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MONSTER

Starfield

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Starfield
Item: Starfield
Author: Critik Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Shooter, Open World, RPG, Drama, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableSep 6, 2023

PlatformPC, Xbox Series X

DeveloperBethesda Game Studios

Overview

In this next generation role-playing game set amongst the stars, create any character you want and explore with unparalleled freedom as you embark on an epic journey to answer humanity’s greatest mystery.

Elsewhere

8.3

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive (80-100)

73%

Mixed (50-79)

23%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions of the critics regarding the story of Starfield are quite varied. Many critics highlight the positive aspects of the story, praising its intriguing elements and engaging narrative. Critics such as Hooked Gamers and Game Informer commend the main story for its cosmic mystery and the sense of adventure it evokes. They appreciate the well-written dialogue and the unique personalities of the characters, which enhance the storytelling experience. Additionally, critics like Player 2 and Siliconera appreciate the ambitious nature of the narrative, exploring themes of exploration, scientific discovery, and societal issues. They find the relationships with companions to be authentic and the worldbuilding to be detailed and varied. However, there are also critics who express some negative aspects of the story. Some critics, like Metro GameCentral and NPR, feel that the main story lacks depth and fails to offer new ideas, relying too heavily on established sci-fi tropes. They mention repetitive missions and a lack of urgency in the dialogue, which hampers the overall impact of the story. Other critics, such as Impulsegamer and Guardian, find the main story to be clichéd and less interesting compared to the additional story pathways and side quests. They believe that the story would benefit from more down-to-Earth dramas and a stronger focus on character development. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Starfield offers a mixed bag in terms of its story. While some critics appreciate the captivating narrative, engaging characters, and impactful tales, others find it lacking in originality and depth. The positive aspects mentioned by critics like Hardcore Gamer, PCWorld, and Pure Xbox highlight the strengths of the story, while the criticisms raised by critics like Metro GameCentral and NPR shed light on its weaknesses. Ultimately, it seems that the story of Starfield has its moments of brilliance but also falls short in certain areas, leaving room for improvement.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Critics have mixed opinions on the story of Starfield. Some praise its intriguing elements, engaging narrative, well-written dialogue, and unique characters. Others criticize its lack of depth, reliance on sci-fi tropes, and clichéd main story. While some appreciate the ambitious themes and worldbuilding, others feel the story lacks originality and character development. In conclusion, Starfield's story has moments of brilliance but also room for improvement, with both strengths and weaknesses highlighted by different critics.

Gameplay Mechanics

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive (80-100)

59%

Mixed (50-79)

41%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The opinions of the critics regarding the gameplay of Starfield are quite varied. Many critics praised the game for its engaging combat mechanics and satisfying gunplay. Dexerto, Cultured Vultures, and Pure Xbox all highlighted the combat as one of the game's strongest aspects, with a wide range of weapons and abilities to choose from. NME even went as far as calling it Bethesda's finest gunplay to date. The crafting and customization systems also received positive feedback, with Hooked Gamers and NME mentioning the ease of improving equipment and rewarding customization options for characters and ships. The ability to shape the game to fit different desires and the sandbox-like nature of the game were also praised by NPR and Screen Rant. However, there were also some criticisms regarding the gameplay of Starfield. Hardcore Gamer expressed disappointment with the skill unlocking system, finding it to be underwhelming. Game Informer mentioned that some activities can feel repetitive, and the moment-to-moment gameplay is not always a strong suit. Metro GameCentral criticized the combat and movement system as mediocre, and the AI as weak. Pocket-lint found the on-foot exploration to be slow and boring, although the space exploration aspect offered challenging dogfights. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Starfield offers a wide range of gameplay options and possibilities. The combat mechanics, particularly the gunplay, are often praised as some of Bethesda's best. The crafting and customization systems, as well as the ability to shape the game to fit different playstyles, were also well-received. However, there were some criticisms regarding repetitive activities, mediocre combat and movement systems, and weak AI. Despite these criticisms, the overall sentiment seems to be positive, with many critics praising the game's immersive and comprehensive gameplay mechanics.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Critics have mixed opinions on Starfield's gameplay. Praise for engaging combat and customization options, but criticism for repetitive activities and mediocre combat and movement systems. Overall, the game offers diverse gameplay possibilities, with strong gunplay and customization, but falls short in some areas like skill unlocking and AI. Despite flaws, many find Starfield's gameplay immersive and comprehensive.

