique ways of using the small set of parts that originally came with the game. I loved the idea of “leaving your mark” on the empty and barren universe. The small chance of stumbling on a base at the edge of the galaxy added to the excitement of exploration.
What is it about building bases that you enjoy most?
I think, for me, it is creating experiences to roam and explore. I’d add to that, I find it incredibly relaxing. I used to build plastic model kits for most of my life, and the ability to built without glue, paint, or taking up space in the house is a wonderful way to have a creative outlet without mess and extra “stuff” around.
How would you describe your design aesthetic?
I believe I’m known as an Industrial Designer. The majority of my builds lean more towards factories, mining and more brutal design. Ultimately, I strive to build an experience, a destination that tries to be more grounded; realistic.
Where do you find your design inspirations?
I like to search LEGO moc builder sites as well as architectural sites, fantasy and science fiction images and also check out what is being done by others in the community via YT, Reddit, X and Facebook.
Do you usually have a clear picture of what you're going to build before you start?
I usually have an idea in mind before starting. This question is tough, as I may think about an idea, and how to pull off a glitch trick or something similar for sometime, and then once comfortable in my mind, start the process. Going into the project with something in mind helps speed up my build time, and also helps me avoid rebuilding things to make the whole project work.
How do you choose locations for your builds?
Firstly, I love canyons! I look for them as I can use the canyon walls to skip building all four sides of an object. I also building “into terrain” as I feel this makes things look much more realistic; as if the structures have been there for some time, or built by an engineer who works with what surrounds them. I’m also a huge fan of the games weather effects, so I might often look for planets with extreme weather just to create some atmosphere around the build.
Tell us a little about your thought process when you begin a build.
I really want my finished product to come out as realistic as possible with the parts we have at our disposal, and I can only offer I don’t start anything without some version of the complete project in mind. I don’t pick up the controller until I know where I’m going with it.
What techniques and tools do you use?
I certainly use many known glitch techniques, but I use no Blender or PC help. I admire those that do use Blender, as it is often as difficult if not more to use to make certain things in game.
How do these techniques and tools fit into your process?
As a glitch builder, I know that a framework or scaffold is needed to make the build cohesive and connected. A build that might take me 10 hours; about 2 hours of that is prepping a foundation for the build so I’ll have contact point to reference, and a way to keep every floor panel , wall, door, cube and item in line and connected.
What are the pros and cons you encounter by using these techniques and tools?
Framework makes the dream work, people! I think the only “con” can be deleting that one key piece too soon and regretting getting ahead of the project out of excitement.
What do you find most challenging about building in NMS?
I haven’t felt challenged so much as idea hungry. I occasionally, like others, go through creative dry spells.
How do you deal with a design that just isn't working?
Stop and walk away from it. Watch TV, grab some food and not think about it. Frustration leads to disappointment and that is a creative killer. Its best to let some ideas simmer.
Has there been any specific design type or style you've not found a way to create?
Some builders can do some amazing things; kaleidoscopes, mech robots, and other things, that, too me take far more patience than I have. If a build is going to require me to do a repeative task, I’m likely to scape the idea and do something else. I find no joy in repeating the same task over and over.
How would you recommend someone new to NMS begin learning to build?
I pitch it as an older persons Minecraft.
What additional advice would you give to new Builders?
Check out BeeblebumGO on YouTube for every possible technique and glitch there is to use!
