What To Know Before You Start Playing Starfield | MarkMeets Gaming

Exploring Starfield and its Impact on Gamers’ Behavior

Table of Contents

• Introduction: Starfield’s Release and Gamer Reactions
• The Influence of Pre-Release Hype
• Bethesda’s Unique Approach to Review Copies
• The Dangerous Cult of Blind Loyalty
• Shifting Justifications and Their Implications
• The Dilemma of Ignoring Reviews
• Starfield’s Success: A Review-Proof Game
• Conclusion: A Minefield of Toxic Behavior

Introduction: Starfield’s Release and Gamer Reactions

The gaming world was buzzing with anticipation as Starfield, Bethesda’s ambitious sci-fi RPG, finally made its debut. For many gamers, this was a momentous occasion, marking the most significant first-party launch for Xbox since the Xbox 360 era. However, the release of Starfield was not without its share of controversy and divisive reactions, leaving both fans and industry observers pondering the impact of pre-release hype and the behavior of loyal fanbases.

The Influence of Pre-Release Hype

Starfield’s journey to launch was marked by an extraordinary level of hype and expectation. Bethesda, known for its iconic franchises like The Elder Scrolls and Fallout, had spent years teasing and hinting at their next big project. This generated immense excitement among gamers, who eagerly speculated about what Starfield would offer.

Pre-release hype can be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it generates immense anticipation and drives pre-orders, which publishers love. On the other hand, it sets lofty expectations that can be difficult to meet. Gamers often envision their ideal game, fueled by trailers, teaser images, and developer interviews, which can lead to disappointment if the final product falls short of those dreams.

Bethesda’s Unique Approach to Review Copies

As Starfield’s launch approached, Bethesda took a unique approach to providing review copies to the press. Some UK websites and YouTube channels received advance copies of the game, while others were conspicuously left out. This decision was puzzling, as it included sites known for their rigorous reviews, such as Edge, Eurogamer, and GameCentral, as well as seemingly random choices like The Guardian and YouTube channels that didn’t typically produce game reviews.

The motive behind this selective distribution of review copies was unclear, but it left many questioning Bethesda’s intentions. Was it an attempt to maintain a high Metacritic score by limiting critical reviews? Or did it reflect a deeper concern about dissenting opinions in previous reviews?

The Dangerous Cult of Blind Loyalty

What followed the selective distribution of review copies was even more perplexing. A significant portion of Bethesda and Xbox fans didn’t express anger or concern about the publisher’s actions; instead, they believed that these sites deserved to be treated poorly for daring to express negative opinions about Xbox games in the past.

This reaction was alarming and disturbing, as it showcased an extreme level of blind loyalty to a corporation. Whether it was Bethesda or Xbox, it became evident that this loyalty was not exclusive to a particular brand. Sony fans, it was argued, would likely have reacted in a similar manner if the situation had been reversed.

Shifting Justifications and Their Implications

What made this blind loyalty even more unsettling was the inconsistency in justifications. As new details emerged and additional reviews were published, fans found themselves constantly shifting their reasons for defending Bethesda’s actions. Initially, they seemed to expect Starfield to receive universal acclaim with 10/10 reviews. However, when this didn’t materialize, they began questioning the credibility of sites like IGN and GameSpot while elevating obscure, positive reviews from less-known sources.

This constant shift in justifications revealed the precarious nature of this loyalty, driven more by a desire to protect a particular vision of the game than by rational or consistent thinking. It highlighted the danger of investing so deeply in a corporation’s products that any criticism is perceived as a personal attack.

The Dilemma of Ignoring Reviews

Ironically, the same fans who derided the concept of reviews were often the first to complain when a game didn’t meet their expectations. They had the opportunity to make informed decisions and save time and money by reading reliable reviews before purchasing. Yet, they chose to disregard this valuable resource.

The aversion to reviews created a peculiar situation where the success of Starfield was seemingly unaffected by critical assessments. Most fans had pre-ordered the game months in advance, and others could access it at no extra cost through Game Pass. In this context, the impact of reviews on sales seemed minimal, yet the fervor around the game persisted.

Starfield’s Success: A Review-Proof Game

Ultimately, Starfield’s success appeared impervious to reviews. Bethesda had cultivated a loyal following that extended beyond traditional critical evaluations. Pre-release hype, exclusive access, and the allure of exploring an expansive sci-fi universe had already won over many gamers. They were willing to embrace Starfield despite any reservations expressed by reviewers.

While reviews play a crucial role in informing gamers and providing constructive feedback to developers, it became evident that some games, especially those backed by powerful franchises and extensive marketing campaigns, could transcend traditional evaluation mechanisms.

Conclusion: A Minefield of Toxic Behavior

The release of Starfield showcased not only the power of pre-release hype but also the potential dangers of blind loyalty to corporations and products. It revealed the complex relationship between gamers, developers, and the gaming press, where tribalism and fervor often overshadowed critical analysis.

Starfield, the long-awaited sci-fi RPG from Bethesda, has finally arrived, and it’s a vast and intricate gaming experience. With its multitude of menus, sprawling cities, complex skill trees, and various activities such as resource mining, base building, and ship customization, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Before diving headfirst into the outer reaches of the galaxy, here are some essential tips and advice to help you navigate the early stages of the game.

