In The Alters, survival depends on exploration, research, and resource management. One of the most valuable—and elusive—resources is
Planetary Samples, a special currency required for advanced research projects. If you're struggling to collect them, this guide will walk you through the process step by step.
What Are Planetary Samples?
Planetary Samples are rare materials found on the planet’s surface, tied to mysterious anomalies. Unlike regular resources, they can’t be mined directly—instead, you’ll need specialized equipment and a bit of detective work to obtain them.
Step 1: Unlock the Scientist Alter
Before you can collect Planetary Samples, you must
recruit the Scientist Alter, Jan. He provides access to the
Research Module, which is essential for progressing in the game.
- How to Get Jan: Follow the main questline until you unlock the ability to create new Alters. Choose the Scientist specialization to bring Jan into your team.
Once Jan joins your crew, he’ll mention strange anomalies on the planet—leading you to the next step.
Step 2: Locate and Study Anomalies
Jan will task you with investigating unusual energy signatures. These anomalies appear as
incandescent green glows called
“Interals”.
- How to Find Interals: Explore new areas, especially at dawn or dusk, when anomalies are more visible.
- Observation Phase: Before collecting samples, you must first study these anomalies to understand their behavior.
Step 3: Craft the Luminator
To harvest Planetary Samples, you’ll need the Luminator, a device invented by Jan.
- Research Requirement: Check the Research Module under Jan’s projects to unlock the Luminator blueprint.
- Crafting Materials: Gather the necessary resources (varies depending on your game progress).
Once crafted, the Luminator becomes a permanent tool in your inventory.
Step 4: Harvest Planetary Samples
With the Luminator equipped, follow these steps:
Locate an Interal – Use your scanner to find the glowing green anomaly.Scan It – Hold the left trigger to analyze it.Destroy It – Use the right trigger to eliminate the anomaly with the Luminator.Follow the Ghostly Flora – After destruction, a spectral plant trail will appear. Follow it to a large glowing organic mass.Destroy the Mass – Use the Luminator again to reveal the Planetary Sample.Pro Tips for Efficient Farming
- Carry Extra Batteries – The Luminator drains suit energy, so stock up on power cells.
- Explore New Regions – Freshly uncovered areas often contain more samples.
- Time Your Hunts – More anomalies appear as the sun moves closer to the planet.
Why Are Planetary Samples Important?
These rare materials unlock high-tier research projects, including:
- Advanced base upgrades
- New Alter specializations
- Critical survival technologies
Without them, your progress will stall, so prioritize collecting them early.
Final Thoughts
Planetary Samples are a game-changing resource in The Alters, but obtaining them requires strategy. By unlocking the Scientist Alter, crafting the Luminator, and mastering anomaly hunting, you’ll secure asteady supply.
Platform(s): PlayStation 5 PS5, Windows PC, Xbox Series X/S
Developer(s): 11 Bit Studios
Publisher(s): 11 Bit Studios
Release date: 13 June 2025
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