As players delve deeper into the universe of Starfield, they may be intrigued by the New Game Plus feature that brings a slew of changes to the game's main campaign. A compelling aspect of this feature is the option to skip the main quest entirely. Given that this action has significant ramifications on gameplay, this article aims to provide a detailed discussion on what happens when you choose to skip the main quest in Starfield.
Should You Skip the Main Quest?
The choice of skipping the main quest is available only when you're in a New Game Plus playthrough. To reach this stage, you would have to consult our guide on initiating a New Game Plus run, which includes details on transferred assets and additional features you'll gain access to.
Pros and Cons
Upon reaching a certain point in the New Game Plus run, you encounter a crucial decision point with Sarah:
- Repeat Main Quest: Allows you to go through the original campaign, albeit with some new features like Starborn-related dialogue options. You'll also gain the chance to save all companions.
- Skip Main Quest: This option diverts you to a drastically different narrative. However, you may lose opportunities for building companion affinity and acquiring certain side quests.
Artifact and Power Acquisition
Skipping the main quest brings about a shift in how artifacts are acquired. Vladimir provides all the artifact locations in your quest log, under a mission called "Among the Stars."
Unlockable Powers
Powers you had previously acquired will carry over into the New Game Plus run. Vladimir will sporadically inform you of temple locations, giving you the opportunity to obtain upgraded power versions like "Parallel Self II" or "Elemental Pull II."
Companion Recruitment
Choosing to skip the main quest alters the way companions are recruited. Key points include:
- Sarah and Vasco: These characters are located in The Lodge and can be recruited without issue.
- Barrett, Lin, and Heller: Barrett is in Vectera and doesn't require rescuing. Lin and Heller are present but might be non-interactable due to bugs.
- Sam and Andreja: These characters appear in The Lodge after all artifacts are collected.
Starborn Interactions
Skipping the main quest changes key events and interactions. For example, the attack on The Lodge does not happen, and meetings with Starborn characters occur under different circumstances.
Final Mission
The Revelation final mission largely remains the same. However, different Starborn suits with varying stats and mods may become available in subsequent New Game Plus runs.
Conclusion
The choice to skip the main quest in Starfield's New Game Plus mode brings along a host of changes, each with its pros and cons. Whether you opt to dive back into the original narrative or seek a new path, the choice ultimately resides with you. This guide has aimed to provide you with detailed insights to help you make an informed decision.