1. Don’t Worry About Your Character’s Appearance

Your character’s appearance is not set in stone. You can change it at any time by visiting an Enhance! shop and paying 500 credits. The nearest one at the start of the game can be found in the commercial district in New Atlantis.

2. Save Your Game Frequently

In Starfield, unexpected events can happen at any time. You might fail a persuasion attempt, encounter formidable alien foes, or accidentally crash your ship into a space station. While the game does auto-save, it’s not infallible, so make it a habit to create hard saves regularly. After all, it’s a Bethesda game, and these tend to have their fair share of surprises.

3. Adjust Sound Settings for a Better Experience

When you first start the game, the music is loud and intense, which can sometimes make it difficult to hear dialogue. To improve your gaming experience, increase the voice volume and lower the music volume in the settings. This will allow you to follow the story and conversations more easily without missing out on the soundtrack.

4. Loot Pirates After the First Fight

In the early stages of Starfield, you’ll encounter your first major battle with space pirates. Before leaving the scene, be sure to loot the pirates’ bodies, as you can acquire valuable items, including assault rifles, that will come in handy later in the game.

5. Utilize Your Companions for Storage

Your early-game companion, Vasco, can carry a substantial amount of items for you. Take advantage of this feature by looting everything you come across and then transferring the items to Vasco. This allows you to maximize your inventory space while ensuring you have access to the gear you need.

6. Make Use of Cover in Combat

Starfield’s combat system features dynamic cover mechanics, making it different from previous Bethesda RPGs. You can take cover and pop out to shoot, enhancing your combat experience. This modern approach to combat is a welcome change from the mechanics seen in Fallout 4 and Skyrim.

7. Employ the Laser Mining Tool in Battles

The Cutter, your initial mining tool, can be surprisingly effective in combat. It has unlimited ammo and a cooldown mechanic, making it a handy tool for close-range encounters. Don’t hesitate to use it to conserve precious ammunition in the early stages of the game.

8. Optimize Your Helmet and Space Suit

In Starfield, you’ll need to wear your helmet and space suit when exploring space or hazardous environments. However, you can set them to automatically appear and disappear when needed. This feature ensures you won’t look like an astronaut in cities or stations, providing a more immersive experience.

9. Invest in the Persuasion Trait

Putting points into the persuasion trait early on can save you resources and help you avoid unnecessary conflicts. A higher persuasion skill increases your chances of resolving situations peacefully and manipulating people to your advantage.

10. Beware of Selling Equipped Gear

When selling items, be cautious not to accidentally part with gear you have equipped. The game won’t warn you about this, so pay attention to what you’re selling to prevent unwanted losses.

11. Save Time with Fast Travel Through the Quest Menu

You don’t always need to navigate the star chart to travel to a new planet or location. If you’ve been there before and want to reach a specific destination for a mission, use the “select course” option in the pause menu to instantly head to your desired location. This can save you valuable time.

12. Use Your Helmet Sensor for Scanning

Starfield equips you with a helmet sensor that allows you to scan everything in your vicinity. This includes planets, nearby enemies, valuable loot, and even fauna for extra experience points. Utilize this scanning feature to its full potential, and it can significantly enhance your gameplay.

13. Remember to Rest

Sleeping in Starfield not only fully restores your health but also grants you a “well-rested” bonus, which accelerates your XP gain. Take advantage of this mechanic whenever you have the opportunity.

14. Make Use of the Research Station

Your ship is equipped with a research station that allows you to unlock new crafting options for guns, suits, helmets, and even cooking. To access these features, gather the necessary materials like iron and fiber, and begin your research. Enhancing your equipment can make your journey through Starfield more enjoyable.

15. Beware of Spending Digipicks While Lockpicking

When lockpicking, be cautious with the use of digipicks. They can be scarce, so use them wisely to avoid running out when you need them most.

16. Utilize Your Ship’s Inventory

Your ship has a cargo hold where you can store excess items. Instead of burdening your companions or dropping items on the floor, select the ship’s cargo hold from the menu (bottom left) to efficiently manage your inventory.

17. Set Weapon and Healing Item Favorites

While the game might not explicitly mention it early on, you can designate favorite weapons and healing items. This feature allows you to quickly switch between items during combat without navigating the game’s menus. Customize your favorites to streamline your gameplay experience.

In Conclusion

Starfield offers a rich and immersive gaming experience, but mastering its mechanics takes time. By following these tips, you can ease your journey through the game’s early stages and make the most of your adventure in the outer reaches of the galaxy. Whether you’re negotiating with barkeeps, battling space pirates, or exploring alien worlds, these strategies will help you navigate the complexities of Starfield and enjoy every moment of your interstellar adventure.

In an industry driven by innovation and creativity, it is essential to strike a balance between enthusiasm and critical thinking. Blindly defending or attacking a product based on loyalty to a brand can lead to toxic behavior and a failure to appreciate the diverse perspectives that make gaming a vibrant and evolving medium. As we continue to explore the vast frontiers of gaming, it is crucial to navigate them with open minds and a healthy skepticism that respects the opinions and experiences of all gamers.