8 Critical Lessons Starfield Must Learn from Fallout 4 for Unprecedented Success

Starfield, the highly anticipated sci-fi RPG, has a lot of expectations to meet as its release draws near. Drawing inspiration from the successful Bethesda title, Fallout 4, Starfield has the opportunity to deliver an exceptional gaming experience. Fallout 4 introduced several groundbreaking features that captivated players, and if Starfield can incorporate these elements while adding its own unique touch, it has the potential to become a truly immersive masterpiece. This raises the question: what lessons can Starfield learn from the triumphs of Fallout 4?

10 Weapon & Armor Modification

Starfield has the potential to elevate the weapon and armor modification system to new levels, just like Fallout 4 did. The excitement of turning ordinary weapons into formidable tools of destruction provided endless enjoyment for players. In Starfield, this concept can be expanded upon, offering a wide array of cutting-edge weaponry and advanced armor for players to customize.

From equipping energy rifles with devastating modifications to crafting futuristic exosuits with enhanced capabilities, the possibilities should be as vast as the cosmos itself. Players should have the freedom to unleash their creativity and forge weapons that will instill fear in even the most formidable foes lurking in the depths of space.

9 Dialogue Options

Starfield's dialogue system has been improved based on the criticism Fallout 4 faced for its perceived limitations. The gameplay footage released so far suggests that the dialogue system in Starfield is more polished and immersive. It seems that players will have a range of dialogue options and meaningful choices, empowering them to shape their character's journey and impact the game's events. With its interactive and dynamic conversations, Starfield has the potential to offer a captivating narrative experience set in its expansive and immersive universe.

8 Karma

The absence of a Karma system in Fallout 4 made sense given its post-apocalyptic setting, but it left a void for fans who valued the moral guidance it provided in previous games. In Starfield, a similar system could be implemented to bring depth and consequences to players' actions. By introducing a reputation system influenced by their choices, Starfield can offer players the opportunity to forge their own path through the vastness of space.

Whether players opt to embody virtuous heroes or embrace unparalleled evil, their decisions would shape their reputation in the universe and affect how others perceive and interact with them. This moral flexibility would greatly enhance the immersive storytelling experience in Starfield.

7 Factions

Crafting factions in Starfield that captivate a diverse audience, akin to Skyrim's factions, is crucial. The game should offer compelling narratives and meaningful incentives for players to align themselves with factions, whether they be space-faring pirates or intergalactic diplomats. By creating well-rounded factions with distinct identities and motivations, Starfield can enhance the immersive storytelling and gameplay experience, ensuring that players are truly invested in their chosen allegiances.

6 Environments

Starfield has the opportunity to enhance its gameplay by taking notes from Fallout 4's attempt to break the monotony of its post-apocalyptic environment. By incorporating vibrant colors and a distinct 1950s aesthetic, Starfield can infuse life and excitement into its portrayal of barren planets and the outer reaches of the universe. This can be achieved through visually captivating landscapes that constantly engage players and ignite their curiosity to explore. Whether it's lush alien jungles or sprawling desert wastelands, the diverse range of environments in Starfield will breathe new life into the vastness of space, offering each planetary adventure a unique and captivating experience, while avoiding the pitfalls of Fallout's repetitive scenery.

5 Game-Changing Mods

Embracing and actively supporting the modding community has proven to be a vital factor in the success and longevity of the Fallout series. In order to replicate this achievement, Starfield should prioritize and encourage modding right from the start. By doing so, Starfield can foster a passionate and creative modding community that will continually infuse the game with fresh ideas and experiences.

The potential of mods is limitless, spanning from the creation of captivating planetary landscapes and unique alien species to the introduction of innovative gameplay mechanics and stunning graphics enhancements. Allowing players to unleash their imagination and share their creative endeavors will propel Starfield to new heights, offering an abundance of possibilities and ensuring that the game remains captivating and invigorating for years to come.

4 Replayability

Starfield should aim to replicate the remarkable replayability that Fallout 4 was known for. The game should strive to offer the same level of variety by allowing players to embark on new playthroughs with different playstyles, character builds, and moral choices. This will add a significant amount of depth and excitement to the gameplay experience. To achieve this, Starfield should provide a wide range of planets for players to explore, each presenting its own set of challenges and opportunities.

In addition, players should have the freedom to align themselves with various factions, resulting in different storylines and outcomes. By ensuring that every journey through the vastness of space feels unique and rewarding, Starfield will create an immersive and endlessly captivating experience that will keep players coming back for more.

3 NPCs and Companions

In Starfield, the importance of creating a captivating and diverse group of companions cannot be overstated, much like the impactful NPCs and allies in Fallout 4. Characters such as Nick Valentine, Hancock, and Strong brought the post-apocalyptic world to life and became cherished companions for players, enhancing their journey through the desolate wasteland. To replicate this success, Starfield must introduce a cast of companions who not only offer companionship but also bring humor, drama, and camaraderie to the interstellar adventure. Whether they are extraterrestrial beings, advanced AI constructs, or quirky mercenaries, these companions should serve as more than just allies, offering a sense of depth and emotional connection to the cosmic odyssey.

2 Laser Weapons

In previous Fallout games, the laser weapons have consistently failed to meet the high expectations placed upon them. Even in the most recent installments, such as Fallout 4 and Fallout 76, these weapons have lacked the awe-inspiring power that one would associate with advanced technology. Starfield should take note of this and ensure that its own high-tech weaponry truly lives up to its potential.

Imagine a devastating plasma cannon that obliterates enemies with a single shot, or a precision laser rifle that cuts through foes with unparalleled accuracy. These futuristic weapons should instill fear in those who face them, and leave players in absolute awe of their destructive capabilities. With Starfield, let us witness a cosmic arsenal that redefines the very concept of firepower within the realm of science fiction.

1 Settlements

The settlement-building feature in Fallout 4 had a unique charm that some loved and others despised. However, Starfield has the opportunity to build upon this foundation and elevate player creativity to unprecedented levels. Just imagine the ability to construct and personalize expansive space stations, establish outposts on unexplored planets, or even create vibrant intergalactic cities.

By allowing players to shape the cosmos according to their individual visions, whether it be a bustling trade hub filled with alien life or a hidden space bar in the farthest reaches of the galaxy, Starfield could introduce a whole new dimension to the gameplay experience. Through enhancements and thrilling new possibilities, the settlement-building aspect of Starfield has the potential to become an extraordinary feature, cultivating a sense of ownership and complete immersion in the vastness of the universe.

Starfield releases on September 6th, 2023 for Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and PC.