Bethesda Game Studios has just released a new update for its open-world sci-fi epic, Starfield, and it's brimming with enhancements that are bound to excite fans, particularly those in Canada and around the globe. Among the most anticipated features of this update is the introduction of a 60fps mode exclusive to the Xbox Series X, fulfilling a much-requested feature from the gaming community.
In an insightful five-and-a-half-minute video, Bethesda peeled back the curtain on the myriad of improvements and new features coming to Starfield. Most notably, the update brings a performance mode to Xbox Series X players. This mode is engineered to prioritize a smoother 60fps gameplay experience, albeit at the cost of lower resolution and pared-back details in effects, lighting, and crowd density. Last year, game director Todd Howard had informed IGN that the game was initially locked to 30fps on consoles to ensure a consistent performance standard across the board.
The decision to introduce a 60fps mode signals Bethesda's commitment to optimizing Starfield for player enjoyment, addressing previous concerns regarding the game's performance. While the PC version of Starfield wasn't subject to the 30fps limit, players still encountered challenges in achieving a steady 60fps at launch. This update raises curious speculation about how the enhanced framerate will fare on console platforms, particularly for players looking forward to exploring the vast expanses of Starfield's universe with smoother visuals.
Beyond framerate improvements, the May update ushers in a suite of enhancements including more detailed surface maps, additional interior ship decorations, and a list of crucial bug fixes, ensuring an even more immersive and polished experience for gamers. This update is currently available in beta on Steam, with a full rollout planned for Xbox consoles and PC on May 15th.
In addition to these gameplay improvements, Bethesda has also revealed that a new land vehicle is in the works, aimed at alleviating one of the game's early criticisms about the expanses of empty terrain players had to traverse on foot. This new vehicle is designed to make planetary exploration more efficient and enjoyable.
Furthermore, the studio is in the process of developing the first paid expansion for Starfield, titled “Shattered Space,” which is slated for release this fall. This expansion, alongside the May update's enhancements, highlights Bethesda's ongoing support for Starfield, promising to enrich the game's universe and the overall player experience.
As Starfield continues to evolve, Canadian fans and players worldwide have much to look forward to. With Bethesda's commitment to updates and expansions, the Starfield universe is set to become even more engaging and enjoyable for all who venture into its vast, star-filled galaxy.
