Can You Upgrade to Starfield Premium Edition? A Comprehensive Guide
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Yes, you absolutely can upgrade to the Starfield Premium Edition, even if you initially purchased the standard version or are playing through Xbox Game Pass. However, the process varies depending on your platform and purchase method. This article delves into the intricacies of upgrading to the Premium Edition, what it offers, and how to navigate the various options available to you.
Understanding the Premium Edition Upgrade
The key thing to understand is that the Premium Edition Upgrade is not a full game purchase. Instead, it acts as an add-on that transforms your standard copy of Starfield into the Premium Edition. This upgrade offers a variety of benefits, making it a worthwhile consideration for players looking to enhance their Starfield experience.
What Does the Premium Edition Upgrade Include?
The Premium Edition Upgrade comes packed with enticing extras. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:
- Early Access: This is one of the biggest draws. Purchasing the upgrade allows you to start playing up to 5 days before the official release date.
- Shattered Space Story Expansion: This is the first major DLC for Starfield and included in this bundle. This offers a significant addition to the game’s main storyline and is a highly anticipated piece of content.
- Constellation Skin Pack: This includes cosmetic enhancements for your character, like a unique Equinox Laser Rifle, spacesuit, helmet, and boost pack.
- Digital Artbook and Soundtrack: Immerse yourself even more into the world of Starfield with these digital extras.
Essentially, the Premium Edition Upgrade gives you all the same in-game content add-ons that come with purchasing the full Digital Premium Edition of the game.
Who is the Upgrade For?
The upgrade is particularly advantageous for:
- Game Pass Subscribers: If you’re playing Starfield through Xbox Game Pass (on PC or console), the Premium Upgrade allows you to unlock the early access and all the DLC content.
- Standard Edition Owners: If you purchased the standard edition of the game physically, the upgrade will grant access to all the digital extras.
- Players Seeking Early Access: For those who are eager to start their spacefaring adventure early, the premium upgrade offers the quickest path to the game.
How to Upgrade to Starfield Premium Edition
The method for upgrading varies depending on your platform and purchase point:
Xbox Game Pass Users
If you’re playing Starfield via Xbox Game Pass, you cannot directly purchase the full Premium Edition. However, you can purchase the Premium Upgrade.
- Purchase the Premium Upgrade: Find the Starfield Premium Upgrade DLC on the Xbox or Microsoft Store. You will need to purchase it separately.
- Install the Upgrade: Once purchased, you may need to manually start the installation. On Xbox, go to Starfield, then to “Game Card,” then “Manage,” and select both the Premium Upgrade and any related packs like the Mars Skin Pack, ensuring they are set to “will install,” and hit save changes.
- Force Update on PC: If the upgrade shows as ‘too early’ on the Xbox app for PC, go to Microsoft Store app, go to the Starfield page, and press the “Play” button. This will force the update that wasn’t triggered on the Xbox app.
- Enjoy Early Access: Once installed, you should be able to access the game early, provided the early access window is already open.
Physical Standard Edition Owners
If you bought a physical standard edition of the game, you’ll be able to purchase the premium edition upgrade through either the Microsoft Store on PC, the Xbox Store for Xbox consoles or Steam. After this, just proceed like any DLC purchase.
Steam Users
If you purchased the Starfield Premium Edition on Steam, all of the additional content is packaged together. You do not need a separate upgrade purchase. To access it:
- Open Steam.
- Go to your Library and select Starfield.
- Right-click on Starfield and select “Install.”
- Steam will automatically download all premium content along with the game.
Starfield Premium vs. Premium Upgrade: Key Differences
It is critical to distinguish between the full Digital Premium Edition and the Premium Edition Upgrade:
- Digital Premium Edition: This is the full game purchase at a higher price. It includes the base game, early access, DLC expansion, and digital goodies.
- Premium Edition Upgrade: This is a lower-cost add-on that converts your standard game to a premium version. It includes the same perks as the Premium Edition except for the base game itself. It’s intended for existing owners of the base game (either standard edition purchase or Game Pass subscribers).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Starfield Premium Upgrade worth it?
Yes, if you are a fan of Starfield and want to maximize your playing experience. It gives you early access, all in-game content add-ons, and a significant DLC expansion. If you are using the Xbox Game Pass version, this is the only way to get the early access.
2. How much does the Premium Upgrade cost?
The Premium Upgrade typically costs around $35, though Game Pass members may find it at a slightly reduced price (e.g., $31.49).
3. Can I purchase the Premium Upgrade if I only have Game Pass?
Absolutely. The upgrade is specifically designed for Game Pass members who want to access the premium content.
4. Is early access included with the Premium Upgrade?
Yes, the primary purpose of the upgrade is to grant you early access up to 5 days before the official launch.
5. What is the Shattered Space Story Expansion?
This is the first major story DLC for Starfield. It adds to the game’s narrative and offers new quests, characters, and content. It’s included in both the full premium edition and premium upgrade.
6. What does the Constellation Skin Pack contain?
The Constellation Skin Pack includes the Equinox Laser Rifle, a unique spacesuit, helmet, and boost pack skins. These are cosmetic additions for your character.
7. Can I refund my Premium Upgrade?
Refund policies vary by platform. Steam generally has a 14-day/two-hour refund policy, while Microsoft has its own set of guidelines. Contact your provider directly to see if a refund is possible.
8. Is the Premium Edition digital only?
The Premium Edition is available in digital formats. The physical editions may contain a code for the digital edition.
9. How do I install the Premium Edition content on Steam?
The Steam version includes all content bundled together, so you only need to install the base game and the included content will be downloaded simultaneously.
10. How many hours does it take to complete Starfield’s story?
The main story of Starfield takes approximately 30 to 40 hours to complete. However, with exploration and side content, the playtime can easily exceed 60 hours.
11. Does Starfield really have 1000 planets?
Yes, Starfield features approximately 1,000 planets, although not all will be heavily populated with content.
12. Can I use my previous Starfield save game with the premium edition upgrade?
Yes, upgrading does not affect your save files. You can continue from your existing saves once you’ve upgraded.
13. What does New Game Plus offer in Starfield?
New Game Plus lets you carry over your unlocked skills, skill levels, and traits from your previous playthrough.
14. Will the Premium Upgrade still be available after the initial early access period?
Yes, the Premium Upgrade is expected to be available for purchase even after the initial early access period ends. It will continue to provide access to the included DLC content and digital items.
15. Is there a physical premium edition for Starfield?
Yes, there are physical versions of the premium edition but it mainly focuses on the inclusion of physical merchandise (steelbook, constellation patch, etc) along with a code to redeem the digital edition with the premium contents. For physical standard edition owners looking to upgrade, buying the premium upgrade digitally is the intended approach.
In conclusion, upgrading to the Starfield Premium Edition is a great option for players looking to get the most out of their experience. Whether you’re a Game Pass subscriber or own the standard edition, the benefits of early access, story expansion, and exclusive cosmetics makes it a worthwhile upgrade for most players.