Lessons from Starfield for Fallout 5 Development

People have different opinions on how successful Starfield is, but important lessons must be learned from it, especially for the future of Fallout 5. Starfield provides an opportunity to examine what Bethesda does well and where it struggles in creating large RPGs. While it's easy to point out flaws like long loading screens and repetitive elements from procedural generation, it’s important to also recognize the real innovations that Starfield introduced. Certain design choices could greatly improve Fallout 5 if applied wisely.

Starfield demonstrated a way to improve game progression and player freedom that could set a robust foundation for Fallout 5. Players shouldn't overlook these advancements, as they represent actual growth for Bethesda. By analysing what worked and what nearly worked in Starfield, developers can make Fallout 5 something special, rather than just another typical Bethesda RPG made on an outdated engine.

10 Resource Gathering In Bases Instead of Just Living There

In Fallout 5, gathering resources in settlements should move away from the focus on just basic needs, as seen in Fallout 4. Settlements were mainly safe spots requiring resources for maintenance, defence, and simple crafting. Conversely, Starfield allows outposts to produce resources that can be used in various places. This makes more sense for creating a lasting settlement, as it needs a reason to continue growing.

9 Shooting And Movement In Starfield Is Better Than Any Fallout Game

Starfield's combat system is a significant improvement for Bethesda, particularly regarding shooting and movement, surpassing any previous Fallout game. The gunplay feels smoother and more responsive, a welcome change from the clunky mechanics seen in earlier titles. The addition of a jetpack skill allows players to move creatively during combat, giving them an edge lacking in Fallout games.

8 Procedural Generation For Bigger Maps Is Good

Procedural generation can be divisive but offers a major benefit when creating expansive game worlds like in Starfield. Developers can produce vast environments that would be overwhelming to design manually. This method could also be valuable for Fallout 5, providing a diverse post-apocalyptic landscape with various biomes and landmarks, while still including crafted areas for storytelling.

7 Lockpicking As A Puzzle Instead of The Default Is More Fun

Starfield features a unique lockpicking system that stands out from the typical methods found in many RPGs, including Fallout 4. Instead of merely picking locks, players must solve a puzzle, making the challenge feel distinct.

6 Starfield Has Great Textures and Meshes for Weapons

Starfield has made significant progress in weapon customization compared to prior games. It features a detailed system that enables players to modify their weapons effectively.

5 Persuading As A Minigame Is More Fun Than A Dice Roll

Persuasion in Fallout often feels passive, as it relies on chance rolls rather than player skill. Starfield introduces a more interactive persuasion minigame, offering a significant improvement.

4 Romance And Marriage Is Done Better In Starfield

Starfield enhances romance and marriage aspects relative to Fallout 4. Players develop deeper connections through regular interactions and mission-based experiences.

3 Multiple Ways To Store Armor And Weapons In Outposts

Starfield enhances how players store items, introducing special armories for organizing gear more realistically, which Fallout 5 could replicate.

2 Production And Assembly Lines In Outposts Make More Sense For Settlements

Starfield's outpost system allows players to establish entire production lines, fostering a sense of progress missing from Fallout 4.

1 Respawning Enemies In Hideouts Should Be In Fallout Already

The respawning enemy feature in Starfield could greatly enhance the sense of danger and engagement in Fallout 5.