I see there's a new 4.12.1 Fractal update, but how do I install it? My games are installed from the standalone installers, I do not use the GoG client. Also, how do I backup my game save data to protect it in case the update craps the bed

TYIA

GOG doesn't really get updates as quickly as Steam does, but the best way to check for updates is here: https://www.gogdb.org/product/1446213994#builds

TY. I see the "4.12_Fractal_100867" update in your post, but the question is "HOW" do I download and install the update? I dont see an update download link in my account nor do I see any function from inside the game to update it. I dont see a download section on the Hello Games website. HOW do I actually update the game and where do I go to "GET" the update?

From the game's page in GOG Galaxy, select the "fader button" widget to the right of the Play button. From the drop down menu, choose "Check for updates."

However, you should be prompted automatically if an update is available. If you're sure that you're a version behind and not seeing that prompt then try doing a "Manage installation --> Verify / Repair" from that same drop down.

Not using GoG's client "GoG Galaxy". Im installed using the stand alone installers THANK YOU! That is where they are!

Now that I know where the update patches are, does anyone know how to backup the game save in case something gets corrupted during he update or the save wont load afterward?

They are stored at C:\Users\your_login_name\AppData\Roaming\HelloGames\NMS\DefaultUser.

Just copy the entire directory to your favorite off-line storage medium. If Bad Things happen them simply overwrite the files on disk with the backup.

You should be able to restore a particular save one-to-one by only copying the two files save#.hg and mf_save#.hg from backup. The save numbers between the backup and the game directory must match, since there is additional metadata in the files accountdata.hg and mf_accountdata.hg which keeps track of active saves, game mode, etc.

It is (or used to be) possible to restore a save to a different save slot. Say you have a long ago backup that uses save2.hg as well as a current save2.hg that you don't want to lose. The technique in the link below probably still works but I haven't tried it recently. YMMV and make backups.

https://www.gog.com/forum/no_mans_sky/restoring_an_older_save

The save editor is at https://github.com/goatfungus/NMSSaveEditor

Safe travels, Interloper!

And if you're not using Galaxy, you can keep your current install, DL the full new version, and install to a separate directory. Just backup the Save directory mentioned above so you can revert if you need.

Keep the GoG Client installed, it's not that big, go into settings and disable auto-updates for all games.
Run the games without it, but when you need to update, or downgrade, it's the best tool for that.