What Time Can I Download Starfield? Everything You Need to Know
The launch of Starfield, Bethesda Game Studios’ highly anticipated space-faring RPG, has generated considerable excitement and a flurry of questions, particularly around download times. If you’re eager to dive into this massive universe, understanding when you can actually access the game is crucial. The simple answer? Preloads for Starfield are already available, and the ability to play the game depends on your purchase and access level. Let’s break down the specifics to ensure you’re ready for liftoff.
Starfield Download Availability: A Detailed Overview
Preload Timing: Get Ready Before Launch
The ability to preload Starfield has been available for some time, allowing players to download the vast game files before the official launch. This ensures that when the servers go live, you’re not stuck waiting for the download to finish before you can begin your adventure.
- Xbox and Microsoft Store: Preloads became available on August 17th. If you’re playing on an Xbox console or through the Microsoft Store on PC, you should already have the game preloaded if you initiated the download.
- Steam (PC): Preloads on Steam unlocked on August 30th. Ensure you have Steam updated and check your game library to begin downloading if you haven’t already.
If you pre-ordered the game or are an Xbox Game Pass subscriber, you can likely preload the game at any time since those dates. The massive file size of 125+ GB makes preloading essential to ensure a smooth launch day experience.
Early Access Start Time
For those who opted for the Constellation Edition, Premium Edition, or Premium Edition Upgrade (on Xbox Play Anywhere only), early access began on September 1st. The exact time you could start playing was midnight in your local timezone. That means the early access release was worldwide, ensuring players could jump in as soon as the clock struck midnight in their respective region.
Official Launch Time
Starfield’s official worldwide launch time is at 5 pm Pacific Time (PT) and 8 pm Eastern Time (ET) on September 5th. This applies to all versions of the game, regardless of whether you had early access or not. This carefully planned release time ensures a synchronized launch for all players globally.
Starfield FAQs: Your Questions Answered
To further clarify the launch and download process, here’s a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions:
1. Can I Still Preload Starfield?
Yes, as long as you have pre-ordered the game or are an active Xbox Game Pass subscriber, you can still preload Starfield on your platform of choice (Xbox, PC via Microsoft Store, or PC via Steam).
2. How do I Get Starfield Early Access?
To access Starfield up to five days early, you needed to purchase the Premium Edition, the Constellation Edition, or the Premium Edition Upgrade specifically for Xbox Play Anywhere.
3. Can I Play Starfield Early with Game Pass?
While Xbox Game Pass provides access to the standard edition of Starfield at launch, if you also purchase the Premium Upgrade, you can get the early access period. This means you’d need both a Game Pass subscription and the upgrade.
4. What Time Did Starfield Early Access Launch?
Starfield’s early access launched at midnight local time on September 1st, meaning you could play as soon as it turned September 1st in your specific time zone, provided you met the early access qualifications.
5. Is the New Zealand Trick Working for Starfield?
No, the New Zealand trick did not work for Starfield. The launch was a synchronized global release, and changing your region wouldn’t grant earlier access. This was true for both the early access and full launch.
6. Is Starfield Playable Offline?
Yes, Starfield can be played offline on all platforms, whether you have a physical or digital copy. This is excellent news for those with limited internet access.
7. Can I Play Starfield on Xbox One?
Starfield is officially available on Xbox Series X/S, not Xbox One. However, Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscribers can use Xbox Cloud Gaming to stream the game on their older Xbox One consoles.
8. What’s the Total Download Size of Starfield?
The download size for Starfield is 125+ GB. Make sure you have enough storage space on your console or PC before starting the download.
9. How Long Does it Take to Complete Starfield’s Main Story?
The main story of Starfield is estimated to take about 30-40 hours to complete. However, the game offers extensive side quests and exploration, which could take players 60+ hours to explore fully.
10. Why is My Starfield Installation Stalling or Not Downloading?
If your Starfield installation is stopping, it may be due to network issues, problems with your game client (Xbox app or Steam), or conflicts with an ongoing game update that the console is trying to process concurrently.
11. Can I Romance Characters in Starfield?
Yes, you can build relationships and potentially romance some companions, including Sarah Morgan, Barrett, Sam Coe, and Andreja. These relationships evolve based on your choices in the game.
12. Why Does Starfield Say “Not Available”?
If you see that Starfield is “not available,” it could be due to regional restrictions, or a delay in its release in your area. Double-check the Xbox Game Pass app or the official Xbox website for regional updates.
13. Is Starfield Cracked Already?
Unfortunately, a cracked version of Starfield was available online shortly before the official launch. This is illegal and carries various risks, like malware. It is recommended you purchase a legitimate copy.
14. How Many Planets Does Starfield Have?
Starfield has over 1,000 planets to explore. This vast universe ensures you’ll have plenty to see and do.
15. Why is Starfield the First New IP from Bethesda in 25 Years?
Starfield is Bethesda Game Studios’ first new intellectual property in over 25 years. The studio has been developing the idea for a space-themed RPG since as early as 1994, according to director Todd Howard.
Conclusion
Understanding the download schedule and launch times for Starfield is vital to getting the best possible experience. With the early access period having started at midnight local time on September 1st, and the official worldwide launch happening on September 5th at 5 PM PT/8 PM ET, be sure to pre-load the game if you haven’t already and get ready to explore the vast universe. Whether you’re using Xbox Game Pass, purchased the standard edition, or went for one of the special editions for early access, there is something for everyone. This meticulously planned launch is designed to ensure a great start for all players.