Exploring the Cosmos: What Galaxy is Starfield In?
The question of where Bethesda’s epic space RPG, Starfield, is set is central to understanding its vast scope. The short answer? Starfield is set within a relatively small region of our own Milky Way galaxy. While it might evoke images of venturing into other galaxies, the game’s setting is firmly rooted within our cosmic neighborhood. This localized approach allows for a detailed and compelling exploration of a specific area, albeit one that contains over 1,000 explorable planets. This decision to focus on a confined region of the Milky Way contrasts with other space exploration games that aim for intergalactic travel. Let’s dive into what that means for the player experience and how the game’s universe works.
A Closer Look at Starfield’s Galactic Setting
While Starfield doesn’t let you jump between galaxies, it presents a detailed and intriguing slice of the Milky Way. The game’s universe is not an astronomically accurate representation of the entirety of our galaxy. Instead, it concentrates on a region containing both fictional and non-fictional planetary systems. Players will explore familiar astronomical concepts and objects rendered with impressive detail. We’re not talking about the entirety of the Milky Way, but rather, a section that has been expanded with fictional elements, allowing for unique narratives and encounters.
The setting includes recognizable systems like Alpha Centauri, where the major city of New Atlantis is located on the planet Jemison. In fact, the game’s representation of this corner of our galaxy is designed with realistic textures and geological features, inspired by observations made by spacecraft such as Cassini and Juno. This emphasis on realism, coupled with creative license, offers a rich and immersive setting for players to lose themselves in. The focus allows for dense world-building and a deep sense of place within the relatively limited space of the region.
Why the Focus on a Limited Area of the Milky Way?
Bethesda’s choice to set Starfield within a single portion of the Milky Way was deliberate. It allows the developers to pack this particular area with detailed planets, cities, space stations, and compelling narratives. By limiting the scope, they were able to create a more intricate and engaging experience for players.
This approach differs markedly from games like No Man’s Sky, which boasts an almost limitless, procedurally generated universe spanning multiple galaxies. While the scale of No Man’s Sky is undoubtedly impressive, Starfield prioritizes depth and hand-crafted content over sheer volume. Each planet you land on in Starfield, while some use procedural generation, has unique elements and stories that players can discover.
The Balance of Detail and Scale
Bethesda aimed to ensure that the large number of planets (over 1,000) had enough content to justify their inclusion without feeling repetitive. They chose not to “jam-pack” every single one with major quests, but instead spread out the points of interest while providing ample opportunities for exploration and discovery. This careful balancing act gives the sense of a vast, explorable world without compromising the quality of each individual location.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Starfield’s Setting
Here are 15 frequently asked questions designed to further clarify Starfield’s setting and gameplay:
What systems are included in Starfield?
Starfield includes both real and fictional star systems. The Alpha Centauri system is prominently featured, housing the city of New Atlantis, while other systems like Alpha Andraste, located in the galactic Northwest, and numerous unnamed and player-discoverable systems also populate the game’s map.
How many planets can I explore in Starfield?
Players can land on more than 1,000 planets and countless moons and space stations within the game’s defined area of the Milky Way. Not all of these planets are habitable, but most offer something unique to discover.
Can I travel to other galaxies in Starfield?
No, players cannot travel to other galaxies in Starfield. The game is limited to a specific region within the Milky Way galaxy, which has been significantly expanded for gameplay purposes.
Is Earth present in Starfield?
Yes, Earth is present in Starfield, but it is uninhabitable due to a past cataclysm. Humans have abandoned it, choosing to settle in more hospitable environments like New Atlantis.
Is there an Earth-like planet in Starfield?
While no planet is identical to Earth, there are many habitable planets that offer different biomes and ecosystems. Jemison, where New Atlantis is located, is a prime example of a planet capable of sustaining human life.
What are the major cities in Starfield?
The four major cities in Starfield are: New Atlantis, Akila, Neon, and The Key, the latter of which is a space station headquarters. Each city offers unique storylines and gameplay experiences.
How does Starfield compare to No Man’s Sky in terms of galaxy size?
The universe of No Man’s Sky is vastly larger, boasting around 18 quintillion planets. While Starfield has over 1,000 planets, its focus is on detailed, crafted locations within its slice of the Milky Way, not raw scale.
What year is Starfield set in?
Starfield is set in the year 2330. This places it far enough into the future to allow for the advanced technologies that propel space exploration in the game.
Why did humanity leave Earth in the Starfield universe?
Earth became uninhabitable in 2203 after its magnetosphere collapsed, causing its atmosphere to dissipate. This occurred due to the invention of the Grav Drive.
How is Starfield’s map designed?
Starfield’s map consists of over 100 star systems. These worlds are a blend of handcrafted and procedurally generated environments. Terrains are based on random number generators as players approach a planet.
Can I build my own settlements in Starfield?
Yes, players can build outposts on planets and even create large-scale cities, complete with decorations.
Is there a way to replay the main story in Starfield?
Yes, Starfield offers a New Game+ mode that allows you to replay the story with new permutations, dialogue options, and missions.
Can I romance characters in Starfield?
Yes, there are multiple companion characters with whom the player can form relationships. These include Sarah Morgan, Barrett, Sam Coe, and Andreja.
How long can Starfield potentially be played?
Bethesda Game Studios hopes Starfield will have a lifespan of at least 10 years, similar to their hit title Skyrim.
Does Starfield feel more like Skyrim or Fallout in gameplay?
While Starfield shares elements with both Skyrim and Fallout, its world design makes it feel less like a traditional open-world adventure and more like a connected series of hubs, somewhat like a theme park. Fast travel is common, and players jump between locations on the same planet in the same way they might between locations on different planets.
Conclusion
Starfield’s setting within a defined region of the Milky Way galaxy, though not intergalactic in scale, offers a deeply immersive and detailed experience. Its focus on compelling stories, crafted locations, and a vast array of explorable planets within a limited space provides players with a unique sense of space exploration and discovery. The blend of real scientific concepts with fictional elements allows for a rich and engaging universe that is sure to captivate players for years to come. While it may not be an interstellar odyssey, Starfield’s particular slice of the Milky Way is a captivating and expansive one.