Starfield

Starfield is a highly anticipated action role-playing game (RPG) developed by Bethesda Game Studios and published by Bethesda Softworks.

The game was officially announced during Bethesda's E3 press conference in 2018 and has generated significant excitement among gamers. Set in a space-themed environment, Starfield marks Bethesda's first new intellectual property in over twenty-five years.

With a scheduled release date of September 6, 2023, Starfield will be available for Windows and Xbox Series X/S platforms.

The Setting

Starfield takes place in an expansive area known as The Settled Systems, which extends approximately 50 light-years from the Solar System. The game's narrative unfolds around the year 2310, following a conflict called the Colony War between two major factions: the United Colonies and the Freestar Collective.

The story is set 20 years after the war, with the factions now existing in an uneasy peace. Players assume the role of a customizable character who is a member of Constellation, an organization of space explorers. The game offers both first-person and third-person perspectives, allowing players to fully immerse themselves in the vast universe of Starfield.

Development

Starfield represents a significant milestone for Bethesda Game Studios, as it introduces a new intellectual property after a long hiatus. Todd Howard, the director of the game, has described Starfield as "Skyrim in space," indicating its ambitious scope and immersive gameplay.

The studio had been exploring space-themed games since 1994 when they obtained the rights to create a game based on the Traveller role-playing system. Over the years, Bethesda had several other space-related concepts, including a cancelled space combat game called The 10th Planet. It was from the atmosphere of this project that Starfield drew its inspiration.

The team at Bethesda spent a considerable amount of time refining the ideas behind Starfield, ensuring that the game would stand out among other science fiction titles. They embraced a theme known as NASA punk, which combines futuristic elements with technology rooted in actual NASA missions.

The development process involved crafting a fictional narrative spanning 300 years to the present in the game, exploring the implications of humanity's colonization of the stars.

Starfield release date and platforms

Starfield has been the subject of much anticipation since its initial teaser trailer was unveiled at Bethesda's E3 2018 press conference. Another in-game teaser trailer was presented at the E3 2021 conference during the Microsoft-Bethesda joint event.

During this presentation, the game was announced as a console exclusive for Microsoft Windows and Xbox Series X/S, with a release date of November 11, 2022. However, in May 2022, Bethesda announced a delay, pushing the release to the first half of 2023.

Todd Howard explained that the extra development time and support from Microsoft's engineers would contribute to making Starfield an even better game.

On March 8th, 2023, Bethesda revealed the official release date for Starfield: September 6, 2023. To further build excitement, Bethesda Game Studios showcased 45 minutes of gameplay during Starfield Direct on June 11, 2023.

Additionally, they announced a Starfield-themed Xbox controller and headset, along with a special edition of the game called the Starfield Constellation Edition. Players who purchase this edition will enjoy five days of early access before the official launch, on September 01, 2023.

Starfield Editions

The Constellation Edition offers even more than what the creators have highlighted in the chart. In addition to your early access, here's a comprehensive list of what awaits you when your Constellation Edition arrives.

• Starfield Steelbook Display Case: Protect your game in style with a stunning steelbook case.

• Credit Stick with Game Code: Your key to Starfield's universe.

• Shattered Space Story Expansion: Exclusive access when it's released.

• Up to 5 Days Early Access: Get a head start on exploring the cosmos.

• Constellation Skin Pack: Customize your in-game look.

• Digital Artbook and Soundtrack Access: Dive into the art and music of Starfield.

• Embroidered Constellation Patch: Flaunt your passion for Starfield.

• Starfield Chronomark Watch & Transit Case: An elegant timepiece with English support, complemented by a companion app in multiple languages (English, French, Italian, German, and Spanish). Note: Limited phone connectivity, no calls, cellular service, or touch screen.

The Settled Systems: A Starfield Animated Anthology

Starfield envisions a universe where humanity has expanded across the cosmos. In this captivating animated anthology, you can explore three prominent cities within the Settled Systems.

Join a delivery pilot in New Atlantis on their quest for a taste of the elite lifestyle. Follow a stranded orphan in Akila City as they search for a path to freedom. And witness the struggles of two street rats as they fight for survival in the gritty underbelly of Neon.

Supra ET Ultra

In New Atlantis, Kent is a courier pilot who wants to live in the best part of the settled systems. He joins the UC Vanguard and becomes part of the city's elite. But soon, Kent realizes he actually craves exciting adventures beyond the city.

Where Hope is Built

Meet Vanna, a young orphan in Akila City, famous for its role in the Colony War. Vanna's deepest desire is to venture into the stars, but a broken ship is an obstacle she must overcome. Her quest for the necessary repair parts takes her on a journey through the city, exposing her to unforeseen dangers, all in pursuit of her dream.

The Hand That Feeds

Two neon street kids, Ada and Harper, make a living by stealing from rich who come to the “Pleasure City” to have some fun. But when Ada faces a tough decision, the all-seeing Ryujin Industries notices her. They offer her an exciting chance, but there may be a price to pay.