Is the ‘Starborn’ DLC the Big Starfield Update We’ve Been Waiting For?

For quite a while now, we haven’t received any fresh news regarding Bethesda Game Studios’ 2023 space exploration RPG, Starfield. However, the developer has recently shared some updates with us, suggesting that significant events might occur for Xbox and PC gamers later in the year.

In response to a fan’s request for updates on upcoming content, Bethesda shared their plans through various social media platforms, keeping the community informed.

The developer expressed, “We understand your excitement for an update regarding Starfield, and we value your enthusiasm. Our team has been diligently working, and although we can’t disclose specifics just now, there are numerous thrilling elements in store for the game this year that we’re eager to discuss once the moment is perfect.

Your input is valued and considered deeply by us at all times. Thank you for joining us on this adventure.

Significantly, there hasn’t been any update for Starfield since last November, which included some bug fixes, enhancements in performance, an adjustment to allow mods from verified creators to be achievement-compatible, and the addition of a complimentary new rover vehicle.

From the tone of this message, it seems like whatever is due in 2025 could be quite significant. There’s a possibility that we might experience its second expansion as early as this year – Todd Howard hinted at more DLC in an interview. Additionally, we can expect other updates with smaller amounts of content to follow.

Information regarding Starfield’s upcoming DLC has yet to be officially confirmed, although there are whispers suggesting it might be called “Starborn.” This nickname comes from ZeniMax Media registering the term last July. Without giving away any details of Starfield’s main storyline, let me tell you that in the game’s universe, this word signifies a significant group of characters. If the rumors are true and the DLC is indeed named Starborn, it would likely center around this faction.

Starfield’s initial expansion, titled Shattered Space, garnered mixed opinions from critics and content creators, many of whom felt it was average but lacked originality. The DLC has been met with even harsher criticism within the community, with Steam user reviews still predominantly negative. Critics often cite an excess of dull fetch quests, a brief main storyline, and a lack of novel enemies or equipment as the primary issues with Shattered Space.

It appears that Shattered Space didn’t manage to rekindle enthusiasm for Starfield, a title that received mixed reactions from both critics and gamers, with Fallout 4 (from 2015) coming close in terms of player numbers. Most find the game’s ideas and action mechanics captivating, but many express concerns about its expansive 1,000-planet universe being overly vast and criticize it for lacking roleplaying depth.

As an analyst, I find myself reflecting on the recent journey of Bethesda’s RPG enthusiasts, which hasn’t been as smooth sailing as we might have hoped. The subdued launch of Shattered Space in September, followed by a lull in Starfield updates, and a noticeable quietness from the studio has left many fans yearning for more. However, the anticipation remains high, as I eagerly look forward to what Bethesda is preparing for 2025. A captivating DLC akin to Dawnguard or Dragonborn from Skyrim or the engrossing Far Harbor expansion from Fallout 4 could rekindle players’ passion for Starfield. Regular, substantial patches at a consistent pace would also be warmly received.

Starfield can only be played on Xbox Series X|S and Windows PCs, either via Steam or the Xbox PC app since it’s an exclusive first-party Xbox game. You can play Starfield, but not Shattered Space, through Xbox Game Pass. If you prefer not to use Game Pass, you can buy Starfield for $69.99. Currently, the Steam version of Starfield is on sale at CDKeys for $42.59, while the Xbox Play Anywhere version is available at Microsoft for just $41.99. The Premium Edition that comes with the first DLC is also discounted; it’s priced at $65.79 at CDKeys (Steam) and $64.99 at Microsoft (for both Xbox and PC). Shattered Space is also on sale for $25.79 on CDKeys if you prefer to play that instead.

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2025-03-06 22:49