Starfield: The Most Anticipated Game of the Decade – Everything You Need to Know
Prepare for an epic space adventure as Bethesda's highly anticipated Starfield is set to launch soon! Discover the release date, available editions, preorder bonuses, and where to buy Get ready to embark on a thrilling cosmic journey like never before!
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When and Where Does Starfield Launch?What Preorder Bonuses Do I Get With Starfield?
What Versions of Starfield Are Available at Launch?
Xbox Game Pass & Game Pass Ultimate
What Edition of Starfield Should You Purchase?
Starfield Standard Edition
Starfield Premium Edition Upgrade
Starfield Premium Edition
Starfield Constellation Edition
The Limited Edition Starfield Xbox Controller
The Starfield Limited Edition Xbox Wireless Headset
AMD's Starfield PC Bundle Offer
Starfield: Which Edition is the Best Choice?
Starfield is generating a lot of excitement as the highly anticipated title of the year. Its worldwide release is scheduled for the 6th of September, which is approximately 6 weeks away. Bethesda Game Studios' ambitious venture into a new universe after 25 years offers various avenues for exploration. However, not all options are created equal due to the abundance of merchandise, deals, and numerous editions of the game expected to be offered at launch.
When and Where Does Starfield Launch?
Starfield will be available for launch on September 6, 2023, across Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, and Windows-based PCs. Users have the option to purchase either the Premium Edition ($100) or the Constellation Edition ($300) to gain early access to the game, starting five days before its official release. Additionally, Starfield will be featured as part of the Xbox Game Pass on its first day of availability.
What Preorder Bonuses Do I Get With Starfield?
The Starfield Old Mars Skin Pack (credit: Bethesda Softworks)
All preorder copies of Starfield are automatically eligible for the "Old Mars Skin Pack" for Starfield, offering the following skins:
Laser Cutter
Deep Mining Helmet
Deep Mining Pack
What Versions of Starfield Are Available at Launch?
There are 4 versions of Starfield available to you at launch, all with their specific bundles on offer:
The Standard Edition
The Digital Premium Edition
The Premium Edition Upgrade
The Constellation Edition
Currently, Bethesda Softworks is offering four different versions of Starfield. It is crucial to mention that in order to enjoy the Premium Edition Upgrade, players must have a copy of the Standard Edition or an active Game Pass subscription. This applies to both the digital and physical editions, although the digital edition is exclusively available on the Xbox Store at the moment.
Xbox Game Pass & Game Pass Ultimate
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate
Xbox Game Pass Ultimate, the premium subscription tier of Microsoft's flagship game service, provides access to a vast collection of over 100 game titles. With just a single purchase, it offers unparalleled value for gamers within the Xbox ecosystem.
Available for $14 on Amazon and $17 on Xbox.
By subscribing to Xbox Game Pass or Game Pass Ultimate, you gain access to the standard edition of Starfield. This not only qualifies you for the preorder bonuses but also allows you to upgrade to the Premium Edition. It is important to note that an active subscription is always required to play the game, even if you own the Premium Edition. Xbox Game Pass starts at just $11 per month for the base subscription and occasionally offers trials for as little as a dollar. This makes it a highly cost-effective option, particularly if you are planning to splurge on the Premium Edition to enjoy the available bonuses.
What Edition of Starfield Should You Purchase?
Starfield Standard Edition
Introducing Starfield: Standard Edition
Discover Starfield, the highly anticipated action role-playing game (ARPG) that represents Bethesda's bold venture into a fresh universe after a quarter of a century. Crafted by the talented developers behind acclaimed and commercially successful titles like The Elder Scrolls: Skyrim and Fallout 4, this game stands as Bethesda's first major new AAA intellectual property since being acquired by Microsoft in March 2021.
