Starfield Release Date TBD, Bethesda Vows "Epic Experience"

Starfield's 2023 debut has already sparked anticipation for a sequel. While Bethesda remains tight-lipped, a former developer offers intriguing insights. Let's explore their comments and what a potential Starfield 2 might entail.

Starfield 2: "One Hell of a Game," Claims Ex-Bethesda Dev

A Strong Foundation for a Stellar Sequel

Former Bethesda lead designer, Bruce Nesmith, a key figure behind Skyrim and Oblivion, boldly predicts a spectacular Starfield 2. Having left Bethesda in September 2021, Nesmith believes the groundwork laid by the original Starfield positions the sequel for significant improvements. He highlights the iterative development process seen in previous Bethesda franchises, suggesting Starfield 2 will build upon its predecessor's strengths while addressing shortcomings.

In a recent interview with VideoGamer, Nesmith emphasized the advantages of sequel development, drawing parallels to the evolution of Skyrim from Oblivion, and Oblivion from Morrowind. He notes that while Starfield was impressive, it involved building many systems and technologies from scratch.

"I'm looking forward to Starfield 2," Nesmith stated. "I think it's going to be one hell of a game because it will address many of the points people have raised—things like, 'We're almost there, but it's missing a little bit.' It can leverage the existing foundation, adding new content and resolving existing issues."

Nesmith compared this potential to franchises like Mass Effect and Assassin's Creed, series that blossomed into iconic titles through refined sequels. "Often, it takes a second or third iteration to truly enrich the experience," he explained.

A Long Wait Ahead: Starfield 2's Release Date

Starfield received mixed reviews, with criticism focusing on pacing and content. However, Bethesda's commitment to Starfield as a core franchise alongside The Elder Scrolls and Fallout is evident. Bethesda's Director, Todd Howard, confirmed plans for annual story expansions for "hopefully a very long time" in a June interview with YouTuber MrMattyPlays.

Howard stressed Bethesda's dedication to meticulous game development and franchise management to maintain high standards. "We want to get it right and ensure that every addition to a franchise—Elder Scrolls, Fallout, or now Starfield—creates meaningful experiences for fans," Howard stated.

Bethesda's history of lengthy development cycles is well-documented. The Elder Scrolls VI, in pre-production since 2018, remains in "early development," according to Bethesda's head of publishing, Pete Hines. Howard confirmed to IGN that Fallout 5 will follow The Elder Scrolls VI. This timeline, coupled with Phil Spencer's 2023 statement suggesting The Elder Scrolls VI is "at least five years out," points to a potential Starfield 2 release no earlier than the mid-2030s.

While Starfield 2 remains hypothetical, Howard's commitment to the franchise is reassuring. The recent release of Shattered Space DLC on September 30th addresses some initial concerns, and further DLC is planned. Until then, fans can anticipate continued support for Starfield while patiently awaiting the potential arrival of its sequel.