Graphics and Visual Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive (80-100)

63%

Mixed (50-79)

37%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

In terms of the graphics and visual design of Starfield, there is a general consensus among the critics that the game has many positive aspects. Dexerto appreciates the detail in some areas, while GameStar describes the game's visual design as including neon-lit futuristic cities and functional outposts. GamesRadar++ praises Starfield for its good-looking visuals, detailed cities, and diverse environments. PCWorld commends the graphics for creating a believable sci-fi world with an enormous amount of love, and VGC highlights the jaw-dropping scale and abundance of flora and fauna on the planets. Cultured Vultures mentions that the towns and houses in Starfield feel lived in with plenty of lore and detail, and Game Informer describes the visual landscape as immaculate, filled with details juxtaposed against the grandeur of space. Guardian also praises the exquisitely designed world with distinct pockets of civilization and a retro-futuristic aesthetic. NPR mentions the gorgeous graphics and character customization settings, and Pure Xbox highlights the fantastic visuals, awe-inspiring vistas, and well-crafted environmental storytelling. However, there are some criticisms regarding the graphics and visual design of Starfield. Hardcore Gamer points out that there are some graphical issues, and the planetary exploration lacks variety and feels like copy and pasted filler. Digital Spy mentions that the procedural generation of planets leads to less interesting visuals compared to hand-crafted ones. Inverse notes visual glitches and disruptions that mar the experience, although a day-one patch aims to address many of these problems. Metro GameCentral criticizes the lack of a ground map and unimpressive tech and loading pauses. Screen Rant highlights the need for improvement in character model designs, detailed textures, and facial animations. Pocket-lint mentions muddy and desaturated visuals, as well as grey and brown planets with washed-out light. ZTGD points out awkward animations and character faces. Overall, the majority of critics appreciate the graphics and visual design of Starfield. The game is praised for its good-looking visuals, detailed cities, diverse environments, and immersive world design. The scale and abundance of flora and fauna on the planets, as well as the retro-futuristic aesthetic and distinct pockets of civilization, are also highly regarded. However, there are some criticisms regarding graphical issues, lack of variety in planetary exploration, procedural generation leading to less interesting visuals, visual glitches and disruptions, unimpressive tech and loading pauses, and areas for improvement in character designs and animations. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus is that Starfield is a visually appealing game that surpasses previous studio efforts and represents a generational leap for Bethesda.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Starfield's graphics impress with detailed cities, diverse environments, and immersive world design, earning praise for its scale and retro-futuristic aesthetic. While critics note graphical issues and lack of variety in exploration, the game's visuals fall short in character designs and animations. Overall, Starfield's visuals shine, marking a generational leap for Bethesda despite some room for improvement.

Music and Sound Design

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive (80-100)

100%

Mixed (50-79)

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The opinions of the critics regarding the sound design and music of Starfield are overwhelmingly positive. Many critics praised the orchestral score, describing it as superb, phenomenal, and stellar. Hooked Gamers and NME both highlight the orchestral suite as setting the tone for an enjoyable experience and capturing the excitement and danger of space. The wistful and questing musical score, as mentioned by Game Informer, enhances the engagement with the game and always nails the right mood. The orchestral music in Starfield is also commended for capturing an atmosphere of awe and wonder, reminiscent of Christopher Nolan's Interstellar, as noted by Siliconera. ZTGD specifically mentions the excellent main theme that sets the mood for exploration, along with the accompanying tracks. While the majority of the critics had positive opinions, there were no specific negative comments regarding the sound design and music of Starfield. It is important to note that the absence of negative feedback suggests that the sound design and music were generally well-received by the critics. However, it would have been beneficial to have more diverse opinions and criticisms to provide a more comprehensive analysis. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the sound design and music of Starfield are very good. The positive feedback from multiple critics, such as Hooked Gamers, NME, Game Informer, Siliconera, and ZTGD, highlights the excellence of the orchestral score, capturing the excitement, danger, and awe of space. The wistful and questing musical score enhances the engagement with the game, and the voice acting, writing, and sound effects are also commended. The lack of negative comments further reinforces the overall positive sentiment towards the sound design and music of Starfield.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Critics rave about Starfield's sound design and music, with praise for its superb orchestral score that sets a thrilling tone for the game. Positive feedback from various sources showcases the excellence of the music in capturing space's excitement and awe. No negative comments suggest a well-received soundtrack overall, though more diverse opinions could provide a fuller analysis. Overall, critics agree that Starfield's sound design and music are top-notch, enhancing the gaming experience with engaging tunes and atmospheric sounds.

