Starfield's 2023 launch has already sparked anticipation for a sequel. While Bethesda remains tight-lipped, a former developer offers insight into what a potential Starfield 2 could offer.
Starfield 2: An Ex-Bethesda Dev's Bold Prediction
A former lead designer at Bethesda, Bruce Nesmith, predicts a stellar sequel. Nesmith, a key figure in the creation of Skyrim and Oblivion, believes Starfield 2 will be "one hell of a game." Having left Bethesda in September 2021, his comments suggest the groundwork is laid for a significant improvement over the original. He points to the iterative development of previous Bethesda franchises, highlighting how sequels built upon and surpassed their predecessors.
Nesmith emphasizes the advantages of building on an existing foundation, contrasting Starfield's initial development – which involved creating new systems and technologies from scratch – with the potential for smoother development in a sequel. He anticipates Starfield 2 will address player feedback and incorporate substantial new content while refining existing mechanics. He draws parallels to franchises like Mass Effect and Assassin's Creed, where sequels significantly enhanced the original game's strengths.
A Long Wait for Starfield 2: A Decade or More?
Starfield's initial reception was mixed, with some criticism directed at pacing and content. However, Bethesda's commitment to the franchise is clear, with plans for annual story expansions for "a very long time," according to Director Todd Howard. This commitment to quality and careful development, however, suggests a lengthy wait for a sequel.
Bethesda's development cycles are notoriously long. The Elder Scrolls VI, in pre-production since 2018, remains in early development. Fallout 5 is slated to follow The Elder Scrolls VI. Considering Phil Spencer's 2023 statement that The Elder Scrolls VI is at least five years away, and assuming a similar timeline for Fallout 5, a Starfield 2 release might not occur until the mid-2030s.
The Future of Starfield: DLC and Beyond
While Starfield 2 remains a distant prospect, Bethesda's commitment to the franchise extends to ongoing DLC development. The recent release of Shattered Space addresses some player concerns, and more DLC is planned. For now, fans can look forward to continued expansion of the Starfield universe through DLC, while patiently awaiting the eventual arrival of a potential sequel.
