Starfield is gearing up to enter a new phase! After its debut on PC and Xbox Series on September 6, 2023, the game from Bethesda Game Studios has a major update planned for April 7, 2026. This includes a highly anticipated launch on PS5 and a host of fresh content across all platforms.
On the new features front, Free Lanes is the centerpiece of this update. This free content drop introduces a new cruising mode that allows players to travel between planets within the same star system. The goal is straightforward: make space journeys feel more seamless and give players more time aboard their ships with their crew. During these voyages, encounters and activities can now occur, enriching the gameplay with more dynamic in-space moments.
Bethesda has introduced new points of interest, fresh dungeons, and more variety among explorable locations, along with an all-new ground vehicle—the Moon Jumper. If you enjoy wandering, long journeys, and unexpected stops, this update could transform the way you approach interplanetary travel.
Additional updates are rolling out to enhance the game further. A new resource called X-Tech allows players to upgrade their weapons, ship modules, and some of their gear. Enemies are also becoming more diverse, with new modifiers that can boost their shields, speed up their attacks, or inflict elemental damage. Community-suggested improvements like shared storage between colonies are now available at outposts. Plus, a brand-new companion animal, the Milliewhale, makes its debut.
On the crew front, Muria and a mini-robot join the ranks of potential recruits. Players venturing into New Game+ will also be able to carry over a limited number of items when transitioning to the Unit, adding a new layer to the long-term progression strategy. Are you someone who loves perfecting their build, spaceship, and base? This update is specifically designed to cater to that kind of meticulous gameplay.
Speaking of major updates, Terran Armada is launching on the same day. This scripted DLC introduces a new series of missions set across the occupied Systems. Players can expect fresh characters, new locations, hostile enemies, and a wealth of additional quests and rewards. The story pits you against robotic assaults from the Terran Armada, with the future of humanity hanging in the balance in space. If you're looking for richer storytelling and a stronger narrative arc, this expansion could bring a fresh pace to your gameplay sessions. Plus, those with the Premium Edition on Xbox and Steam will get this DLC at no extra cost.
The release of Starfield on PS5 signals a significant shift in the gaming landscape. On Sony’s console, the game will make full use of the DualSense’s features, including support for the light bar, adaptive triggers, and the touchpad. For PS5 Pro owners, two performance modes are planned: a Pro Performance mode focused on a higher frame rate, and a Pro Visual mode prioritizing stunning visuals. The standard edition will be available for $49.99 across all platforms. For PlayStation fans who have been eagerly awaiting this sci-fi epic for years, the countdown is on for April 7, 2026.
Finally, the Trackers Alliance experience continues to grow. Five new bounty hunting adventures are now available. Players who purchased the original content will get free access, while newcomers can unlock the entire package for 700 Credits of Creations. With this latest wave of content, Starfield is shifting its focus toward more dynamic exploration, greater flexibility in progression, and broader accessibility to new audiences. If you’ve ever dreamed of commanding a spaceship, managing your crew, and forging your path across multiple worlds, April might just be the perfect time to set sail.
In terms of gameplay, Bethesda has gone to great lengths, allowing you to visit thousands of planets, with each solar system forming part of a larger system. When it comes to customizing your avatar, the software seems to be taking functionality to the extreme, with an astronomical number of faces and builds, allowing you to do - pretty much - whatever you want! Choice of skills, character traits... Choose your attributes carefully too, as they could save the day in certain situations.
Ships, companions, space flight, space combat... There's a whole host of other features to be discovered in the trailer, but we'll let you find out for yourself above, to keep a few surprises in store for you!
What's the story? It all begins on the planet Kreet, where your ship lands. You play as a space miner who has joined Constellation, humanity's last group of explorers. In terms of game mechanics, those accustomed to Bethesda 's softs shouldn't be out of their element, as they follow the same codes as the studio's other softs, such as Fallout 4 and Fallout 76. It's also just what you'd expect, graphically speaking, using the same engine as the studio's previous games.
As with Bethesda's other titles, the game can be played in both first and third person. There's also a well-stocked skill tree, as well as a whole host of materials that can be collected, via a laser, to craft equipment. According to the developers, the map will include 100 systems to visit, for a total of 1,000 planets.
An ambition that could pose a problem... And with good reason: like No Man Sky, which uses the same codes, the planets could be procedurally generated. What does this mean? That they could all look the same, both in terms of their ecosystem and the resources and missions to be discovered... Which could quickly bore players. All that remains is to wait for the game's release on PC and Xbox on September 6, 2023, to contradict the bad tongues!
Our Review:
This is a divisive game: Starfield has disappointed many Bethesda fans, yet others have found it a perfect outlet for their creativity and childhood dreams. So, what should we make of this highly anticipated title?
Starfield isn’t groundbreaking, but it certainly isn’t the failure some critics claim. The game offers a unique atmosphere, resonating with its core theme: in the vastness of space, humanity feels small as it embarks on a new chapter in its history... This opens up some philosophical questions one might not expect. But this depth adds richness to a storyline that could easily be at home in a Hollywood blockbuster.
Bethesda’s craftsmanship is also impressive, captivating space and astronomy enthusiasts from the very first moments. Exploring exotic, distant planets, building your own spaceship, drifting through the cosmos... It’s a visual delight and an incredibly immersive experience. The immersion is so convincing that, for a fleeting moment, you might believe you’re a real astronaut.
That said, it’s true that Starfield won’t appeal to everyone. The biggest downside is its length. Very long. Progressing through the main story and seeing the plot unfold gradually requires patience. And patience is also needed during the initial learning curve: the game isn’t always easy to pick up and master. Nevertheless, this extensive lifespan has its benefits: while the game isn’t cheap—costing around 80 euros—it offers a lengthy dive into this extraordinary universe.
Exploration, resource gathering, customization, careers... This game is a gold mine for those who prefer to skip the main quest and wander around the map, indulging in all the side activities available.
The most frustrating aspect, for us, remains the interface and menus, which aren’t particularly intuitive. Also, if you’re playing on PC, make sure your computer is powerful enough to handle the game. Lag and graphic glitches can easily pull you out of the experience.
If you’re planning to jump into Starfield, forget about other Bethesda titles for now, and simply enjoy this game for what it is—a beautiful dream demanding some commitment and perseverance.
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This test was conducted as part of a professional invitation. If your experience differs from ours, please let us know.
