The gaming world is no stranger to controversy, and the recent release of Starfield has ignited a firestorm of debates, with some proclaiming it as the next gaming masterpiece while others deride it as a colossal disappointment. In this article, we’ll delve into the raw numbers and explore the intriguing landscape of Bethesda games to understand why Starfield, a game set in the vastness of space, has become the most divisive title in the company’s history.
Starfield’s Surprising Numbers
Starfield, the brainchild of Bethesda Game Studios, has garnered immense attention since its release, and not all of it positive.
According to data from Steam Database, a platform that aggregates player statistics and reviews, Starfield has officially become the lowest-rated Bethesda game ever on the platform, even falling below the notorious Fallout 76.
- Initially, 71% of players on Steam are currently enjoying the game. This statistic is particularly bewildering when you consider the tumultuous history of Fallout 76, a game that was universally panned upon its release.
- It underwent extensive improvements, free expansions, and patches, eventually clawing its way to a lukewarm 76% rating on Steam.
So, how did Starfield, a brand-new space exploration adventure, manage to plummet to such depths in just a month after release?
Starfield’s Metacritic and Steam Rating
It’s worth noting that while Steam reviews are based on players who have purchased the game, Metacritic reviews include input from professional game critics.
- Starfield’s Metacritic rating stands at 84 for Xbox and 86 for PC, indicating an overall positive reception. However, this rating has gradually declined from its initial 87, signaling a shift in sentiment over time.
- In stark contrast, Fallout 76 continues to languish with a dismal Metacritic score of 49.
The Curious Downward Spiral
To put Starfield‘s reception in perspective, let’s examine the trajectory of Bethesda’s recent releases. Skyrim, one of the highest-selling games of all time, still enjoys a remarkable 96% positive rating on Steam, with over 300,000 positive reviews.
As we move along the timeline, Fallout 4 didn’t fare much better than Fallout 76, receiving mixed reviews from fans and critics alike. Starfield, despite its hype, seems to continue this pattern of declining ratings.
Toxic Positivity Phenomenon
One cannot ignore the phenomenon of toxic positivity, where a section of gamers becomes vehemently defensive of the games they enjoy. Any criticism, no matter how constructive, is met with hostility. This mindset can be detrimental to the gaming community, as it stifles healthy discussions about a game’s strengths and weaknesses.
Not even on par with what Ratchet and Clank did. That loaded entire levels instantly and if I remember correctly Titanfall 2 did this years ago. Im sorry but Starfield isn’t a good game. And before I’m accused of being a fanboy, I own all three current systems and love them all!
— Johnny Silverhand (@Mike90034540) September 30, 2023
https://twitter.com/Kaizen626/status/1708057784699212094
- Starfield‘s tumultuous journey from a highly anticipated release to the lowest-rated Bethesda game on Steam has been nothing short of a rollercoaster ride.
- While some players have found enjoyment in its unique space adventure, many have expressed disappointment in its fragmented gameplay and lackluster exploration. As Bethesda strives to address these concerns and modders work to enhance the experience, the fate of Starfield remains uncertain.
Don't you want to rate it yourself buddy? Why don't ask for a job at IGN 🤡?
It is funny how you guys are still salty because of his review, many outlets scored Starfield with a 7 or less, and Steam user reviews are very similar to Dan's score, maybe you are the one wrong 🤷♂️. pic.twitter.com/aPZE02ac5K
— Heaven or Hell (@HellkiteFiend) September 30, 2023
In the grand scheme of things, the decline in the quality of Bethesda’s games is a cause for concern among long-time fans. With the looming release of Elder Scrolls 6, gamers are left wondering whether Bethesda can recapture the magic that once made their titles legendary. Only time will tell if Starfield‘s divisive reception is a sign of things to come or a mere bump in the road for the renowned game developer.
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