The Unveiled Mystery Behind Starfield Screenshots

Highlights

Starfield introduces a photo mode that allows players to use their own screenshots as loading screens, adding a personal touch to the game experience.

Using in-game pictures as loading screens was first introduced in Fallout 76. However, this feature is particularly well-suited for Starfield's expansive and visually captivating galaxy. Despite loading screens being a frequent cause for complaint among Starfield enthusiasts, the option to create personalized loading screens could potentially address this concern and highlight the game's breathtaking visuals.

In Starfield, players not only capture memories but also utilize the game's photo mode to plan their next loading screens. The inclusion of photo modes in video games has grown significantly since Gran Turismo 4's basic photo mode in 2005. Games like Halo 3, The Last of Us, Marvel's Spider-Man, God of War, and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom have implemented more advanced and intuitive photo modes. However, Starfield by Bethesda raises the bar, introducing a photo mode that takes the concept to an entirely new level.

Reddit user qewman101 discovered that every time a player takes a picture in Starfield, it has the potential to become a loading screen image during gameplay. Similar to a Windows PC screensaver, the game randomly selects an image from the photo gallery each time a loading screen appears. This feature was previously introduced in another Bethesda game, Fallout 76, but it is better suited for Starfield's expansive and stunning galaxy. Fortunately, players can unlock photo mode early on, allowing them to promptly begin planning their next loading screen.

One of the frequent criticisms from Starfield fans revolves around the number of loading screens. On an Xbox Series X, loading screens typically last only 2-4 seconds. However, on an Xbox Series S or a PC without an SSD, loading screens are considerably lengthier. These screens pop up whenever a player boards a ship, enters orbit, travels to a planet, chooses a destination to land, enters a building, and even when transitioning between different sections of a building.

Having no loading screens would be the best scenario, however, if more players recognize the option to design their own personalized loading screens, it might help alleviate the issue. Starfield boasts one of the most visually stunning landscapes in modern video games, making it possible for the game to feature some of the most remarkable loading screens ever created.

Currently, Starfield can be accessed through early access and will be officially released on September 6 for PC and Xbox Series X/S.