ESRB Mature (M) 17+
How Long To Beat TBA
Platforms: Xbox, PC
Rating: M
Genre: ARPG
Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
Price: $70 at Amazon, $70 at GameStop, $70 at Best Buy
The standard edition of Starfield includes a copy of the game on launch day, the preorder bonuses in the form of the Old Mars Skin Pack, and the option to upgrade to the premium edition either digitally or physically. It's important to note that in order to take advantage of the 5 days of early access offered by the premium edition upgrade, you need to have a digital copy of Starfield or an active Game Pass subscription.
Starfield Premium Edition Upgrade
Starfield Premium Edition Upgrade
The Premium Edition Upgrade for Starfield offers two different packages, depending on whether you choose the physical or digital upgrade edition. Both packages provide gamers with a 5-day early access, but the physical edition also includes additional goodies that are available at select retailers.
ESRB Rating: Mature (M) 17+
How Long To Beat: TBA
Platforms: Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, PC
Rating: M
Genre: ARPG
Publisher: Bethesda Softworks
Developer: Bethesda Game Studios
Price: $35 at Amazon, $35 at GameStop, $35 at Best Buy
The Starfield Premium Edition upgrade offers an enticing option for those who currently have an Xbox Game Pass subscription or have already preordered the game digitally. By choosing this upgrade, you can enjoy playing the game on the 1st of September, instead of its standard launch date of the 6th of September. Moreover, if you have plans to experience the first expansion pack DLC, Shattered Space, when it becomes available, this upgrade is a must. Additionally, the upgrade grants you access to the Constellation Skin Pack DLC, which features the Equinox Laser Rifle, Spacesuit, Helmet, and Boost Pack. Furthermore, you will receive the Starfield Digital Artbook & Original Soundtrack, providing you with a complete and immersive experience.
If you decide to go for the physical edition, you also get the following extras:
A bundled Starfield steelbook display case
The Constellation patch is a cost-effective upgrade for users who already have access or have preordered. It is important to note that there are limitations to this upgrade. It is exclusively available for Xbox Series S and X digital purchases or purchases made on the Microsoft Store. If you have preordered Starfield on Steam, you will not be able to take advantage of the Premium Edition Upgrade.
Starfield Premium Edition
Starfield Premium Edition
The Premium Edition of Starfield is exclusively sold digitally on the Microsoft Store, Xbox Store, and Steam. It includes early access to the base game, the first expansion pack, and the constellation skin pack, as well as access to the Starfield Digital Artbook & Original Soundtrack. Created using Engine Creation Engine 2, Starfield has been rated Mature (M) for players aged 17 and older. The estimated playtime is yet to be announced. Starfield is available on Xbox and PC platforms, published by Bethesda Softworks and developed by Bethesda Game Studios. You can find it for $100 on Amazon and Xbox.
Starfield Constellation Edition
The Starfield Premium Edition can be purchased on Steam, Microsoft Store, and the Xbox Store for a total of $100. It includes the first expansion pack, the Starfield Digital Artbook & Original Soundtrack, the constellation skin DLC, and preorder bonuses. If you wish to purchase the Premium Edition on Steam, this is the only option available as the upgrade edition is not offered on this platform. Additionally, buying the game and the premium edition upgrade separately would cost $5 more, so purchasing the Premium Edition directly is a more economical choice for players who desire these additional features.
Introducing the Starfield Constellation Edition! This extraordinary package offers fans everything that the premium edition includes, plus an array of additional physical treasures. Alongside the coveted Constellation patch and Steelbook from the Premium Edition, you'll also receive the remarkable Starfield Chronomark Watch, accompanied by a stylish watch case. This remarkable bundle is available at a suggested retail price of $300.
The Engine Creation Engine 2 has been rated Mature (M) for ages 17 and up by ESRB. The game's length is yet to be determined and it is available on Xbox and PC platforms. The publisher and developer of the game is Bethesda Softworks and Bethesda Game Studios respectively. It can be purchased for $300 at Best Buy, Amazon, and GameStop.
