Bethesda is shaking off its creative wings with its first new universe in a quarter century. The stunning open world of Starfield spans galaxies and promises to be jam-packed and full of life and adventure. Starfield will hopefully be the big redeemer for the failures of Fallout 76. It could return Bethesda to its previous status in the RPG genre. It’s hard not to pull similarities to No Man’s Sky after seeing the trailer in the Xbox Games Showcase. However, will Starfield also have co-op multiplayer?
Does Starfield have co-op multiplayer?
No, Starfield does not have co-op or any multiplayer. Bethesda says they have no plans to add co-op to Starfield. In addition, the listing on Steam indicates that Starfield is only single-player, at least at launch. This doesn’t mean that it won’t be implemented later on. However, as it stands, it’ll be down to the modders to get it online.
Does Starfield Have a Multiplayer Mod?
Since its official launch, 2,434 mods have already been published. Unfortunately, one of those is not a multiplayer mod, but we suspect it’ll happen soon.
Bethesda has entered the online multiplayer world with Fallout 76 and The Elder Scrolls Online. The former flopped as hard as a Bethesda game ever has, so it is understandable for the studio to return to what they do best. The Elder Scrolls Online has been widely successful. This only proves that, if done correctly, they can make Starfield a positive co-op multiplayer experience.
Starfield looks to be the most extensive Bethesda universe yet, spanning thousands of planets, environments, and adventures. Although people always like the chance to play online with friends, it isn’t always necessary, especially when the core gameplay offers so much. Of course, an RPG can be made better with friends, such as with Diablo 4, but not always. With the Fallout and Elder Scrolls series, I found the fact that every game is my own and every universe is of my own molding makes the gameplay more immersive. Extra players and co-op campaigns didn’t feel like they are called for when the deep and intricate storylines keep me so invested.
There is no doubt that with the avid Bethesda modding community, there will be a multiplayer mod out before you can snap your fingers. However, so far, Bethesda is staying away from co-op multiplayer and just focusing on Starfield being a rich and satisfying single player experience.
Author’s Note: I wrote this guide while playing Starfield on PC and Xbox Series S.
Published: Sep 6, 2023 10:50 am