Will I Be Able to Play Starfield Early? A Comprehensive Guide

The highly anticipated space RPG, Starfield, has finally launched, and many eager gamers are wondering if they could have jumped into the action early. The answer is a resounding yes, you could have played Starfield early, but there were specific conditions that needed to be met. This article delves into how early access was granted, when it began, and explores other related questions you might have about the game’s launch.

How Did Starfield Early Access Work?

Early access to Starfield wasn’t available to everyone. It was a perk for players who purchased specific editions of the game. To play up to five days earlier than the official launch date, gamers needed to buy either the Premium Edition (physical or digital) or the Constellation Edition (a physical-only collector’s box). The standard edition of the game did not include this early access privilege.

The Premium Edition, priced at $100, offered a variety of digital content in addition to the early access. This included:

• One Story Expansion: Access to the “Shattered Space” expansion upon its release.
• Constellation Skin Pack: Exclusive in-game cosmetic items.
• Digital Art Book: A digital compilation of the game’s artwork.
• Official Soundtrack: Access to the game’s music.

The Constellation Edition, a more elaborate physical package, provided similar early access and digital goodies, along with physical collectibles.

When Did Early Access Start?

The Starfield early access period commenced on Friday, September 1st, 2023. However, the exact time of availability varied based on time zones. Players in different regions gained access on the evening of Thursday, August 31st, 2023:

• East US (EDT): Thursday, August 31st at 8 pm.
• Central US (CDT): Thursday, August 31st at 7 pm.

This meant that those who had purchased either of the eligible editions could begin their interstellar journey up to five days before the official release on September 6th.

Starfield FAQs: Everything You Need to Know

To provide a more complete picture, here are 15 frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Starfield, its launch, and other details.

1. Is it still possible to play Starfield early?

No, early access for Starfield is no longer available. The early access period concluded with the full launch of the game on September 6th, 2023. All players now have equal access to the game.

2. How do I play Starfield without buying a premium edition?

You can play Starfield by purchasing the standard edition on Xbox or PC. Alternatively, if you are an Xbox Game Pass subscriber, you can play the game as part of your subscription once it was released on September 6th.

3. What are the main locations in Starfield’s early gameplay?

Starfield initially guides players through three major cities: New Atlantis, Akila City, and Neon. While these cities are central to early quests and activities, the game encourages exploration beyond these well-trodden paths.

4. Can I visit Earth in Starfield?

Yes, you can visit Earth in Starfield, and you can do so relatively early in the game. However, getting there requires having enough fuel for your ship, depending on your current location relative to the ‘Sol’ star system.

5. How long does it take to complete the main story in Starfield?

The main story of Starfield is approximately 30 to 40 hours long. Speedrunners might complete it in as few as 23 hours, while players who engage with side quests and exploration may find themselves playing for over 60 hours.

6. How many romanceable companions are in Starfield?

There are four romanceable companions in Starfield: Sarah Morgan, Barrett, Sam Coe, and Andreja. Developing relationships with these companions through in-game choices and interactions can lead to romantic subplots.

7. Should I focus on the main story first, or explore?

While the game’s developers suggest that the “true gameplay experience” unfolds after several dozen hours, it doesn’t mean you should rush through the main story. Progressing through the main questline unlocks intriguing mechanics but doesn’t revolutionize the core gameplay loop. It’s advised to play at your own pace.

8. Does the “New Zealand trick” work for Starfield?

No, the “New Zealand trick” did not work for Starfield, because it had a worldwide release. This applied both to the early access launch and the full release on September 6th.

9. Why wasn’t early access working for me?

If your early access wasn’t working on PC, ensure the game had finished downloading and unpacking files. You might also need to completely close Steam and reopen it.

10. What is the official launch time for Starfield?

The official launch time for Starfield was 5 p.m. MST on Tuesday, September 5th. The game is available on Xbox Series X|S and Windows.

11. Does Starfield run at 60 fps?

Starfield can reach 60 frames per second, though performance may vary according to the content being rendered. Using FSR 2 quality upscaling has been shown to help maintain higher frame rates while at a 4K output resolution.

12. Is it true that Starfield has 1000 planets?

Yes, Starfield does feature 1000 planets, but not all of them are packed with content. Bethesda aimed to ensure there was enough to do across the vast galaxy without over-saturating every planet with activities.

13. How many major cities does Starfield have?

Starfield has four major cities: New Atlantis, Akila, Neon, and The Key. The Key is a space station and serves as the headquarters for the Crimson Fleet faction.

14. Can you fly spaceships in Starfield?

Yes, flying a spaceship is a core element of Starfield. Learning to pilot a ship is one of the first steps in the game, and is essential for roaming the galaxy.

15. Is there a level cap in Starfield?

No, there is no level cap in Starfield. The game features an infinite leveling system, allowing players to continue leveling up indefinitely. Reaching level 100 will grant the “Reach for the Stars” achievement.

Conclusion

In summary, while early access for Starfield is no longer available, it provided an exciting opportunity for those who purchased the Premium Edition or Constellation Edition to jump into the game up to five days before the official launch. Now that the game is fully released, everyone can explore its vast universe through standard purchases or via their Xbox Game Pass subscription. This comprehensive guide should equip you with all the information you need to know about early access and other essential aspects of Starfield.