The Starfield Universe: Combat and Stealth Overhaul
The vast universe of Starfield allows players to confront not only extraterrestrial threats but also the game's combat AI and stealth mechanics. Nevertheless, modders have intervened, proposing solutions that could redefine the Starfield experience.
Experimental Combat and Stealth AI Overhauls
A modification named 'Experimental Combat and Stealth AI Overhauls' by NickMillion has gained significant attention recently. With more than 7,000 downloads and over 180 endorsements, this mod overhauls the combat experience in Starfield by applying various modifications to the game's AI.
This results in an improved companion system and a more instinctive combat and stealth dynamic. The enemy AI, often criticized by the gaming community, now features both an improved object permanence and the ability to alert allies upon finding a corpse or detecting suspicious activities. The modification ensures non-player characters (NPCs) are more decisive. They now cover quicker, engage more cohesively as a group and use advanced tactics, ranging from suppressive fire to seeking optimal firing positions.
An additional element in the modification, titled the 'Experimental Combat AI 2,' further refines these tactics and enhances the use of cover. This results in the NPCs becoming more strategic, often using grenades to flush out players.
Improving Stealth Gameplay
Stealth gameplay also receives a significant boost through the 'Experimental Stealth AI'. NPC behaviour becomes more realistic, increasing the difficulty, yet also enhancing the rewards for mastering stealth gameplay. The response from players on Nexus Mods has been overwhelmingly positive, with comments labeling it as one of the game's most crucial modifications.
Future for Enhanced Melee Combat and Official Modding Support
However, it's not only the AI that players find contentious. Starfield's melee combat is often described as 'lame' and 'underwhelming,' leading players who prefer melee builds to feel outclassed. They often express a longing for the satisfactory melee combat witnessed in earlier Bethesda titles.
But there's light at the end of the tunnel, Todd Howard, the mind behind many of Bethesda's iconic games, recently announced that Starfield would receive official modding support in 2024. This statement has sparked a beacon of hope within the community as they anticipate more innovative modifications that will further enhance the game. In the meantime, players can look forward to the enhancements to the combat AI and stealth mechanisms provided by this popular new modification.