Starfield, a well-known game developed by Bethesda, has recently faced a considerable amount of criticism regarding the speed of its updates, especially when compared to fan-made mods.
The response to player's feedback on the delay in updates has emerged from a Bethesda community manager. He detailed why the process of release takes longer than expected.
During its early release, the game had received mixed reviews. Since then, the game's popularity declined, marked by predominantly negative user’s reviews on the gaming platform Steam.
The lack of updates since launch to attend to its various bugs and other player-reported issues added fuel to the fire. Although the recent patch launched by Starfield seems promising, it is currently only available in Steam Beta.
The criticism expanded when modders began releasing their own 'patches.' These provided bug fixes and other adjustments, resulting in some gamers questioning why official updates by Bethesda were slower in comparison.
This concern led to an explanation by the developer on the major aspects of official game updates and why they inherently require more time.
Bethesda community manager, Robert O’Neill, shed light on why game developers can take up to four months to address issues that modders have already fixed.
His explanation gave a surprising insight into the complex process behind updating a game like Starfield.
O'Neill pointed out that official fixes and content additions have to pass through lengthy certification and localization processes, especially for consoles.
It is why the beta version is only available for Steam users. He further explained that changes are best bundled into larger consolidated updates, for better build testing when the new code is assembled together.
Although the delay in updates might frustrate fans, these explanations provided by O’Neill can be enlightening.
Software changes and their testing are elaborate processes. Often, fixing one bug can lead to another issue, and therefore, testing changes collectively ensure developers can evaluate the changes' impact on one another all at once.
Beyond the certification process, the standards for an official update are generally much higher than those for a mod.
If a mod chosen by a player for download causes problems, the consequences are different from when a flaw appears in an update pushed out by developers impacting all players.
By setting standards high for official updates, developers aim at minimizing issues that players might face.
Although Starfield updates might be slower than anticipated, the measures taken ensure a smooth gaming experience for the players.
O’Neill assures players that consistent updates are expected throughout the coming year, along with the much-anticipated release of the 'Shattered Space expansion.'
This expansion is set to bring new possibilities and adventures for Starfield players around the globe.
In the complex world of gaming development where numerous elements need careful attention, game updates are far from a rudimentary process.
Many components go into the final product that hits the screen. This account by the community manager of Bethesda grants gamers a small glimpse into that world.
Thus, the delay in game updates is not due to ignorance or laziness, but due to the desire for perfection and smooth user experience.
A developer’s goal is to ensure that the changes do not hamper the gaming experience but instead enhance it. Therefore, they must be cautious and precise, which naturally requires more time.
Players are the heart of every game, and their feedback is vital in shaping the gaming experience.
Therefore, institutions like Bethesda are open to addressing concerns as they strive to provide the gamers with a satisfying and immersive experience.
It all boils down to a well-known saying 'good things take time'.
A bit of patience from the gaming community will give the developers the time they need to lay out essential improvements resulting in delivering a better game.
Moving forward, there is much to be excited about Starfield, particularly looking to the promise of more consistent updates and content additions in the coming year.
With greater understanding of the reasons behind such delays, gamers may be more understanding and patient, enjoying the game as it stands and looking forward to what the future holds for Starfield.