Revolutionary Combat Mechanics in Starfield Set a New Standard Beyond Fallout 4

Highlights

Starfield's combat mechanics have significantly improved from previous Bethesda RPGs, with precise and satisfying shooting that doesn't require the use of VATS.

The weapons in Starfield offer greater effectiveness and diversity, bringing a sense of purpose and satisfaction when employed to overcome skill challenges and participate in shootouts. The game intricately balances weapon damage and enemy health, guaranteeing that enemies are not excessively resilient to bullets and headshots are particularly potent in eliminating them.

Starfield, Bethesda's newest RPG, has garnered praise from early access players for its similarities to the developer's previous work, particularly Fallout 4. The game successfully builds upon the systems introduced in Fallout 4, particularly in its first-person shooting combat. Despite the absence of the signature VATS mechanic from previous Fallout games, Starfield's combat stands out as some of the best implemented in a Bethesda game.

VATS, also known as the Vault-Tec Assisted Targeting System, added a tactical and strategic layer to the first-person shooting in Bethesda's Fallout games. It compensated for the imprecise feel of shooting from the hip or aiming down sights, allowing players to overcome any deficiencies in the shooting mechanics. However, Bethesda has made significant improvements to the shooting mechanics in Starfield, to the extent that the exclusion of VATS is hardly noticeable in this latest RPG epic.

Starfield's FPS Combat Is Satisfyingly Visceral

Starfield's combat surpasses that of Fallout 4, with significant improvements made to the first-person shooting mechanics. While VATS provided some relief for the imprecise shooting in previous Fallout games, Fallout 4's standard combat without VATS already offered a more realistic FPS experience. Starfield's decision to remove VATS has only benefited the game, as weapons now not only have satisfying feedback and sound design but also feel more accurate and effective.

In Starfield, whether utilizing ballistic, beam, or melee weapons, each armament serves a purpose. This adds to the satisfaction of completing skill challenges associated with each weapon. While players have the option to resolve situations through dialogue or stealth, the game's exceptional combat now provides even more incentive for engaging in shootouts. While VATS allowed players to slow down time and target specific body parts to disarm or disable enemies, its exclusion in Starfield maintains the natural flow of encounters and ultimately enhances the overall gameplay experience.

Weapon Damage and Enemy Health are Finely-Tuned in Starfield

Bethesda has successfully improved the combat in Starfield by finding a balance between damage output and enemy health. The enemies are no longer bullet sponges, and the weapons feel powerful. Headshots are particularly effective against foes, and players no longer need to rely on VATS to achieve desired effects.

While Bethesda games have always been known for their immersive worlds and player-driven storytelling, the combat was often seen as a necessary but unexciting aspect. However, Starfield manages to combine the best of both worlds. Players have the freedom to approach the game's galaxy in their own way, but when a shootout is necessary, it becomes an exciting and enjoyable experience.

Starfield is available now in early access launch for PC and Xbox Series X/S.