Few developers can rival Bethesda Game Studios when it comes to creating role-playing games. With franchises like Fallout and The Elder Scrolls under their belt, they have earned a reputation as pioneers in the genre. That's why there was so much anticipation surrounding the release of Starfield, especially since it marked the first new intellectual property from Bethesda in 25 years.
Considering the countless hours players have dedicated to previous Bethesda titles, there was much speculation about the length of Starfield during the game's development. Fans looking for another immersive experience will be thrilled with what the game has to offer. However, they may be caught off guard by the unique approach taken in organizing the game's content.
How Long Does it Take to Beat Starfield?
How Does Starfield Compare to Other Bethesda Games?
Starfield's main story line can be completed in less than 20 hours, and subsequent New Game Plus runs focusing solely on main story missions last around 90 minutes. However, it's important to emphasize that the main story is just a fraction of what Starfield has in store. The game offers an abundance of side content for players to indulge in. Those who embark on the mission to explore every star system and conquer every side quest can anticipate spending hundreds, if not thousands, of hours immersed in the world of Starfield.
While Starfield may not be as long as Fallout 4 and Skyrim, its shorter main story is compensated by an abundance of side content. These additional quests and activities often arise naturally as players progress through the main storyline. Consequently, players will likely find themselves frequently drawn away from the primary questline, tempted by captivating side quests or the chance to construct an outpost on a remote planet or moon.
Is Starfield too Short?
While Starfield may appear to be shorter in comparison on paper, its actual length might pleasantly surprise newcomers to Bethesda games or the RPG genre. Instead of needing to invest a significant amount of time, like forty or fifty hours, to complete the main story, players have the freedom to decide how much of Starfield's content they engage with. This approach removes the intimidating factor, making it much more accessible. Additionally, there is a wealth of side content available for those seeking more interstellar adventures, satisfying those who desired a longer, more traditional Bethesda title. Starfield is currently accessible on PC and Xbox Series X|S.