Starfield in Third Person: Exploring the Settled Systems from a New Perspective

Yes, absolutely! You can play Starfield entirely in third person. Bethesda has retained the feature that allows you to switch between first-person and third-person perspectives, granting you the freedom to experience the vastness of space and the intricacies of its planets from your preferred vantage point. This is a significant boon for players who enjoy seeing their customized character navigate the world.

The Allure of Third Person in Starfield

Bethesda games have always offered this perspective switch, and its inclusion in Starfield is not merely an afterthought. The game is designed to be fully playable and enjoyable in either mode. While some may argue that first-person enhances immersion, the third-person view provides a broader view of your surroundings and allows you to appreciate your character’s appearance, especially after investing time in customization. For many, the third-person view is a more comfortable and visually appealing way to explore the massive worlds of Starfield.

Navigating the Options

Switching between first-person and third-person is simple:

• PC: Press the ‘V’ key by default. Some reports indicate Mouse 3 also works.
• Xbox: Press the View button (the one with two overlapping squares). This key can be remapped if desired.

Once in third person, you usually have two options: a closer view and a more zoomed-out view. Experiment to see which works best for you.

Addressing the Shoulder Switching Question

While Starfield offers a third-person perspective, it’s important to note a limitation that has been a recurring issue in Bethesda games: the lack of shoulder switching in combat. Unfortunately, players cannot manually switch which shoulder the camera is positioned over while aiming. This means that you will have to adjust your tactics based on the environment.

Is Third Person “Better” Than First?

Ultimately, the “best” perspective is subjective. Neither perspective will significantly impact gameplay or quests. The choice comes down to personal preference and the specific situation:

• First-person: Great for intense combat, detailed exploration, and interacting with the environment. Some find the first person view enhances the sense of immersion.
• Third-person: Excellent for admiring your character, getting a wider view of surroundings, and general exploration. Some players simply prefer to play in third-person as they dislike first-person gameplay.

Many players switch between both, using first-person for tighter spaces or firefights and third-person for open-world exploration.

Comparing Starfield to Skyrim: Perspective and Beyond

While both Starfield and Skyrim offer first-person and third-person options, they are fundamentally different games. Skyrim is a fantasy RPG in a medieval setting, while Starfield is a sci-fi RPG set in space.

Similarities

• Perspective Options: Both games offer easy switching between first-person and third-person.
• RPG Elements: Both emphasize character customization, skill development, and player choice.
• Exploration: Both offer vast, explorable worlds.

Differences

• Setting: Fantasy vs. sci-fi. This dictates nearly everything.
• Combat: Skyrim emphasizes melee combat, while Starfield is more gun-focused.
• Scale: Starfield is significantly larger, with 1,000 planets compared to Skyrim’s single continent.

Modding for Enhanced Perspectives

On PC, the modding community can further customize the third-person experience. Mods to improve camera angles, animations, and overall functionality are highly probable and can greatly enhance the experience. As always, exercise caution and download mods from reputable sources. PC players often find tweaking settings using mods allows them a much greater breadth of gameplay options.

Starfield FAQs: Perspective, Comparisons, and More

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further illuminate your understanding of Starfield and its perspective options:

1. How do I switch between first-person and third-person in Starfield?

On PC, use the ‘V’ key or try Mouse 3. On Xbox, press the View button.

2. Can I play Starfield entirely in third person?

Yes, you can play the entire game in third person.

3. Is there shoulder switching in third-person combat?

No, shoulder switching is not available in Starfield.

4. Is Starfield similar to Skyrim?

Yes, Starfield and Skyrim share similar design philosophies, RPG elements, and perspective options, but they differ significantly in setting, combat, and scale. Also, be sure to check out GamesLearningSociety.org for more on the analysis of video games.

5. Is Starfield first-person only?

No, Starfield offers both first-person and third-person perspectives.

6. Is Starfield bigger than Skyrim?

Yes, Starfield is much bigger than Skyrim, featuring 1,000 planets to explore.

7. Why do people play Skyrim in first person?

Many find that first person makes combat and interaction more engaging.

8. Can I change my POV in Skyrim?

Yes, on PC use the “[F]” key or mouse wheel and check the controls in the settings menu.

9. Why is my third person so zoomed in Skyrim?

Hold the right stick while going up or down on the left stick to zoom in or out.

10. Can I romance in Starfield?

Yes, Starfield allows you to romance certain companions.

11. How do you go 3rd person in Starfield Xbox?

Press the View button on your Xbox controller.

12. Is it better to play Starfield in first or third person?

The perspective is purely a matter of personal preference; it does not impact gameplay.

13. What is the best background for Starfield?

The best backgrounds depend on your preferred playstyle, but Diplomat, Space Scoundrel, Bounty Hunter, and Industrialist are often popular choices.

14. Can you go to other planets in Starfield?

Yes, you can travel to numerous planets in Starfield.

15. Will Starfield really have 1,000 planets?

Yes, Starfield features approximately 1,000 planets, though only about 10% contain life.