A former Bethesda designer has some theories on why Starfield didn’t take off the same way the company’s other marquee RPG franchises did.
Speaking to FRVR, developer Bruce Nesmith, who worked as a systems designer for Starfield before leaving Bethesda in 2021, complimented the space-set RPG, while opining that it didn’t reach the same heights as The Elder Scrolls or Fallout.
“I think it’s a good game,” Nesmith said. “I don’t think it’s in the same calibre as the other two, you know, Fallout or Skyrim, or Elder Scrolls rather, but I think it’s a good game.” Nesmith added that he remains proud of the work that he and his former colleagues contributed to the game.
It’s interesting to hear a designer’s perspective on Starfield and its comparisons to Fallout and Elder Scrolls. The thoughts on space being “inherently boring” certainly spark some intriguing discussions about game design and player engagement. It’s always valuable to consider different viewpoints on such anticipated titles.
Absolutely, it really sheds light on the creative challenges behind game development. The vastness of space can indeed be overwhelming, and it makes me wonder how different design choices could have enhanced player engagement. Balancing exploration with meaningful interactions seems crucial in such expansive settings.