The Megatech update has officially landed for Astroneer, bringing a significant shift to how players handle logistics and base scaling. Launched alongside a native PlayStation 5 port, this update introduces a mix of free structural overhauls and paid DLC that leans heavily into the "mega" aspect of the game's sandbox.
Scaling Up With Free Megastructures
The core of this update for the general player base is the introduction of Megastructures. System Era Softworks has added the Intermodal Terminal and the Distribution Launch System (DLS) as free content. These aren't just cosmetic blocks; they fundamentally change how you move resources around your base. If you've been struggling with spaghetti-style automation lines, these tools are designed to clean up your logistics network.
Alongside the heavy machinery, the update finally adds Walkways. This is a massive quality-of-life win for builders tired of jumping over cables or terraforming perfectly flat ramps just to get around a base. We also get seven new plantable species, expanding the organic farming options for players who prefer botany to engineering.
The Megatech DLC Pack
For those looking to spend a bit of extra cash, the paid Megatech DLC introduces the Orbital Platform, Biodome, and Museum. The Orbital Platform is particularly interesting for players who have exhausted the surface-level building space and want to take their operations vertical. While these items are paid content, they integrate directly with the new engine upgrades that facilitate larger, more complex save files.
Native PS5 Support Finally Arrives
Console performance has often been the bottleneck for late-game Astroneer saves, where object counts tank the frame rate. The official PS5 port launches today, offering 4K resolution and a steady 60 FPS. If you own the PS4 version, the upgrade is free (note: this upgrade path is currently excluded in Japan). This performance bump is crucial for handling the increased asset density that the new Megastructures encourage.
Nintendo Switch players will need to wait a bit longer, with the update estimated to arrive in early 2026.
What bugs should players watch out for?
As with any major engine upgrade, there are some teething issues. The developers have flagged a few known bugs immediately upon release:
- Connectivity: There are reports of issues connecting power and oxygen lines to the new Megastructures.
- Museum Seeds: The Museum structure may have trouble registering specific seed collections.
- Missing Rewards: The "Pardon Our Dust" Hat reward is currently missing for eligible players.
These issues are expected to be addressed in upcoming hotfixes, but early adopters should be prepared for some minor instability while testing out the new terminal systems.