Voice Acting

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive (80-100)

67%

Mixed (50-79)

22%

Negative (0-49)

11%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Starfield has received mostly positive reviews from the critics. Hooked Gamers mentions that the fully voiced dialogue is enjoyable, with the characters even calling the player by name, which adds a personal touch to the experience. Player 2 praises the voice acting for making the relationships with companions feel authentic and immersive, indicating that the performances successfully bring the characters to life. Cultured Vultures also commends the voice acting, stating that the characters are fairly well written and voice acted, with memorable companions. God is a Geek goes a step further and describes the voice acting as superb, indicating that the performances are of a particularly high standard. Impulsegamer highlights Jake Green's performance as Vasco, mentioning that it brings warmth and humor to the AI character, showcasing the talent of the voice actors involved. However, not all critics share the same positive sentiment towards the voice acting in Starfield. Metro GameCentral criticizes the voice acting, describing it as flat and the dialogue as banal. They also mention that the character animations are unnatural and outdated, which may detract from the overall immersion of the game. This negative perspective suggests that there may be room for improvement in terms of the voice acting performances and the execution of the dialogue. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that the voice acting in Starfield is generally well done. Positive aspects highlighted by the reviewers include enjoyable fully voiced dialogue, authentic and immersive performances that enhance the relationships with companions, well-written and memorable characters, and superb voice acting. However, there are also some negative points raised, such as flat voice acting, banal dialogue, and unnatural character animations. Taking into account the overall sentiment, it can be concluded that while the voice acting in Starfield has received praise for its strengths, there are areas where it could be further improved to enhance the overall experience for players.

TL;DR

voice acting

Critics mostly praise Starfield's voice acting for its enjoyable fully voiced dialogue, authentic performances, and memorable characters. Positive reviews note the personal touch of characters calling the player by name and Jake Green's standout performance as Vasco. However, some critics criticize the flat voice acting and banal dialogue, suggesting room for improvement in character animations. Overall, while Starfield's voice acting has strengths like superb performances, there are areas that could be enhanced for a better player experience.

Technical Performance

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive (80-100)

32%

Mixed (50-79)

64%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of the technical performance of Starfield on PC, the critics have expressed mixed opinions. Dexerto mentions encountering bugs and issues, while GamesRadar++ acknowledges minor issues like framerate stutters and occasional visual glitches. However, PCWorld highlights that the game launches almost bug-free, which is surprising for a Bethesda game. Overall, it seems that the PC version of Starfield has some technical issues, but they are generally manageable and do not significantly hinder the gameplay experience. Moving on to the Xbox Series X platform, the critics' opinions on the technical performance of Starfield are more varied. Cultured Vultures mentions consistent framerate drops in large city areas, while Game Rant acknowledges general jank, frame drops, and occasional visual/audio glitches. Guardian highlights awkward dialogue delivery, glitchy bodies, confusing menus, and flimsy combat. On the other hand, God is a Geek and NPR emphasize that the game has very few bugs or glitches, with only minor issues that do not impact gameplay. It is worth noting that Inverse mentions visual glitches and disruptions during the review period, but a day-one patch improved performance. Overall, the Xbox Series X version of Starfield seems to have a mix of technical issues, with some critics experiencing more problems than others. Taking into account the opinions of the critics on both PC and Xbox Series X, the overall consensus regarding the technical performance of Starfield is somewhat positive. While there are mentions of technical issues such as graphical glitches, occasional frame rate drops, and loading screens, the majority of critics highlight that the game is relatively bug-free and stable. PCWorld and Washington Post specifically praise Starfield for being the most technically sound release from Bethesda, with the game performing well even on weaker hardware. Additionally, Siliconera and Pure Xbox note that the game is polished with only minor issues encountered. Therefore, despite some technical hiccups, it appears that Starfield generally delivers a satisfactory technical performance on both PC and Xbox Series X platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Starfield's technical performance on PC shows some bugs and issues, but it launches almost bug-free, surprising for a Bethesda game. On Xbox Series X, there are varied opinions with some critics noting frame drops and glitches, while others praise its stability. Overall, critics find Starfield relatively bug-free and stable, delivering a satisfactory technical performance on both platforms.

