Summary
WithStarfieldfailing to set the world on fire the way itsFalloutandThe Elder Scrollsseries have, Bethesda has plenty of work to do if it hopes to redeem its ambitious sci-fi RPG. While post-launch patches have already resolved some of the biggest problems with the game, the upcoming Shattered SpaceDLC forStarfieldpresents an opportunity to reinvent and rehabilitate the title in a big way. To make the most of this opportunity, Bethesda should try to emulate how CD Projekt Red’sCyberpunk 2077: Phantom Libertynot only added some incredible extra content but also altered the base game in some unexpected ways.
Just as CD Projekt Red managed to reformCyberpunk 2077’s image in the years since its remarkably rocky start, Bethesda could still makeStarfieldinto something spectacular. By ensuring that the events of theShattered Space DLChave real and lasting effects onStarfield’s universe in the same way thatPhantom Liberty’s storydid forCyberpunk 2077, Bethesda could regain some of the goodwill it lost with the game’s underwhelming launch. And, thanks to its unique New Game+ mode, introducing significant changes toStarfieldcould prove to be far easier from a storytelling standpoint than it would be with similar titles.
Starfield’s Shattered Space DLC Should Follow Phantom Liberty’s Lead
One of the most widely praised elements ofCyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty, aside from the winning performance by Idris Alba asFIA agent Solomon Reed, was how it changed the base game in some surprising ways. Rather than simply adding a handful of one-off missions for players to enjoy, CD Projekt Red took the time to integratePhantom Liberty’s narrative into the main campaign. Bethesda should take a page from this playbook forStarfield, incorporating Shattered Spaceinto the game’s story in a significant way.
WhilePhantom Libertywasn’t afraid to shake up the normal gameplay loop, even brieflyturningCyberpunk 2077into a survival horror gamein one instance, it was the expansion’s multiple endings that really helped it stand out. They not only neatly wrapped up the DLC’s storyline, but players’ choices inPhantom Libertycould have an impact on the game’s overall narrative. Implementing a similar systemwould let Bethesda shake upStarfield’s story in some interesting ways, and its innovative New Game+ mode provides the perfect way to do this.
Story spoilers forStarfieldahead.
Shattered Space Needs to Shake Up Starfield’s Status Quo
Although there are often multiple ways to approach each mission,Starfield’s endingis surprisingly static, with the main quest line always concluding with players traveling through Unity and becoming Starborn in a new universe. Shattered Space could throw a wrench into this repetitive gameplay loop, though. One way to do this would be by introducing a new Artifact toStarfield’s universe, one with the power to drastically shift the balance of power in the game.
With tensions between the different factions inStarfieldrepresenting a core element of the game’s story, adding a multiversal McGuffin for them to fight over would make perfect sense. Depending on which faction players side with the game’s ending, andStarfield’s universe as a whole, could change significantly. From a galaxy where Unity-poweredpirates of the Crimson Fleetspread through space unchecked to one where humanity is subjugated by malevolent Starborn, who players choose to help could shake up the status quo in some significant ways.
By ensuring that Shattered Space not only adds some exciting new missions but also alters the base game’s story as much asCyberpunk 2077: Phantom Libertydid, Bethesda could giveStarfielda second chance to shine. Introducing a new Artifact and real, long-lasting consequences to players’ interactions with the in-game factions would be a great way to do this. Done right, this sort of radical revamp ofStarfield’s storycould give the game the shot of adrenaline it so desperately needs.
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.
