The Reception of Starfield

Starfield, the highly anticipated space exploration game from Bethesda, has seemingly faded from the gaming spotlight since its release. Critics, including RPS's Alice Bee, have described the game as feeling 'small, cold, and unlived in,' and it's clear that many players share a similar sentiment.

The Darker Vision

But what if I told you that the game originally had plans for a much darker, bloodier aesthetic? In a recent interview on the Kiwi Talkz podcast, Dennis Mejillones—a former senior artist at Bethesda—revealed that the development team considered implementing a gore and dismemberment system akin to what we’ve seen in other titles like Fallout 4.

The idea was to include gruesome features like decapitations, but ultimately, these plans were scrapped.

Technical Limitations

Mejillones explained that the decision was primarily influenced by 'technical limitations,' particularly the challenges related to the various suits players would wear, and how the armor would interact with graphic content like dismemberment. The complexity of this system created a 'big rat's nest' of complications, making it difficult to integrate without significant playability issues.

Character Creation Changes

During development, the character creation process underwent extensive changes, further complicating the potential for a gore-filled experience.

Mejillones highlighted the contrast in themes between Starfield and Fallout—where the latter embraced a satirical tone with features like the Bloody Mess perk that turned enemies into gooey remains. Starfield, on the other hand, aimed for a more grounded and realistic narrative inspired by shows like The Expanse and Star Trek.

What Could Have Been?

While a more violent approach certainly wouldn't solve the deeper issues with pacing and engagement within Starfield, Mejillones mused that it might have made the experience a tad more exciting. Imagine having the option to cleave an enemy in half with a futuristic weapon or see vibrant splashes of color across the lackluster environments.

That, he insists, could have lightened the heavy grey palette of the game.

Final Thoughts

As we continue to analyze Starfield's reception, it's hard not to wonder how different the game might have been with a bolder creative direction. Gamers love options, and a few decapitated foes might have added a much-needed adrenaline rush to the vast emptiness of space!

In conclusion, as we await future expansions or possible sequels from Bethesda, let’s ponder: would a touch of gore have rescued Starfield from its current reputation? One thing is certain—there's plenty to discuss about what could have been!