Starfield, the much-anticipated RPG from Bethesda, promises a universe filled with awe and mysteries. While the game's narrative and scope are certainly ambitious, it's the little details that are capturing the players' attention. Just like in other Bethesda titles, Starfield carries a particular "jankiness," providing gamers with unintentional yet entertaining situations. This article aims to delve into these quirks and explore how they enhance the overall gaming experience.
The Art of Stealing: A Physics Engine Exploit
Starfield allows players to embody a roguish character who may wish to steal from settlements. This is often a risky endeavor, given the presence of witnesses. However, the game's physics engine presents a clever workaround. Players can knock objects into a bucket using another object and then carry that bucket to a secluded area to claim their stolen goods. This gameplay mechanism may seem trivial, but it significantly affects how players engage with the game world, adding a layer of strategy to mundane actions.
A Box Over the Head: A Classic Tactic
Another tactic commonly seen across Bethesda games is placing a box over an NPC's head to prevent them from witnessing a theft. This universal truth in the Bethesda gaming universe humorously highlights how the game mechanics can be exploited in favor of the player. While not a revolutionary feature, it's a nostalgic nod to seasoned Bethesda gamers and serves as a tutorial of sorts for newcomers on how the game's mechanics can be manipulated.
Unintentional Comedy: When Bugs Become Features
Starfield is also replete with unintentional slapstick comedy, thanks to its physics and game mechanics. Examples of these include a Redditor posting about ragdoll physics leading to outlandishly funny scenarios, or an officer glitching in a manner that turns a bug into an emotional last stand. These bugs, while possibly detrimental in other titles, become part of the entertainment in Starfield, creating memorable moments that players often share online. They may even feel scripted, like segments of an absurdist comedy embedded in the game.
NPCs: More Than Just Exposition
The player encounters numerous NPCs in Starfield, most of whom offer lines of exposition. Yet, the game's tendency to generate unexpected behavior turns these characters into more than mere set dressing. Picking up random items like nail guns or shot glasses creates a unique interaction with the game world, rendering these NPCs as integral parts of the player's journey.