For fans of the Starfield franchise who are not satisfied with the Premium Edition, Bethesda offers the Constellation Edition. This ultimate edition includes everything from the Physical Premium Upgrade edition, as well as a Starfield Chronomark Watch and a accompanying case. Currently, it seems to be sold out on all major vendors we monitor. However, we anticipate that stocks will become available at regular intervals on GameStop, Amazon, and Best Buy. Checking for stock frequently may be the only way to secure this expensive collector's edition, priced at $300 per unit.
Starfield is also launching with 2 themed accessories that might be of interest to PC and Console Gamers alike:
The Limited Edition Starfield Xbox Controller
Introducing the Xbox Wireless Controller Starfield Limited Edition
Get your hands on the Xbox Wireless Controller Starfield Limited Edition, a must-have for gaming enthusiasts and avid collectors alike. This controller stands out with its eye-catching design, making it one of the most visually appealing Xbox wireless controllers available. Ideal for fans of Bethesda or the highly anticipated Starfield, this limited edition controller is the perfect addition to complete your collection this summer.
The Microsoft Store has sold out of the Limited Edition Starfield Xbox Wireless Controller, but it may still be available at other retailers. If you're worried about it selling out before the release of Starfield, it could be a good option to consider. This controller is a regular Xbox Controller with the Starfield theme. Currently, we have no information about any limited edition Elite Core or Elite Series 2 controllers for Starfield, so this limited edition controller appears to be in high demand.
The Starfield Limited Edition Xbox Wireless Headset
Starfield Limited Edition Xbox Wireless Headset
The Starfield Limited Edition Xbox Wireless Headset is a special edition headset designed with a Starfield theme. It comes at a higher price compared to the base model, which retails for $80. This limited edition version is based on Microsoft's popular Wireless Headset and is the official wireless option for Xbox gamers.
You can find the Starfield Limited Edition Xbox Wireless Headset priced at $135 on Amazon, and $125 at both GameStop and Best Buy.
AMD's Starfield PC Bundle Offer
The Starfield Limited Edition Xbox Wireless Headset is a must-have for Starfield and Bethesda enthusiasts. While it does come with a substantial $45 price premium compared to the standard black version, it offers an outstanding value. This headset is perfect for gamers who want to create a complete Starfield-themed console or PC setup ahead of the highly anticipated game's release in the first week of September.The CPUs and GPUs that meet the requirements for receiving a free copy of Starfield Standard Edition are:
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800X
- AMD Ryzen 9 5900X
- AMD Ryzen 9 5950X
- AMD Radeon RX 6700 XT
- AMD Radeon RX 6800
- AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT
- AMD Radeon RX 6900 XT
CPUs:
• AMD Ryzen™ 7 7800X3D
• AMD Ryzen™ 7 7700X
• AMD Ryzen™ 7 7700
• AMD Ryzen™ 5 7600X
• AMD Ryzen™ 5 7600
GPUs:
• AMD Radeon™ RX 7600
• AMD Radeon™ RX 6650 XT
• AMD Radeon™ RX 6600 XT
• AMD Radeon™ RX 6600
CPUs and GPUs that currently qualify for Starfield Premium Edition are:
CPUs:
• AMD Ryzen™ 9 7950X3D
• AMD Ryzen™ 9 7950X
• AMD Ryzen™ 9 7900X3D
• AMD Ryzen™ 9 7900X
• AMD Ryzen™ 9 7900
GPUs:
• AMD Radeon™ RX 7900 XTX
• AMD Radeon™ RX 7900 XT
• AMD Radeon™ RX 6950 XT
• AMD Radeon™ RX 6900 XT
• AMD Radeon™ RX 6800 XT
• AMD Radeon™ RX 6800
• AMD Radeon™ RX 6750 XT
• AMD Radeon™ RX 6700 XT
• AMD Radeon™ RX 6700
In addition to this, qualifying retailers will offer a complimentary premium copy of Starfield with the purchase of certain PC hardware configurations that feature both AMD CPUs and GPUs, thanks to AMD Rewards:
AMD Rewards provides benefits to certain AMD Ryzen 7000 Series CPUs, as demonstrated by AMD (Credit: AMD Rewards).
