Starfield, Bethesda Softworks' 2023 RPG, hasn't become the blockbuster hit many anticipated. Even the release of its story expansion hasn't fully captivated fans. Todd Howard now believes the game's reception might be linked to the release strategy.
Phil Spencer, head of Microsoft Gaming, revealed that Howard questions the decision to release updates with new mechanics and items so frequently. Specifically, Howard is concerned that the early release of the buggy space travel update negatively impacted the perception of Starfield: Shattered Space. He suggests that this feature should have been part of the September DLC, making the add-on feel less sparse.
Spencer stated: “It seems some feedback on the expansion was like, ‘we want more new mechanics.’ And [Todd Howard] is like, ‘Maybe we should have waited before releasing the space travel update?’”
Starfield was released on September 6th, 2023, for PC and Xbox Series X/S. Shattered Space launched on September 30th, 2024. Bethesda is reportedly already working on Starborn, the second story DLC.
