How to Activate Starfield Early Access: Your Comprehensive Guide
Gearing up to explore the vast cosmos of Starfield? The anticipation is palpable, and for many, the chance to dive in early is an irresistible prospect. The key to unlocking Starfield early access lies in specific game editions. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of how you can activate early access and start your spacefaring adventure ahead of the official release date. To gain early access to Starfield, you need to purchase either the Premium Edition (or the Premium Upgrade) or the Constellation Edition of the game. These editions grant players up to five days early access, allowing you to start exploring the game’s vast universe before the standard release date. It’s critical to note that the standard edition does not grant early access.
Starfield Editions That Offer Early Access
The path to early access is through premium versions of Starfield. Here’s a closer look at the specific editions that provide this coveted head start:
The Premium Edition
The Starfield Premium Edition is a digital-only version that comes with several perks, including the early access bonus. In addition to early entry, this edition includes:
- Shattered Space Story Expansion: Access to a new story expansion when it is released.
- Constellation Skin Pack: Unique in-game skins for your equipment and tools.
- Starfield Digital Artbook: A digital collection of the game’s concept art and visuals.
- Original Soundtrack: The complete musical score of the game.
The Constellation Edition
The Constellation Edition is the most premium offering for Starfield, and it includes all the benefits of the Premium Edition, plus additional physical collectibles. This edition also grants early access and features, among other things:
- A physical, collectible case.
- A Chronometer watch
- A steelbook case
- A Constellation patch
- All the digital goodies of the Premium Edition.
The Premium Upgrade
If you already have Starfield through Xbox Game Pass, you can still get early access by purchasing the Premium Upgrade. This upgrade essentially adds the content of the Premium Edition to your Game Pass version. You must already own the standard edition, as purchasing the upgrade alone will not unlock the game. This is a great, cost-effective option for Game Pass subscribers who are eager to play early without having to purchase the game outright.
Activating Your Early Access: Step-by-Step
Once you’ve purchased one of the eligible editions or the Premium Upgrade, here’s how you activate your early access:
- Verify Your Purchase: Check that you have the correct edition (Premium Edition, Constellation Edition, or the Premium Upgrade) on the platform you’ll be playing on (Xbox or PC).
- Preload: If available, preload the game to ensure you are ready to go the moment early access unlocks.
- Download the Upgrade (If applicable): If you are using the Premium Upgrade with Xbox Game Pass, go to your Xbox account’s purchase page, find the Upgrade, and ensure it has been downloaded.
- Check the Release Time: Early access started on Friday, September 1, 2023, but the specific time of access varied by region. In the United States, the times were:
- East US: Thursday, August 31st at 8 pm (EDT)
- Central US: Thursday, August 31st at 7 pm (CDT)
- West US: Thursday, August 31st at 5 pm (PDT)
- Launch the Game: At the designated time, launch Starfield. If everything is set up correctly, you should have access to the game.
Troubleshooting Early Access Issues
If you purchased an eligible edition and are still having issues accessing Starfield early, consider the following:
- Check Your Download: Make sure the game and/or upgrade is fully downloaded and installed.
- Restart Your Device: Sometimes a simple restart of your console or PC can resolve issues.
- Verify Your Account: Ensure you are logged into the correct account on your gaming platform.
- Contact Support: If the issue persists, reach out to Xbox or Bethesda support for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions About Starfield Early Access
Here are some common questions people have about accessing Starfield early:
1. When Exactly Did Starfield Early Access Begin?
Starfield early access began on Friday, September 1st, 2023, with precise times varying by region within the United States, as detailed above.
2. How Can I Get Early Access to Starfield?
To gain early access, you must purchase the Starfield Premium Edition, the Constellation Edition, or the Premium Upgrade if you are a Game Pass subscriber.
3. Why Can’t I Access Starfield Early Access?
If you’re experiencing issues, ensure you’ve downloaded the Premium Upgrade if using Game Pass. Also verify that you have the correct edition, and try restarting your device.
4. Can I get Early Access With Xbox Game Pass?
You cannot get early access with the standard Xbox Game Pass subscription alone. You need to purchase the Premium Upgrade to activate early access via your Game Pass subscription.
5. Can I Play Starfield Early on My Phone?
To play Starfield on mobile, you need to be an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscriber, and then access it through the Xbox Game Pass App. However, early access is still only available if you have the Premium Upgrade.
6. What is Included in the Premium Edition of Starfield?
The Premium Edition includes the early access bonus, the Shattered Space Story Expansion, the Constellation Skin Pack, a Digital Artbook, and the Original Soundtrack.
7. How much does the Premium Edition Cost?
The Starfield Premium Edition costs $100.
8. Is Starfield’s Map Bigger Than Skyrim’s?
Yes, Starfield is significantly larger than Skyrim. Starfield features over 1,000 planets with explorable areas, whereas Skyrim’s map is approximately 15 square miles.
9. Can Starfield Be Played Offline?
Yes, Starfield can be played offline on all platforms, including Xbox Series X/S and PC, with both physical and digital copies.
10. What is the Size of Starfield on PC and Xbox?
Starfield requires about 126.1GB on Xbox Series X|S and 139.84GB on Windows PC.
11. What is the Best Ship in Starfield?
For early gameplay, the Razorleaf is considered a strong all-around ship. Other powerful options include the Aegis and the Abyss Trekker.
12. How long is the main story of Starfield?
The main story of Starfield is about 30 to 40 hours long, but completion time can vary based on how much side content is explored.
13. Can I travel to Earth in Starfield?
Yes, you can visit Earth in the SOL star system after delivering the first artifact to Constellation in the beginning stages of the game.
14. How many planets will I be able to explore in Starfield?
Starfield features over 1000 planets across 100 star systems, combining handcrafted and procedurally generated worlds.
15. Can I play Starfield for free?
You can play Starfield through Xbox Game Pass if you are subscribed to the service, but the early access requires the Premium Upgrade.