The AMD Ryzen™ 9 7950X3D 16-Core, 32-Thread Desktop Processor is available at a discounted price of $620, down from $690, allowing you to save $70. This processor serves as AMD's response to Intel's resurging 13th generation processor lineup. By leveraging the same groundbreaking technology that made the previous generation 5800X3D CPU so formidable, AMD aims to reclaim the gaming throne.
$700 at Best Buy $620 at Amazon $670 at Newegg
AMD Ryzen™ 9 7950X 16-Core, 32-Thread Unlocked Desktop Processor
Get the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X, the leading processor from AMD's Ryzen 7000 series, now at a discounted price of $589, saving you $110. This exceptional processor operates at a remarkable speed of up to 5.7Ghz, providing unparalleled efficiency. Additionally, it surpasses all others in multi-threading performance, securing its position as the top choice for a 16-core processor. Take advantage of this offer: purchase it for $589 on Amazon, $599 on Newegg, or $600 at Best Buy.
Introducing the powerful AMD Ryzen™ 9 7900X3D Desktop Processor, equipped with 12 cores and 24 threads. This processor is part of the Ryzen 7000 series, featuring the innovative X3D refresh technology. With 3D V-Cache integrated into one of its two 6-core CCUs, the Ryzen™ 9 7900X3D aims to replicate the impressive success achieved by the 5800X3D in the thriving Ryzen 7000 lineup.
$670 at Amazon $599.99 at Best Buy $599.99 at Newegg
AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D
The AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D is AMD's newest and most powerful CPU for gaming. With outstanding gaming performance that currently leads the charts, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D is a formidable contender that boasts its 3D V-Cache technology, making it an ideal choice for PC gamers.
Available at $439 on Amazon and $449 on Newegg.
The AMD Ryzen 7 7700X, priced at $319, is a remarkable octacore processor equipped with 16 threads. While it bears a resemblance to the fastest gaming CPU currently available, the Ryzen 7800X3D, it delivers comparable productivity performance. However, the Ryzen 7800X3D takes the lead in gaming due to its larger L3 cache. With a savings of $30, the AMD Ryzen 7 7700X provides an excellent option for users seeking high-performance processing power.
$349 at Amazon $319 at Newegg
AMD Ryzen 5 7600X
Save $45 on the AMD Ryzen 5 7600X, a great value for the latest generation of CPUs. Experience the benefits of PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 RAM, along with the added advantage of motherboard pins replacing CPU pins, reducing the risk of bending. Get it for just $200 on Amazon or $245 on Newegg.
Some of the AMD Ryzen 6000 & 7000 Series GPUs that benefit from the AMD Rewards offerings at qualified retailers:
ASRock Challenger D Radeon RX 6700 XT
Get $20 off the ASRock Challenger D Radeon RX 6700 XT, a great mid-range GPU for 1080P and 1440P gamers. It performs well in most modern games in FHD or 2K resolutions and offers competitive pricing compared to Nvidia's RTX 3060/3060TI options. While it supports Ray Tracing, it may not perform as efficiently as Nvidia's more advanced RTX 3000 and 4000 GPUs. Available for $310 on Newegg and $370 on Amazon.
The XFX Speedster SWFT 319 AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT CORE is a formidable graphics card from the AMD RX 6000 series. It excels even at 4k resolutions, thanks to its advanced features. Equipped with Ghost Thermal and XFX's Cooling Technology, the Speedster SWFT 319 guarantees optimal temperature control, even during intense gaming sessions. Additionally, it offers the option of ray tracing, allowing for breathtaking dynamic lighting and shadows in gameplay.
$520 at Amazon
ASRock Phantom Gaming Radeon RX 6950 XT 16GB
The ASRock Phantom Gaming RX 6950XT, priced at $600 at Newegg, is a powerful contender from last year that competes well with AMD's current RX 7000 series GPUs. While it offers limited Ray Tracing capabilities and has a high power draw, its discounted price in 2023 makes it an intriguing option for those seeking value.
