Can You Romance Two People in Starfield? A Deep Dive into Starfield’s Romantic Entanglements
The short answer is no, you cannot have multiple marriages or simultaneous committed romances in Starfield. While the game allows you to flirt with multiple characters early on, Bethesda designed the system to ensure you ultimately choose one primary romantic partner. Once you commit to a character through marriage, other potential romantic avenues close off. Polyamory isn’t a supported relationship structure in Starfield. Be prepared to choose!
Starfield Romance: A Singular Focus
Starfield, like many modern RPGs, integrates romance as a significant element of character development and story immersion. While it’s tempting to explore all your options initially, the game mechanics push you towards a monogamous relationship. This means careful consideration is key when choosing which companion to pursue a deeper connection with. Flirting is fair game, but serious commitment has to be exclusive.
The Romanceable Characters
There are four primary romanceable characters within the game, all members of the Constellation faction:
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Sarah Morgan: An idealistic leader with a thirst for exploration.
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Barrett: A quirky and humorous scientist with a passion for discovery.
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Sam Coe: A charming and honorable space cowboy with strong family values.
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Andreja: A mysterious and independent character with a troubled past.
These characters are romanceable regardless of your character’s background, gender, or traits. This inclusive design allows for diverse player experiences and romantic preferences.
Consequences of Playing the Field
While it’s possible to explore your feelings for multiple companions initially by using [FLIRT] dialogue options, playing the field can come with risks. If your actions lead a companion to believe you are serious about them, continuing to flirt with others may hurt their feelings. It is possible that doing so will eventually lead to a rupture in that relationship.
Commitment and Marriage
Once you’ve reached a certain affinity level with a romanceable character, usually after completing their companion quest, they will present you with a romance option. Accepting this puts you on the path to a committed relationship and eventually, marriage.
Marriage ceremonies are unique to each character and often involve quests that delve into their personal history and values. For example, marrying Sam Coe requires you to visit his family in Akila City. It is possible to end a marriage after committing to it, but it comes with in-game story consequences as you discuss ending things with your partner.
Benefits of Marriage
Marriage in Starfield provides subtle gameplay benefits. Sleeping in a bed with your spouse nearby grants a slightly higher XP buff from the “Well Rested” condition (+15% XP, compared to the standard +10%). More importantly, though, marriage is a narrative element that adds depth to your character’s story. The bond with your spouse can influence dialogue options and even impact certain quest outcomes.
FAQs: Romance in Starfield
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the nuances of romance in Starfield:
1. How do I initiate a romance with a companion?
To initiate a romance, you must recruit the companion, travel with them extensively, and consistently make dialogue choices that align with their values. Selecting [FLIRT] options when available is also crucial. As your affinity grows, they will eventually offer a personal quest. Completing this quest opens the door to romance.
2. Can I romance NPCs outside of Constellation?
No, you cannot romance any NPCs outside of the four designated Constellation members (Sarah, Barrett, Sam, and Andreja). Romance is limited to these specific characters.
3. Does my character’s background or traits affect romance options?
No. Starfield’s romance options are inclusive. Your character’s background, traits, and allegiance do not restrict your ability to romance any of the four available characters.
4. What happens if I try to romance multiple characters at once?
While flirting is possible, attempting to pursue serious relationships with multiple characters will eventually lead to consequences. You may be forced to choose between them, potentially damaging your relationship with those you reject.
5. Can I divorce my spouse in Starfield?
Yes, you can get divorced in Starfield. To do so, you must initiate a conversation with your spouse and express your desire to end the marriage. This will have in-game story consequences.
6. Is there a same-sex romance option?
Yes. All four romanceable characters are available regardless of your character’s gender. You can pursue same-sex or opposite-sex relationships without restriction.
7. What is the benefit of sleeping with my spouse?
Sleeping in a bed near your spouse grants a slightly higher XP buff (+15% XP) from the “Well Rested” condition, compared to the usual +10%.
8. How do I know if a companion likes me?
Pay attention to their dialogue and reactions. If a companion frequently expresses agreement with your choices and seems eager to spend time with you, it’s a good sign that your affinity is increasing.
9. What is affinity, and how does it affect romance?
Affinity represents a companion’s level of approval towards you. As your affinity increases, they become more open to sharing their personal stories and eventually developing romantic feelings.
10. What happens after marriage in Starfield?
After marriage, your spouse will continue to accompany you on your adventures. They will provide dialogue options related to your relationship and offer the aforementioned XP buff when sleeping nearby.
11. How do I unlock Sarah Morgan as a companion?
You unlock Sarah Morgan as a companion early in the main quest line. She will accompany you after completing the “The Old Neighborhood” main quest.
12. What is Andreja’s personal quest, and how do I trigger it?
Andreja’s personal quest, like those of the other companions, is unlocked by traveling with her, making choices that align with her values (truthfulness and protecting the innocent), and reaching a high enough affinity. The quest will then trigger organically.
13. Can I have children in Starfield?
As of the current version of Starfield, you cannot have children in the game.
14. Can I romance Vasco?
No, you cannot romance Vasco, as he is a robot. Romance is limited to the four human members of Constellation.
15. Where can I learn more about game design and the impacts of games?
Consider visiting the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/ for extensive resources and insightful articles about game design, game-based learning, and the societal impact of games. GamesLearningSociety.org offers a wealth of information for those interested in understanding the broader context of games like Starfield.