Why You Won’t Find Starfield on PlayStation 5: An Exclusive Deal Explained
The simple answer to the burning question of why Starfield isn’t on PlayStation 5 is this: Microsoft owns Bethesda Softworks, the developer of Starfield, and has made it an Xbox and PC exclusive. This decision, driven by strategic business interests, means PlayStation gamers are currently missing out on Bethesda’s ambitious spacefaring RPG. It’s a tale of acquisitions, console wars, and the evolving landscape of the gaming industry.
The Microsoft Acquisition: A Game Changer
The root of Starfield’s exclusivity lies in Microsoft’s acquisition of ZeniMax Media, the parent company of Bethesda Softworks, in 2021. This multi-billion dollar deal brought a treasure trove of popular game franchises, including The Elder Scrolls, Fallout, Doom, and Starfield, under the Xbox umbrella. While some initially speculated that Microsoft might release certain titles on PlayStation consoles on a “case-by-case” basis, it soon became clear that major, new IPs like Starfield would be exclusive to the Xbox ecosystem.
The business rationale behind this strategy is clear. By securing exclusive access to highly anticipated games like Starfield, Microsoft aims to boost the value of its Xbox Game Pass subscription service, attract more gamers to the Xbox platform, and ultimately strengthen its position in the console market. It’s a competitive move designed to differentiate Xbox from PlayStation and drive user engagement.
What This Means for PlayStation Gamers
Unfortunately, this decision leaves PlayStation 5 owners in a frustrating position. Starfield, a brand-new IP from a renowned studio, is unavailable on their console of choice. This exclusivity doesn’t just deprive PlayStation gamers of the opportunity to experience the game; it also fuels the ongoing “console war” and highlights the increasing trend of platform-exclusive content in the gaming industry.
While there are spaceship combat games in the PS Plus Game Catalog, such as Rogue Galaxy and Chorus, they aren’t the same as Starfield. Some argue that Starlink: Battle for Atlas is the most similar game to Starfield because of its galaxy-exploring gameplay. However, it’s not an apples-to-apples comparison.
The Future of Bethesda Games on PlayStation
The long-term implications of the Microsoft acquisition for other Bethesda titles on PlayStation are less clear. While Starfield is definitively exclusive, the future of established franchises like The Elder Scrolls and Fallout remains a topic of speculation. A document released as part of the FTC v. Microsoft case confirmed that The Elder Scrolls VI isn’t coming to PlayStation. However, whether older games or future spin-offs might eventually find their way to Sony’s console is still unknown. Microsoft could decide to release older titles to maximize profits and reach a broader audience, but there’s no guarantee.
There may be some games that would benefit greatly from the concepts and ideas involved in this situation. For example, educational game design could be adapted to explore game exclusivity. As such, Games Learning Society explores game design and learning and is a great resource for people interested in game design.
Exploring Alternatives: Games Like Starfield on PS5
While PlayStation gamers can’t experience Starfield directly, there are other games on the PS5 that offer similar space exploration and RPG elements. No Man’s Sky, for example, provides a vast, procedurally generated universe to explore, offering players a sense of freedom and discovery. Other options include Outer Wilds, a critically acclaimed space exploration game with a unique time-loop mechanic, and Mass Effect Legendary Edition, which offers a compelling narrative and engaging RPG gameplay in a science fiction setting.
These alternatives may not fully replicate the Starfield experience, but they provide a satisfying dose of space exploration and RPG gameplay for PlayStation fans.
Will Starfield Ever Come to PS5?
The likelihood of Starfield ever releasing on PS5 is extremely low. Given Microsoft’s strategic goals and the substantial investment it made in acquiring Bethesda, it’s highly improbable that the company would undermine its own Xbox ecosystem by releasing its exclusive title on a competing platform. While never say never, the current situation suggests that Starfield will remain an Xbox and PC exclusive for the foreseeable future.
FAQs: Your Starfield on PS5 Questions Answered
Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Starfield and its availability on PlayStation 5:
1. Is Starfield permanently an Xbox exclusive?
Yes, Starfield is currently intended to be a permanent Xbox and PC exclusive, based on Microsoft’s strategic decisions following the acquisition of Bethesda Softworks.
2. Could a change in management at Microsoft alter the situation?
While changes in leadership or corporate strategy could theoretically influence future decisions, it’s unlikely that Microsoft would reverse its stance on Starfield’s exclusivity in the near future.
3. What are the chances of a PlayStation-exclusive Starfield sequel?
Given the current landscape, the possibility of a PlayStation-exclusive Starfield sequel is extremely slim. Any future installments in the franchise are highly likely to remain within the Xbox ecosystem.
4. Is there any way to play Starfield on PS5 through cloud gaming?
Currently, there is no official way to play Starfield on PS5 through cloud gaming. Xbox Cloud Gaming is primarily available on PC, mobile devices, and Xbox consoles. While workarounds might exist, they are often unreliable and could violate terms of service.
5. Will Starfield ever be available on PS4?
No, Starfield will not be available on PS4. It is exclusive to Xbox Series X/S and PC.
6. What is the best alternative to Starfield on PS5?
No Man’s Sky is often considered the best alternative to Starfield on PS5, offering a vast, procedurally generated universe to explore.
7. Did Sony try to prevent Microsoft from acquiring Bethesda?
While specific details are not publicly available, it’s safe to assume that Sony was likely aware of Microsoft’s interest in acquiring Bethesda and may have explored its own options. However, Microsoft ultimately secured the deal.
8. How many copies of Starfield were sold?
Starfield was the best-selling game of September despite being available on Xbox Game Pass.
9. What is Starfield rated?
Starfield is rated M for Mature due to violence, blood, strong language, and drug use.
10. How long is the main story of Starfield?
Starfield’s main story is approximately 30 to 40 hours long.
11. How big is the explorable area in Starfield compared to Skyrim?
Starfield is significantly larger than Skyrim, featuring over 1,000 planets, each with potentially explorable areas. The map of Skyrim spans approximately 15 square miles, which is comparable to the expanse of just a single planet within Starfield.
12. How many planets are habitable in Starfield?
Out of the 1,000 planets in Starfield, only 100 are habitable.
13. Was Starfield originally intended to be on PlayStation?
It is difficult to know what the developers may have initially envisioned for Starfield’s platform availability prior to Microsoft’s acquisition of Bethesda. However, now, it is without a doubt one of the most highly anticipated Xbox exclusives in years.
14. Can I use a PS5 controller to play Starfield on PC?
Yes, you can use a PS5 DualSense controller to play Starfield on PC, as the game supports gamepad input.
15. How much does Starfield cost?
The Starfield Standard Edition costs $70. The Premium Edition, which includes extra content, costs $100.
Conclusion: The Exclusivity Era
Starfield’s absence on PS5 is a clear example of the increasing trend of platform exclusivity in the gaming industry. While this strategy benefits console manufacturers by driving sales and subscriptions, it can be frustrating for gamers who are limited by their platform of choice. Whether this trend will continue to dominate the gaming landscape remains to be seen, but for now, PlayStation gamers will have to explore the vastness of space through other exciting titles.