The Gigabyte Radeon RX 7600 Gaming OC is a powerful graphics card, designed with Gigabyte's advanced WINDFORCE cooling technology. Equipped with three 80mm fans and five composite copper heat pipes, this triple-fan dual-slot card efficiently cools the GPU. It incorporates top-notch components such as high-quality metal chokes, 2oz copper PCB, lower ESR solid capacitors, and lower RDS(on) MOSFETs. At $260, with a $20 discount from its original price of $280, this card offers exceptional performance and durability.
$260 at Amazon
XFX Speedster MERC310 RX 7900 XT Black
Save $800 - The XFX Speedster MERC310 is a high-performance option that combines excellent value and efficient cooling. Its custom MERC Triple Fan Cooling Solution outperforms the standard SKU and effectively lowers temperatures with its integrated vapor chamber as part of the thermal solution.
Available for $800 on Amazon and $810 on Newegg.
Introducing the Sapphire AMD Radeon NITRO+ RX 7900 XTX Vapor-X
Now only $1100, down from $1130. Save $30!
The Sapphire Nitro+ is renowned for being the pinnacle of AMD 3rd-party GPU offerings in the market. With clock speeds that surpass every other competitor in the market, it sets a new standard for performance.
In addition, its superior vapor chamber design outperforms the conventional stock design by a significant margin. Although it comes at a higher price compared to other 7900XTX-based products, the Nitro+ delivers unparalleled performance and is well worth the investment.
$1100 at Newegg $1125 at Amazon
To find out more or learn how to redeem your Starfield voucher, check out our dedicated coverage on the AMD Starfield PC bundle to get started.
Starfield: What Is the Best Edition to Get?
The Standard Edition of Starfield comes at a price of $70, making it the most cost-effective option. However, considering that Game Pass offers full access and the possibility of upgrading to the Premium Edition, it seems to be the best choice for getting access to both editions. Having said that, if you are eligible for an upgrade and have been considering the AMD Ryzen 7000 series Processors or the newer 6000/7000 series GPUs, this is an excellent opportunity to make your purchase.
With prices for certain current-generation CPUs dropping to as low as $200 to $230, AMD's bundle appears to be the most attractive choice available. Not only does it offer a significant upgrade, but it also includes a complimentary copy of Starfield. This is particularly appealing for those who prefer owning a copy of the game instead of opting for the Xbox Game Pass subscription model. Additionally, depending on the processor or GPU chosen for your upgrade, you have the option to receive either the standard or premium edition of Starfield.
Starfield's Constellation Edition is being resold on third-party websites like eBay as sellers capitalize on the limited availability of the title's collectors edition preorders.
The Constellation Edition of Starfield is pricey, however, it appears to be sold out in most of the retailers we monitor. If you are determined to acquire the collector's edition version of Starfield, monitoring retailers is the sole means of obtaining it at the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP).
Starfield is set to launch on September 6th for Xbox Series X/S and Windows PC through the Xbox Store, Microsoft Store, and Steam. Premium Edition and Constellation Edition owners will have the opportunity to gain access as early as September 1st.
FAQ
Q: What Platforms Is Starfield Available At On Launch?
Release Date and Early Access Options for Starfield
Starfield, the highly anticipated game, is set to launch on September 6th for Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X, and PC. To get a head start on exploring the vast universe of Starfield, players have two options for early access. You can choose to dive into the game early by purchasing either the Premium Edition or the Constellation Edition. Additionally, if you already own a standard edition, you can opt for the Premium Edition Upgrade, which grants you the opportunity to begin your interstellar journey from September 1st. So mark your calendars and prepare to embark on an epic space odyssey with Starfield!
Q: How Many Hours Does Starfield Take To Complete?
Starfield's main quest alone is estimated to take between 30 and 40 hours to complete, surpassing the playtime of Bethesda's previous releases, The Elder Scrolls: Skyrim and Fallout 4, which both fall under the 30-hour mark. Notably, this duration does not encompass the numerous side quests typically present in Bethesda Game Studios' titles, which often offer substantial additional content beyond the main storyline.
