Starfield: Xbox Exclusive or PlayStation Bound? The Definitive Answer
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Is Starfield going to be on PS5 or Xbox? The short, definitive, and unwavering answer is: Starfield is an Xbox exclusive. It is currently available on Xbox Series X|S consoles and PC, and it’s also playable through Xbox Game Pass. Expect it to likely never release on Sony’s PlayStation 5.
This exclusivity stems from Microsoft’s acquisition of ZeniMax Media, the parent company of Bethesda Softworks, the studio behind Starfield. This strategic move effectively brought Bethesda’s IPs, including Starfield, under the Microsoft umbrella. While the gaming landscape is constantly evolving, the current agreement points towards Starfield remaining firmly within the Xbox ecosystem.
Unpacking the Exclusivity: Why Starfield Stayed Home
The reasons for this exclusivity are multifaceted, primarily driven by business strategy and competitive positioning. Here are a few contributing factors:
- Strengthening the Xbox Ecosystem: Microsoft aims to bolster the value proposition of its Xbox consoles and the Xbox Game Pass subscription service. Exclusive titles like Starfield serve as significant incentives for players to invest in the Xbox platform.
- Return on Investment: Developing AAA titles is incredibly expensive. Microsoft’s investment in acquiring ZeniMax Media needs to be justified, and exclusive releases are a key component of recouping those costs.
- Competitive Advantage: In the console wars, exclusives are powerful weapons. Securing high-profile titles like Starfield allows Microsoft to differentiate itself from Sony and attract gamers who might otherwise lean towards PlayStation.
- Focus on Xbox and PC Optimization: By focusing on a limited number of platforms, developers can optimize the game for those specific systems, potentially leading to a better overall experience.
The landscape can always shift, but at this time, it is safe to say that Starfield will not launch on PS5.
Starfield FAQs: Everything You Need to Know
To further clarify any lingering questions, let’s delve into some frequently asked questions about Starfield, its exclusivity, and related topics.
1. Will Starfield ever be on PS5?
No, it is highly unlikely. As mentioned previously, Bethesda Softworks is now owned by Microsoft, and Starfield is a key Xbox exclusive. While never say never, the current situation strongly suggests Starfield will remain an Xbox and PC title.
2. Is Starfield coming to PS4?
Definitely not. Even before the Microsoft acquisition, Starfield was designed as a next-gen title, taking advantage of the more powerful hardware in the Xbox Series X|S and modern PCs. A PS4 port is technologically implausible.
3. Will the new Elder Scrolls be on PS5?
The current indication is no. While Phil Spencer has stated Microsoft will consider each game release on a “case-by-case basis,” internal documents released during legal proceedings suggest The Elder Scrolls VI is intended as an Xbox and PC exclusive.
4. Is Elder Scrolls 6 an Xbox exclusive?
All signs point to yes. Although no firm statement has been made, it’s extremely likely it will follow the Starfield example and launch as an Xbox and PC exclusive.
5. What are some games like Starfield on PS5?
While a direct comparison is difficult due to Starfield’s unique blend of exploration, RPG elements, and scale, some PS5 games that offer similar aspects include:
- No Man’s Sky: Offers vast open-world exploration and procedural generation of planets.
- Outer Wilds: A time-looping mystery exploration game set in a solar system
- Starlink: Battle for Atlas: A space combat game with exploration elements.
- Rogue Galaxy: A sci-fi RPG with space travel and combat.
6. Is Starfield Next Gen only?
Technically, it’s current-gen only. It’s available on the current generation of Xbox consoles (Series X|S) and PC. There is no last-gen (Xbox One or PS4) version.
7. What FPS is Starfield on Xbox Series X|S?
On Xbox Series X, Starfield targets 30fps. Todd Howard has confirmed this target. The Xbox Series S also aims for 30fps, but may have dynamic resolution scaling.
8. How long will it take to beat Starfield?
Starfield’s main story is approximately 30-40 hours long. However, completionists and players who enjoy exploring side quests and engaging with the world can easily spend 60 hours or more in the game.
9. How much does Starfield cost?
The standard edition of Starfield typically retails for $70, which is now the standard price for new AAA games. There are also premium editions available with additional content.
10. How big is the Starfield map?
Starfield boasts over 1,000 planets spread across numerous star systems. The scale is massive, making it Bethesda’s largest game world to date.
11. Is Starfield 25 years in the making?
This is a marketing term. The idea for a sci-fi RPG had been with Bethesda for a long time, but the actual development of Starfield took a normal development cycle for a game of this scale.
12. Is Starfield first person only?
No, Starfield allows you to switch between first-person and third-person perspectives at any time.
13. How many worlds will Starfield have?
As mentioned earlier, Starfield contains over 1,000 planets, though only a fraction of them are habitable.
14. Will Starfield be multiplayer?
Currently, Starfield is a single-player experience. Bethesda has no plans to add multiplayer functionality. However, the modding community may eventually create a multiplayer mod.
15. How long will Elder Scrolls 6 take to release?
Based on current information, expect The Elder Scrolls VI to release in 2026 at the earliest, and potentially later, potentially even 2028. Game development is unpredictable, and significant delays are always possible.
Understanding the Broader Context
The console exclusivity debate is a complex one, with arguments on both sides. Some argue that exclusivity stifles innovation and limits player choice, while others contend that it fosters competition and allows developers to focus on specific platforms, resulting in optimized experiences.
The academic community has been observing the effects of modern game development and console exclusives for quite some time. A great source of insight is the Games Learning Society which facilitates research on game design and its educational potential. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more about their studies.
Ultimately, the decision to make Starfield an Xbox exclusive is a business decision driven by Microsoft’s strategic goals. Whether it’s beneficial for the gaming community as a whole is a matter of ongoing debate. However, as things currently stand, PS5 players will need to find their spacefaring adventures elsewhere.
Looking to the Future
The future of console exclusivity remains uncertain. As game development costs continue to rise and subscription services gain prominence, the landscape could shift dramatically. Perhaps in the future, we will see more cross-platform releases and a greater focus on cloud gaming, blurring the lines between consoles and platforms. For now, Starfield remains firmly rooted in the Xbox ecosystem.