Breakdown
- Bethesda’s latest Starfield update adds huge new features to the game
- The update is available now on Steam Beta but launches on Xbox soon
- The update adds new graphics options, gameplay modes, features and more
A colossal Starfield update from Bethesda is adding loads of features that fans have been begging for. Including performance mode toggles, detailed city maps and ship decoration options, the controversial sci-fi RPG is one step closer to where it should be.
While Bethesda didn’t reveal anything new about Starfield console mods, the upcoming Shattered Space DLC or follow up on the game’s “new ways to travel” promise, the newly announced update is huge for the game.
In the patch notes for the next Starfield update, 1.11.33, Bethesda has added performance options for players on Xbox Series X. For those with VRR 120Hz displays, Starfield will not target 40FPS by default at peak visuals, but there are also options for 30fps, 60fps and an uncapped framerate if you want.
You’ll also be able to select a prioritization for your game. For example, you can completely unlock the game’s performance and prioritize framerate which will “lower internal resolution and detail for special effects, lighting, and crowds” to compensate. Or you can still prioritize visuals and just have a much worse time.
Additionally, new gameplay options will let you customize the difficulty of Starfield in multiple ways. You can make ground combat harder or easier, tweak the threat of space battles and more.
Bethesda has also added detailed city maps to major locations such as New Atlantis and Akila City. These new maps will highlight points of interest, a feature bizarrely missing from launch. While these locations were never too confusing to navigate, the lack of proper maps really killed the early game experience.
A massive improvement to Starfield also comes in the form of a new Ship Decoration system. Just like outposts, you’ll now be able to decorate the insides of your ship with tat to make it more homely. While you could do this before by placing items around the ship, they had a tendency to move around while you were popping barrel rolls around Raiders in the cosmos.
Other minor additions include a host of additional bug fixes, options to change the classic dialogue camera, the ability to alter your traits after you enter The Unity, and additional graphical improvements.
Starfield is still not the game that fans expected. There’s still a lot of loading screens and the space travel leaves a lot to be desired, but the sci-fi RPG is steadily improving.