Starfield Release Delay Possible, Bethesda Promises Epic Experience

Speculation Mounts for Starfield 2: A "Hell of a Game" Years Away?

Though Starfield's 2023 launch is still fresh, whispers of a sequel are already circulating. While Bethesda remains tight-lipped, a former developer has offered intriguing insights.

Former Bethesda Lead Designer's Optimistic Outlook

Bruce Nesmith, a veteran Bethesda designer with credits on Skyrim and Oblivion, recently predicted that Starfield 2, if greenlit, will be "one hell of a game." Having departed Bethesda in September 2021, Nesmith believes the groundwork laid by the original Starfield provides a solid foundation for a superior sequel. He points to the iterative improvements seen between Morrowind, Oblivion, and Skyrim, suggesting Starfield 2 can learn from its predecessor's successes and shortcomings. Nesmith highlights that while Starfield was ambitious, much of it involved building new systems and technology from scratch. A sequel, he argues, can leverage this existing infrastructure to deliver a richer, more refined experience. He cited Mass Effect and Assassin's Creed as examples of franchises that blossomed with later installments, building upon and refining the initial game's concepts.

A Long Road Ahead: Years, Even a Decade, Until Launch?

Starfield's reception was mixed, with some criticism directed at pacing and content. However, Bethesda's commitment to Starfield as a core franchise alongside The Elder Scrolls and Fallout is evident. Todd Howard, Bethesda's director, has confirmed plans for annual story expansions for "hopefully a very long time." Bethesda's history of lengthy development cycles is well-documented. The Elder Scrolls VI, in pre-production since 2018, remains in early development. Fallout 5 is slated to follow The Elder Scrolls VI. Considering Phil Spencer's 2023 statement that The Elder Scrolls VI is "at least five years out," a Starfield 2 release before the mid-2030s seems unlikely.

The Future of Starfield: DLC and Beyond

While Starfield 2 remains hypothetical, Bethesda's dedication to the franchise is clear. The recent release of Shattered Space DLC addresses some initial concerns, and more DLC is planned. For now, fans can anticipate continued support for Starfield while patiently awaiting the potential arrival of its highly anticipated successor.