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I’ve spent the last 20 minutes exploring an abandoned research tower in Starfield. It was one of many structures I’ve discovered in my jaunt across this planet, and so far it’s given me more resources and delights than I can physically carry. A legendary helmet here, a whole stack of medkits there, and even a small amount of one metal I need for some research. I’m so happy plundering away that I completely miss a heavily armed Spacer Captain lurking on the top floor, equally minding their own business looking out at the view. I move too quickly, alert them and suddenly I’m under fire, while a nearby Spacer colleague trips the alarm and suddenly my mini-map is pulsating with red dots indicating there are far more Spacers yet to come.
I’m about 27 hours into Starfield and nearing the story’s end. But I’m not quite ready for my first playthrough to be over.
I’ve started to get some answers to the world’s intriguing questions and now that I see the end in sight, I’m not sure I’m ready to roll credits (although, like any Bethesda Game Studios RPG, the game continues after credits with faction questlines, side missions, and more). I could have last night, but my wife and I decided to watch a movie instead: Mission Impossible 4: Ghost Protocol (one of the best in the series). I’ve seen it but she hadn’t, so I picked up my Backbone controller device for my iPhone 14 Pro Max and booted up Starfield to continue playing.
Bethesda’s massive new space opera isn’t perfect, but its accessible approach to open galaxy gaming should find a wide audience.
*Starfield’s Accessibility and VATS:*
One of the most anticipated aspects of Starfield was how Bethesda would handle its combat mechanics, especially given their history with the Vault-Tec Assisted Targeting System (VATS) in their Fallout series. However, to the surprise of many, VATS didn’t make its way into Starfield’s combat system.
While some fans may have initially mourned the absence of VATS, it’s clear that Bethesda made a thoughtful decision. The absence of VATS doesn’t diminish Starfield’s combat experience; instead, it allows the game to shine in a different way. VATS, while iconic, might have felt out of place in Starfield’s open galaxy setting. The game’s combat is fast-paced, requiring precision and quick decision-making, making VATS less fitting for this new universe.
*Starfield’s Exploration and Immersion:*
What sets Starfield apart is its commitment to immersion. The vast, open galaxy is teeming with mysteries, resources, and stories waiting to be discovered. Exploring the abandoned research towers or stumbling upon hidden treasures is a constant thrill. Bethesda has crafted a world that rewards players for their curiosity and willingness to venture into the unknown.
*Starfield’s Continuing Legacy:*
With a score of 8.5/10, Starfield showcases Bethesda’s dedication to creating expansive, immersive gaming experiences. Available on Xbox Series X and Windows PCs, it offers a glimpse into an entirely new universe that fans of the studio have been eagerly awaiting for over a quarter century. While not perfect, its accessible approach to open galaxy gaming is poised to captivate a wide audience.
In conclusion, Starfield’s decision to forego VATS in its combat system has not hampered its appeal. Bethesda’s latest space opera invites players to embark on a journey of exploration and immersion like never before. As we prepare to dive deeper into this uncharted universe, it’s evident that Starfield is poised to leave a lasting mark in the world of gaming, just as Bethesda has done for decades. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer to their games, Starfield has something special to offer. So, grab your spacesuit, ready your starship, and set out on an adventure through the cosmos in this remarkable new addition to the gaming world.