Replay Value

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SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive (80-100)

64%

Mixed (50-79)

36%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The opinions of the critics regarding the replay value of Starfield are generally positive, with the majority of them expressing that the game offers a significant amount of content and exploration opportunities. Critics such as GamesRadar++ and NPR highlight the vastness of the game's universe and the wealth of gripping stories and role-playing potential, indicating that players can expect to be engaged for months, if not years. The game's ability to provide multiple playthroughs with different character traits and relationships, as mentioned by Player 2 and Impulsegamer, further enhances its replay value. Additionally, the inclusion of New Game Plus options, as noted by VGC and Game Rant, offers even more replayability and extends the longevity of the game. However, there are a few criticisms mentioned by some critics that may affect the overall replay value of Starfield. Digital Spy points out that some features in the game can be ignored and not explained, potentially hindering the player's desire to replay and fully engage with all the content. Inverse also mentions frustrations with mechanics like inventory management, which may deter some players from fully exploring everything the game has to offer. Despite these minor criticisms, the overall consensus among the critics is that Starfield has excellent replay value. The game's vast gameplay space, endless possibilities, and the continuous unfolding story system, as noted by Game Informer, GameCrate, and Siliconera, contribute to a universe well worth discovering. The inclusion of New Game Plus options, faction missions, and choices with repercussions, as highlighted by Screen Rant and Pure Xbox, further solidify the game's replayability. The positive opinions of the majority of the critics, along with their recognition of the game's content-rich nature and comparisons to timeless classics like The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and Fallout 4, indicate that Starfield offers a highly engaging and replayable experience for players.

TL;DR

replay value

Critics are raving about Starfield's replay value, praising its vast universe, gripping stories, and multiple playthrough options. Despite some minor criticisms about ignored features and frustrating mechanics, the majority agree that the game offers endless exploration opportunities and engaging gameplay. With New Game Plus options and choices with repercussions, Starfield is hailed as a must-play title with excellent replayability potential, drawing comparisons to beloved classics like Skyrim and Fallout 4.

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive (80-100)

79%

Mixed (50-79)

