After what feels like a very long period of hush around updates, improvements, and more DLC for Starfield, Bethesda veteran Tim Lamb has just given fans of the game something to get excited about. The underwhelming space RPG appears to have some big changes and new systems on the way thanks to some free updates, including ones that’ll make space travel and exploration “more rewarding.” And yes, that second DLC is still in the works, despite the radio silence.
I enjoyed Starfield. There, I said it. However, did it live up to the expectations I’d set for it, given Bethesda’s track record of creating some of the best RPGs of all time? Absolutely not. The major gaps in its space-faring fantasy, including a galaxy filled with barren planets and a rather predictable main storyline, have been well documented by now. Yet, I still found moments of fun, surprise, and wonder in Starfield. While I understand the perspective of those that want Bethesda to rush toward The Elder Scrolls 6 or Fallout 5, I find myself hoping for improvements and a redemption arc so that Starfield isn’t left as the disappointing outcast it currently is.
Space gameplay has long been a major concern for players like me. Exploring ships and space stations on foot, often in low gravity, brings a certain charm, yet there’s little incentive to actually engage in flying my spaceship. The few instances where spaceship battles are required feel forced and lack depth. But it seems this is poised to change in the near future.
Tim Lamb recently hinted at exciting developments during a Bethesda Developer Spotlight video. “I’m really excited for players to see what the team’s been working on,” Lamb shared. “We have some cool stuff coming, including free updates and features the players have been asking for, as well as a new DLC story. I can’t go into all the details just yet, but I will say part of the team has been focused on space gameplay to make your travels there more rewarding. We’re also adding some new game systems and a few other smaller delights.”
This announcement is certainly a welcome relief for many. Significant upgrades and updates have been scarce for Starfield lately, but it sounds like a flurry of new systems and improvements could arrive soon. Regarding how Bethesda plans to enhance space travel and gameplay, details remain under wraps, but an engaging way to traverse between planets and systems is desperately needed. If a new method of exploration can encourage players to spend more time piloting their ships rather than solely exploring on foot, it could genuinely transform the gameplay experience.
As for the much-anticipated DLC, I had hoped for its arrival this year. However, since it wasn’t revealed during Xbox’s presence at Gamescom, I suspect we might not see it until 2026. Rumors circulating in the gaming community already suggest this timeline, particularly with the DLC possibly aligning with a PS5 port of Starfield.
While we await further details on these substantial changes, players looking to dive back into Bethesda’s sprawling galaxy might want to check out our guide to the best Starfield mods. And for those who feel Starfield may not be for them, there’s a plethora of fantastic space games to explore.
What enhancements or changes would you like to see in the upcoming Starfield updates? Let us know over in our Discord server, or join the discussions with other community members about all your favorite PC games.