Beyond the Cosmos – Starfield May Update Detailed

Starfield is a cornerstone game for the Xbox platform. It is the first major exclusive from Bethesda Game Studios following the acquisition, utilizing all resources Microsoft could offer. The end result was an experience that many enjoyed but specific issues were pointed out.

The frame rate on console was capped at 30FPS, planet exploration felt slow and finding out where to go was tricky for some. As of this writing, an update is set for a May launch to address all these issues and more.

Charting the Map – Quality of Life Improvements

Map/Exploration

One of the major criticisms for Starfield was navigation and knowing where to go. Once the May Update goes live, players will be able to see major landmarks. You could even view the area you are on with a pulled-out perspective. This even includes the thousands of planets players can venture across.

And while it will not be included in the May Update, vehicles are being added into the game for planet exploration, that being a major fan request since launch.

Accessibility Options

At the cost of experience gained, players can customize various aspects of the gameplay experience. You to be able to carry tons of weapons and gear? Set the storage limit to max.

You want to have easier ship combat? Or make it even harder? Go nuts!

Many recent games have explored options like this and how Starfield is implementing these features look to be well balanced. Having it tied with how much experience you can gain gives the player a great sense of flexibility. It can be as easy, or as challenging, as they want it to be.

Starfield Bug Fixes and More

The full list of patch notes can be found on the Starfield website, breaking down graphical improvements, bug fixes and more.

Boosting the Engine – Performance Mode Added for Xbox Series X

A major criticism I have for Microsoft and the Xbox division, which I will be touching on in a future editorial, is the console not being a priority anymore. But when they actually do invest in the console, not just the platform at large, I have to give them their roses.

With Starfield, at launch the game ran at a very smooth 30FPS target but lacked Performance Mode options for those that wanted that. A major addition for the May Update for Starfield is that for Xbox Series X owners, they can finally enjoy the title at 40 and 60FPS.

Bethesda broke down this implementation with the following comment;

• Frame Rate Target: You can now choose between 30, 40, 60 or an Uncapped frame rate on VRR displays. If you do not have a VRR display running 120hz, you will still be able to select from 30 or 60. Screen tearing may occur at times when selecting 60 on a non-VRR display.
• Prioritize: You can now prioritize between Visuals and Performance while trying to maintain the frame rate target. If you’re choosing a frame rate target of 60 or above, we recommend changing this to Performance. Prioritizing Visuals keeps the highest resolution while maintaining full detail for special effects, lighting, and crowds. Prioritizing Performance lowers internal resolution and detail for special effects, lighting, and crowds. Both modes may adjust internal resolution dynamically when scenes or action get heavier as well. When switching between modes, you will see the lighting change briefly as the system catches up to the new mode.

Not only will players be able to have 40FPS and 60FPS support, but they can explore PC-like settings to tailor the experience to their liking.

Closing Thoughts on the Upcoming Starfield Update

While the ‘big’ Expansion is still a way out, slated for Fall 2024, this update is huge for the title. Not only are quality of life additions many requested are being added to the experience, but a focus on making the title better on console is something I find very impressive.

Seeing Microsoft go above and beyond getting their titles into other ecosystems, expanding the platform overall, it’s genuinely refreshing seeing a Microsoft product be the best on their own platform.

Will you sail the stars? Let us know in the comments below!