21%

Negative (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

In analyzing the opinions of multiple videogame reviewers regarding the overall verdict of Starfield, it is evident that the majority of critics had a very positive view of the game. The first paragraph will focus on the positives highlighted by the critics. GamesRadar++ praises Starfield as one of the best things Bethesda has done, emphasizing its strong sense of discovery, organic progression, and excellent world-building. PCWorld commends the game for combining the expansiveness of No Man's Sky, the dialogue depth of Fallout and Mass Effect, and offering an incredible amount of stories and gameplay mechanics. Gamereactor UK describes Starfield as a true masterpiece, highlighting its great battles, excellent exploration, varied content, great graphics, entertaining space travel, well-written dialogue, and easy-to-use menus. These positive aspects mentioned by the critics highlight the game's immersive world, engaging gameplay, and attention to detail. Moving on to the negatives, it is important to note that while the overall consensus is positive, there were still some criticisms raised by certain reviewers. Digital Spy mentions that the game's systems sometimes fight with each other and highlights a lack of consequences. Metro GameCentral criticizes Starfield for failing to fully realize its concept, lacking innovation and imagination, and relying too much on the legacy of Skyrim and Fallout. However, it is worth noting that these negative aspects mentioned by a few critics do not significantly detract from the overall positive reception of the game. Overall, the consensus among the critics is that Starfield is a highly enjoyable and impressive game. The majority of reviewers praised the game for its immersive world, engaging gameplay, and captivating narrative. Hardcore Gamer describes it as a momentous RPG with a staggering amount of content and systems, offering a gripping experience for fans of the genre. Player 2 believes Starfield is a remarkable achievement for Bethesda, delivering on its promises of exploration and narrative-driven RPG experience. Siliconera goes as far as to say that it is Bethesda's best game in years and one of the best sci-fi RPGs ever played, destined to be another classic like Skyrim. These positive assessments from a variety of critics highlight the game's overall success and its potential to become a beloved title in the RPG genre. In conclusion, the overall sentiment among the critics regarding the overall verdict of Starfield is overwhelmingly positive. The game is praised for its immersive world, engaging gameplay, captivating narrative, and attention to detail. While a few critics mention some shortcomings, such as conflicting systems and a lack of innovation, these criticisms do not significantly impact the overall positive reception of the game. Starfield is seen as a remarkable achievement for Bethesda, delivering on its promises and offering a memorable and enjoyable sci-fi RPG experience.

TL;DR

Critics overwhelmingly praise Starfield for its immersive world, engaging gameplay, and captivating narrative. Despite some minor criticisms, the majority view it as a highly enjoyable and impressive game, with some even calling it Bethesda's best in years and a sci-fi RPG classic in the making.

MONSTER

Reviews

252 reviews found

100

GamesRadar+

Aug 31, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Starfield is praised as one of the best things Bethesda has done, with a strong sense of discovery, organic progression, and excellent world building.

Read full review

100

Game Rant

Xbox Series X

Aug 31, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Starfield delivers on everything it promised and more, offering an engrossing and must-play sci-fi experience. It has the potential to be played religiously for the next decade and is considered the best Xbox console exclusive in years.

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100

PCWorld

Sep 6, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Starfield is the space RPG epic players have been wanting for a long time. It combines the expansiveness of No Man's Sky, the dialogue depth of Fallout and Mass Effect, and offers an incredible amount of stories and gameplay mechanics. The heavy reliance on fast travel and the need to build bases on planets may bother some players, but overall, it's a hit.

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100

Player 2

Aug 31, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Starfield is an ambitious and technically impressive game that delivers on its promises of exploration and narrative-driven RPG experience. It offers a unique blend of Fallout, Mass Effect, and Firefly, and feels like something special. While not perfect, it is a remarkable achievement for Bethesda.

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100

Washington Post

Xbox Series X

Aug 31, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Starfield is a technically sound release with a diverse and engaging main storyline, satisfying gameplay mechanics, and impressive graphics. However, it sacrifices intimacy and environmental cohesion.

100

Impulsegamer

Xbox Series X

Sep 19, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Starfield is a worthy investment for those who enjoy sci-fi RPGs. It offers a vast universe to explore, engaging gameplay, and impressive graphics. The bugs encountered were not game-breaking.

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100

VGC

Aug 31, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Starfield is an excellent game that refines the Bethesda RPG formula and offers an engrossing experience. It doesn't reinvent the wheel but delivers a captivating journey in an enormous galaxy.

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Gaming Age

Xbox Series X

Aug 31, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Starfield is a very good RPG with a breath of fresh air in terms of its space exploration setting. It offers a huge game with good overall quality.

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Pure Xbox

Xbox Series X

Sep 7, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Starfield is Bethesda's best RPG to date, with engaging exploration, satisfying combat, and a captivating narrative. Despite some minor issues, it ranks among the best games of the year.

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Screen Rant

Xbox Series X

Aug 31, 2023

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Starfield is an instant classic and a triumphant homecoming to blockbuster gaming for Bethesda Game Studios. It is ambitious, introduces new concepts, and offers engaging storytelling, charismatic characters, and an enthralling world.

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