Starfield's Release Unknown, Promises Epic Quality

Starfield’s 2023 debut has already sparked anticipation for a sequel. While Bethesda remains tight-lipped, a former developer offers intriguing insights. Discover what’s been revealed about Starfield 2 and its potential.

Starfield 2: "One Hell of a Game," Says Ex-Bethesda Developer

A Strong Foundation for a Stellar Sequel

Former Bethesda lead designer, Bruce Nesmith, a key figure behind Skyrim and Oblivion, boldly predicts a phenomenal Starfield 2. Nesmith, who departed Bethesda in September 2021, believes the first game’s groundwork will significantly streamline sequel development, potentially surpassing the original.

In a recent interview with VideoGamer, Nesmith highlighted the iterative nature of Bethesda’s RPG franchises, citing the progression from Morrowind to Oblivion to Skyrim. He emphasized that while Starfield was ambitious ("starting from the ground up"), a sequel can build upon its existing systems and address player feedback.

"I’m looking forward to Starfield 2. I think it’s going to be one hell of a game because it’s going to address a lot of the things people are saying," Nesmith stated. "It will leverage the existing foundation, adding new content and resolving existing issues."

He drew parallels to successful franchises like Mass Effect and Assassin’s Creed, which refined their initial concepts across multiple installments. Nesmith noted that often, "a second or third version… really enriches everything."

Starfield 2: A Long-Term Horizon

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

Howard stressed Bethesda's dedication to meticulous game development and franchise management to maintain high standards. "We want to get it right… ensuring that everything we do… becomes a meaningful moment," he explained.

Bethesda’s history reveals lengthy development cycles. The Elder Scrolls VI, in pre-production since 2018, remains in "early development," according to Bethesda’s head of publishing, Pete Hines. Howard subsequently confirmed Fallout 5 as the next project following Elder Scrolls VI.

Considering Phil Spencer's 2023 statement that Elder Scrolls VI is "at least five years out," a 2026 release at the earliest seems plausible. A similar development timeline for Fallout 5 suggests a Starfield sequel unlikely before the mid-2030s.

While Starfield 2 remains speculative, Howard’s commitment to the franchise is reassuring. The recent release of Shattered Space DLC addresses some initial concerns, with more DLC planned. Fans can anticipate continued support for Starfield while patiently awaiting the potential arrival of its sequel.