Explore the intricacies of Starfield’s New Game Plus mode. Bethesda challenges convention, but does it enhance replayability?
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One of the most intriguing discussions surrounding Bethesda’s latest title, Starfield, revolves around its replayability.
Bethesda is not known for its New Game Plus modes, so how does it fare in its ambitious space epic?
Historical Hesitance Meets New Approach
Historically, Bethesda has been hesitant to incorporate New Game Plus modes in their games, evident in classics like Fallout and The Elder Scrolls.
However, Starfield challenges this status quo.
The game adopts a unique approach, not just by including a New Game Plus mode but by molding it to align with the grandeur of its universe and gameplay mechanics.
While Starfield refrains from using the term “New Game Plus” in its traditional sense—opting for its personalized naming conventions—we will adhere to the widely recognized term for clarity.
Embarking on a New Journey
Upon completing the final mission, players choose to continue exploring the expansive universe or reset the game.
Choosing the latter thrusts players into the New Game Plus mode, but with distinct variations.
What Remains: Players maintain their XP, skills, and powers from the initial gameplay. Additionally, they receive the Starborn Spacesuit Astra and the Starborn Guardian ship, each laden with exclusive benefits.
The Astra Spacesuit offers unparalleled damage and environmental protection, while the Guardian ship boasts exceptional cargo and armament capacities, although customization is not an option.
What is Lost: Almost everything else. It all resets from your wealth, the fleet of ships, and your arsenal to your status with the game’s factions and companions.
Pros and Cons: A Delicate Balance
The appeal of starting anew lies in experiencing the game from a fresh perspective.
Players can revisit Starfield’s side missions, uncover new artifacts and powers, and explore New Game Plus exclusive quests concealed in the initial play.
Moreover, bypassing the main storyline and diving directly into these hidden treasures offers a unique approach to the game.
However, there is a downside. With a game focused on exploration and an intricate narrative, wiping away progress feels counterproductive.
Given that enemies are not scaled in the New Game Plus mode and that the benefits gained do not justify the reset, many suggest maximizing the initial playthrough before delving into this mode.
A Step Forward or a Misstep?
The consensus remains divided. While the New Game Plus mode offers a fresh perspective and opportunities to forge new narratives, losing assets and progress is a significant setback.
Nevertheless, the heart of Starfield’s endgame lies many gameplay hours ahead, varying based on individual playing styles.
For now, early-access players seem unperturbed by these aspects.
With hundreds of thousands already immersed in this new Xbox exclusive on Steam, only time will tell whether Starfield’s gamble on replayability proves to be a masterstroke or a miscalculation.
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