Bethesda’s Starfield (2023) blasts off as a sprawling space RPG echoing Prey’s immersive sim depths, Outer Worlds’ witty quests, and Everspace’s ship dogfights. Lots of fast traveling zips across 1,000+ planets, but the great story shines amid kinda bland missions and dialogue that could be much better. Starborn? Pure Daft Punk vibes with those sleek helmets. NG+ is done very well, multiverse twists begging replays—might chase that platinum trophy and dive deeper when more DLC drops.
Gameplay: Procedural Stars & Fast-Travel Freedom
Ship builder/customizer + scanning/exploration loop captivates—land anywhere, build outposts, fight spacers/pirates in Everspace-style zero-G. Fast travel (grav jumps, staterooms) streamlines the scale, though seamless flight mods beckon. Combat: Ground laser slugfests, boarding raids. New Game+ variants (constellations shift) refresh runs brilliantly. Shattered Space DLC added House Va’ruun lore (mixed reception, ~15h story), more inbound 2026?. Starfield MMO would be brilliant—procedural galaxies for MMORPG raids, unfortunately doesn’t seem to be in store.
Story: Epic Narrative, Bland Fetchers
Story grips—Constellation’s artifact hunt unveils multiverse secrets, Starborn antagonists helm Daft Punk cool. But missions feel bland (radiant repeats), dialogue wooden vs. Outer Worlds’ punch. Choices matter in factions (UC, Crimson Fleet), but delivery lacks snap.
Pros:
- Prey/Outer Worlds kin: Immersive RPG space.
- NG+ excellence: Replay godsend.
Cons:
- Bland missions/dialogue: Filler drags.
- Fast travel reliance: Seamless dreams deferred.
Verdict: Stars call. NG+ loops & DLC horizons—cosmic essential.