As of writing, we are just two weeks away from Bethesda’s next RPG epic. Xbox desperately needs a win, and based on everything we know about Starfield ahead of its release, it could be that victory. 2023 has been a massive year for gaming, especially for RPGs. Bethesda is one of the best around with its Fallout and Elder Scrolls titles. This new IP will expand the company’s sights by going beyond an open world to an open universe. Let’s break down what we know to be ready to get into a spaceship to explore what the universe holds for us.
Everything We Know About Starfield Before Its Release
Starfield combines a No Man’s Sky approach to the typical Bethesda RPG. By having an engine upgrade with Creation Engine 2, we will see what Bethesda can do with its formula for the current-gen Xbox and hardware for PCs. This expansion will deliver a prettier game and a bigger one with 1,000 planets to explore. These will go from resource-heavy landscapes to human-occupied worlds with large cities. While only a fraction will have life, we will still have about 100 to interact with creatures and humans however we want.
When you think of Fallout or Elder Scrolls, certain mechanics will come to mind. To keep in line with what we think of a Bethesda RPG, specific features will remain in this new IP. Pickpocketing, lockpicking, NPC persuasion, factions, outpost building, and recruitable companions scratch the surface of what we will be able to do.
New Customization Options
In-depth character customization in any RPG is always a plus. From everything we know about Starfield, we will have a new system to make our protagonist upon its September release. You can expect a large variety of presets to choose from as a template. Similarly to what Baldur’s Gate 3 did, we will use that foundation to build up to make the person we want to be in this galactic adventure.
While we get the typical sliders and selections for hair, facial features, and more, backgrounds will be a new mechanic to making our character. This will help guide you in roleplaying. For example, if you plan on being a space pirate, you will have a background to fit that mold. Whatever you select, you will have special interactions with NPCs based on what you select. You might be a public figure, and fans may excitedly approach you. If you go down a criminal path, people may fear or feel threatened by your presence. These will have traits attached beyond NPC interactions, like giving 10% of your money to your parents due to your close relationship with them.
As you will travel the universe, ship customization will be available. This will not be early-game content, as getting the ship you want will be costly. When you do, you can create something that fits your playstyle, from heavy guns to be prepared for combat to storage-focused for selling contraband. From the Starfield presentation that delivered much of everything we know, ships were shown, with inspirations of mechs and platypuses being some of the sillier ideas showcased.
Types of Companions
Companions have been around in Bethesda games for quite some time, but it has always been a thin layer on how you interact with people aiding you on your quests. Bethesda upgraded this system in two ways: companions and crewmates. Companions have a story of their own while following you along for whatever mischief you want to get into. They will also be available to romance if you feel frisky. Crewmates are generic NPCs to work for you. Your employees can work on your ship or be at an outpost to keep the wheels moving for whatever purpose you designed.
Starfield Release, Platforms, and Cost
The biggest thing to know out of everything we looked over is that Starfield is exclusive to PC and Xbox Series X|S, with a day-one release on Game Pass. If you don’t have the subscription service, you will pay at least $70. If you plan on getting something extra with the game, you can pay more for the Premium Edition. There is also an upgrade to get those additions for Game Pass subscribers to not be left out.
Starfield will release on September 6. Owners of the Digital Premium Edition will get the game five days early.
