Summary
Starfieldis a sci-fi game that has players exploring the cosmos while unraveling the secrets of the strange artifacts that are being found. Players have great freedom when it comes to where they explore, which factions they join, and what choices they make. There is also a robust character-creator system that lets players create the character of their dreams.
One of the most interesting aspects of the character creator is the inclusion of traits that influence the events ofStarfield. The traits are well-implemented enough to encourage players to experiment with different traits on different playthroughs. The nextStarfieldgame will have to do something special if it wishes to surpass the traits of its predecessor.
How the Next Starfield Game Could Innovate on the Traits
Part of why thetraits ofStarfieldwork is that they are not just superficial. Instead, they affect the game and the plot, making the stakes higher for players when picking traits. FutureStarfieldtitles should build on this, introducing traits that are not just unique but also deeply affect the gameplay and plot.
One of the ways Bethesda could innovate on the traits is by makingdifferentStarfieldtraits synergize. For example, the “Kid Stuff” and the “Extrovert” traits would work well to form a close-knit family that offers players greater rewards than if they had chosen a different combination. Several other traits would work well together, but it would be up to players to experiment and figure out the best ones.
Bethesda could also add new, interesting traits to spruce things up. The possibilities are endless, and the studio could take inspiration from other pieces of sci-fi media. Lastly, the studio could expand on existing traits that weren’t used to their full potential. This is the case with the Serpent’s Embrace trait which has very loose ties toHouse Va’Ruunand doesn’t help players know more about the mysterious faction.
The Clever Traits of Starfield
One of the more interesting traits ofStarfieldis the “Hero Worshipper” trait which has the player followed around by a fan who shares the likeness and mannerisms of theAdoring Fan inThe Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion.It’s a clever, nostalgic Easter egg for long-time Bethesda fans while adding an interesting feature for new players. There’s also the “Kid Stuff” trait that gives players parents that they can visit. It’s a nice human touch to a tale that often involves cosmic mysteries.
The variety of traits ensures thatStarfieldhas replayability, as the traits make a difference in how the game plays out. For instance, players may go for the “Serpent’s Embrace” which gives health and oxygen boosts, or even choose to be an introvert or extrovert. This sets a high bar for future games in the franchise which will have to somehow find a way to top the traits of the original game.
Traits Can be Changed in Starfield
The best part is that players aren’t stuck with the traits they pick at the start of the game. SomeStarfieldtraits can be changedby visiting the right places. For example, one can change from an introvert to an extrovert if they wish, which is useful if players decide they prefer traveling with companions over exploring solo.
Starfieldis an excellent addition to Bethesda’s roster of games, and it has the potential to survive for as long as franchises likeThe Elder Scrollsif the studio is careful with future releases. Focusing on the traits is one way to ensure theStarfieldfranchise doesn’t stagnate, and there are many ways to switch things up to keep things interesting for newcomers and series veterans.
Starfield
WHERE TO PLAY
Starfield is the first new universe in 25 years from Bethesda Game Studios, the award-winning creators of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and Fallout 4. In this next generation role-playing game set amongst the stars, create any character you want and explore with unparalleled freedom as you embark on an epic journey to answer humanity’s greatest mystery.The year is 2330. Humanity has ventured beyond our solar system, settling new planets, and living as a spacefaring people. From humble beginnings as a space miner, you will join Constellation – the last group of space explorers seeking rare artifacts throughout the galaxy – and navigate the vast expanse of the Settled Systems in Bethesda Game Studios’ biggest and most ambitious game.
