Bethesda Game Studios is taking to the stars with their upcoming titleStarfield, an original RPGset in a distant future capitalized by space exploration and colonization. While this game takes much inspiration fromThe Elder ScrollsandFalloutfranchises, it aims to set itself apart by offering players a compelling sci-fi experience. Doing so is challenging as this genre is something Bethesda has yet to explore to this degree. IfStarfieldhopes to meet Todd Howard’s vision of “Skyrimin space.”, it should utilize some common and engaging trends in sci-fi.
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Starfieldis undoubtedly a sci-fi game but seems to lack the touch of wonder and intrigue that comes with the genre.While the game takes inspiration from real-world science, it should deviate slightly from realism to embrace some fictitious yet awe-inspiring tropes. This approach will allowStarfieldto evoke the same amazement as other Bethesda titles. Here are some sci-fi tropes the game should utilize to turn it from a somewhat generic story in the cosmos into the thrilling and wondrous space adventure many fans envisioned.
5Noisy Space
A surprisingly common trope in the sci-fi genre is that space is a noisy place, which is contrary to proven science and human understanding. As many people may know, space is the diametrical opposite of what is seen in media as it is utterly and eerily quiet. Yet, that painful silence would not bode well for the sci-fi genre as everything would be much less thrilling and more anti-climatic. This fact is why many movies, shows, etc., ignore the science of sound in space altogether, which is somethingStarfieldshould also do.
Starfieldshould not only ignore the lack of sound in space but also make it noisy to sell home the sci-fi feel. Doing so will make space segments of the game feel more dynamic and enthralling, especially during high-intensity moments such as thrilling escapes or dogfights in the cosmos. Scenes like these should feature some astounding audio design that encapsulates the wonder frequently seen in sci-fi. Otherwise, the space segments inStarfieldwill be regrettably soundless and consequently somewhat dull.
4First Contact
Sci-fi media goes one of two ways when dealing with intelligent extraterrestrials: they either are abundant in the galaxy or are waiting in hiding for first contact. Arguably, the latter trope is far more intriguing than there being sapient alien life as far as the eye can see. It makes for an exciting yet suspenseful moment as humanity interacts with intelligent extraterrestrials for the first time, unknowing if they are friends or foes. This kind of moment is something that much sci-fi media benefits from, andStarfieldcan potentially do the same.
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From what Bethesda has revealed aboutStarfieldthus far,it seems that sapient alien life is non-existent or at least a rarity in the universe. There are plentiful otherworldly flora and fauna as seen in trailers, but that is about it as far as fans are concerned. This mystery of if there are intelligent extraterrestrials inStarfieldhas many fans captivated,and they would almost certainly be disappointed if the answer is no. However, if they were to make first contact with sapient alien life, it would solidify the game as a phenomenal sci-fi title.
3Cosmic Entities
An unusual but somewhat frequent trope in the sci-fi genre is the seemingly contradictory existence of cosmic entities, god-like beings that can influence the galaxy in monumental ways. Being what are essentially deities, these universe-influencing creatures appear to counteract the futuristic and technology-focused world of science fiction, but they work surprisingly well. Cosmic entities go to show how vast and mysterious the galaxy is, as they are unfathomable and powerful beings beyond the comprehension of humanity.
Starfieldcan use this trope extraordinarily well asthe main story will follow the Spacefarer and their work with Constellation, a faction of space explorers seeking to answer the question of “What’s out there?”. Most of the game will revolve around exploration and discovery, hopefully rewarding them with phenomenal findings. However, many expect such discoveries to be sapient alien life, ancient civilizations, etc., as cosmic entities are something that would astound fans and elevateStarfieldto a unique and noteworthy sci-fi game.
2Dangerous Discovery
The most common trope of sci-fi horror is a dangerous discovery, the uncovering of something capable of monumental disaster that should have been left alone. The struggle to deal with such a detrimental finding is often unfavorable, risky, and almost always ends with failure. But, regardless of what the dangerous discovery is, it enthralls audiences and leaves them on the edge of their seats. Many sci-fi franchises have benefitted significantly from this trope, and so canStarfieldif done correctly.
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Starfieldemphasizes the quest to unlock the mysteries of the universe, which has a lot of potential for sci-fi elements, including the dangerous discovery trope. The player and Constellation will be too preoccupied with their mission to leave no stone unturned that they may uncover something beyond their capabilities, a threat to the galaxy unlike any other. This trope would build upon the story ofStarfieldasthe game’s various oppositional organizationsmust work together against this danger lest everything meets its end.
1Ridiculous Technologies
Even the most famous and respectable sci-fi franchises fall into the trope of having ridiculous technologies. Such media features many devices and machines that are plausible and others that are purely the works of the imagination or at least seem like they should be. These ridiculous technologies are somewhat comedic, but they are a pivotal part of anything sci-fi as the genre is meant to push the boundaries and be whimsical. The same should apply toStarfield, especially since Bethesda is no stranger to some wackiness in their games.
So far,most of the devices and machines inStarfieldare pretty mundane, likely because Bethesda based them on real-world science. While this is impressive and revealing of the game studio’s dedication, implementing ridiculous technologies would enhance the sci-fi aspect of the game. Including things like laser swords,ambidextrous multifunctional weapons, a ship designed like a disc with prongs, etc., would giveStarfieldthe whimsy feel of many science fiction works; otherwise, the game will likely feel dull.
Starfieldis scheduled to release in 2023 on PC and Xbox Series X/S.
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