Exploring the Wastes: Visiting Earth in Starfield
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Yes, you absolutely can visit Earth in Starfield! While the game throws you into a vast expanse of new star systems and alien landscapes, the developers at Bethesda haven’t forgotten our pale blue dot. However, don’t expect a bustling metropolis; Earth has seen better days.
What to Expect When You Land
Earth in Starfield is a far cry from the vibrant, life-sustaining planet we know. The story reveals a cataclysmic event linked to the grav drive technology that rendered the planet largely uninhabitable. What you’ll find is essentially a barren desert, a haunting reminder of humanity’s past and the consequences of unchecked technological advancement.
Despite its desolate state, Earth isn’t devoid of interest. Bethesda has included 10 landmarks scattered across the planet’s surface for you to discover. These locations offer glimpses into the planet’s history and provide a sense of scale to the disaster that befell it. They are scattered over a very wide area though so be aware that they may be far apart and difficult to discover if you are simply wandering without any guidance.
How to Get to Earth: A Journey to Sol
The journey to Earth starts fairly early in the game. After delivering the first Artifact to Constellation, you’re essentially given the freedom to explore the galaxy, and that includes our solar system.
- Open Your Starmap: Access the starmap from your pause menu. Make sure your view is set to show the different star systems.
- Locate the Sol System: The Sol system is located on the far left of the starmap. It’s not too far from Alpha Centauri, where New Atlantis is located.
- Plan Your Jump: Select the Sol system to open it. Earth will be the third planet from the sun.
Fuel Considerations
Remember to ensure your ship has sufficient fuel to make the jump to the Sol system. The amount of fuel needed will depend on your current location and the distance to Sol. Upgrade your ship’s fuel capacity or choose a more direct route if necessary.
Fast Travel is Key
While it is technically possible to manually fly to planets, Starfield relies heavily on fast travel. Don’t expect to seamlessly fly from one planet to another. Instead, you’ll initiate a jump, which will trigger a loading screen as you transition to the next location.
Exploring the Sol System
Earth isn’t the only planet in our solar system available for exploration. You can also visit other familiar celestial bodies, including Mars and the Moon (Luna). The Moon, in particular, features the Apollo Landing Site, a must-see for any space enthusiast. There is a side quest specifically tied to visiting the Apollo landing site that can be picked up in-game.
The Narrative Significance of Earth
Visiting Earth is more than just ticking off a box on your galactic bucket list. It’s a crucial part of Starfield’s narrative. The state of Earth serves as a cautionary tale, exploring themes of technological hubris, environmental destruction, and the resilience of humanity in the face of catastrophe. By witnessing Earth’s desolation firsthand, players gain a deeper understanding of the motivations and history of the game’s factions and characters. This exploration of narrative elements within a gaming environment is often studied and discussed within the Games Learning Society. You can find more about the intersection of gaming and learning at GamesLearningSociety.org.
FAQs: Everything You Need to Know About Visiting Earth in Starfield
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify aspects of visiting Earth in Starfield:
1. Is Earth the only destroyed planet in Starfield?
While Earth is the most prominent example, the game touches upon other planets that have suffered ecological damage or societal collapse. However, Earth’s destruction is particularly significant due to its historical and emotional weight for humanity.
2. Can you build outposts on Earth?
Yes, you can build outposts on Earth, just like on many other planets in Starfield. However, given Earth’s barren nature, resources might be scarce, so planning and resource management are essential.
3. Are there any habitable areas left on Earth?
While Earth is largely uninhabitable, the game hints at the possibility of localized pockets of habitability. However, these are not major settlements or thriving ecosystems. These are generally found inside locations as opposed to outside locations.
4. What happened to the animals on Earth?
The game doesn’t explicitly detail the fate of all animal species. However, it’s safe to assume that most suffered the same fate as the environment, leading to widespread extinction.
5. Can you find any pre-disaster artifacts on Earth?
Yes, the landmarks on Earth often contain artifacts and remnants from before the disaster. These items offer clues about the planet’s history and the lives of those who once lived there.
6. Is there a main questline related to Earth?
While Earth isn’t necessarily the central focus of the main quest, visiting the planet is integrated into the storyline. The quests that take you to Earth will give you more details about the destruction of Earth and will allow you to visit some of the important landmarks of pre-destruction Earth.
7. What resources can you find on Earth?
Given its barren state, Earth might not be the most resource-rich planet. However, you can still find valuable minerals and resources essential for crafting and outpost construction.
8. How does Earth’s gravity compare to other planets?
Earth’s gravity is similar to what we’re accustomed to, making it a comfortable place to explore in terms of movement and combat.
9. Can you find any other iconic locations within the Sol System?
Yes, besides the Apollo Landing Site on the moon, you can visit other iconic locations within the Sol System, such as locations on Mars.
10. What is the best ship to use for visiting Earth?
Any ship with sufficient fuel and a grav drive can reach the Sol system. However, a ship with good scanning capabilities will be helpful for locating landmarks and resources on Earth.
11. Does visiting Earth affect your character’s story or relationships?
Visiting Earth can have emotional implications for your character, especially if they have ties to the planet’s history or are interested in humanity’s past. It can also influence your interactions with certain companions who have strong opinions about Earth’s fate.
12. Is Earth a dangerous place to visit?
While Earth isn’t teeming with hostile creatures, the environment itself can be dangerous. Extreme temperatures, radiation, and dust storms can pose a threat to unprepared explorers.
13. Can you find any settlements on Earth?
No. There are no known settlements on Earth. The landmarks are scattered across the surface of Earth.
14. What exactly caused the destruction of Earth?
According to the in-game lore, the invention and widespread use of the grav drive is the direct cause of Earth’s destruction, as it destabilized the planet’s magnetic field.
15. Does visiting Earth unlock any unique achievements or rewards?
Yes, visiting specific landmarks on Earth and completing related quests can unlock unique achievements and rewards, adding to the incentive to explore the planet thoroughly.