Josh Gordon

Review: Shattered Space - Starfield Rating: 5 stars Shattered Space, the first major expansion for Starfield, offers an exhilarating deep-space adventure that expands upon the already vast universe created by Bethesda. The expansion feels like a breath of fresh air, introducing new layers of exploration, storytelling, and intense space combat that fans of the base game will surely appreciate. Storyline: Engrossing and Expansive The plot of Shattered Space builds upon Starfield's core themes of exploration and discovery, plunging players into the depths of a cosmic mystery. Without giving too much away, it’s a narrative-driven expansion that ups the stakes significantly. The storytelling is top-notch, filled with intrigue and moments that make you question everything you thought you knew about the universe. There's a feeling of real consequence here, and the player’s choices feel more meaningful than ever. Expect branching dialogues, tough decisions, and plenty of surprises. Exploration: A Galaxy of New Wonders One of Starfield's standout features has always been its exploration, and Shattered Space takes it to the next level. The new systems, planets, and starbases are visually stunning, each with its own distinct environments and hidden lore to uncover. The variety in environments—ranging from uncharted ice worlds to derelict space stations—keeps the player engaged, offering fresh sights at every turn. You’ll encounter new alien species, lost civilizations, and forgotten technologies that tie seamlessly into Starfield’s lore. Gameplay and Combat: Refined and More Intense The addition of new combat mechanics makes Shattered Space feel more dynamic than the base game. Space battles are fast-paced and intense, requiring you to think strategically as you engage fleets of enemy ships. The new weapons and ship modifications offer more ways to customize your combat experience, adding layers of strategy to both on-foot and ship combat. Ground missions, too, have been reworked to include new enemies and more challenging AI, making every encounter feel more rewarding. Visuals and Audio: Cosmic Brilliance Visually, Shattered Space is breathtaking. The art direction feels more polished, with improved lighting effects and detailed environments that make space exploration feel more immersive. Sound design, especially during space battles, is equally impressive. The hauntingly atmospheric soundtrack elevates the tension in key moments, while the voice acting remains top-tier, bringing emotional depth to the new characters you meet along the way. Verdict: A Stellar Expansion Shattered Space builds on everything that made Starfield great, while introducing new elements that push the game’s boundaries even further. The expansion nails the sense of wonder that comes with exploring uncharted territories, while offering a gripping narrative and exciting gameplay improvements. Whether you're returning to Starfield or experiencing the expansion as part of a larger adventure, Shattered Space is a must-play for any fan of space RPGs. Bethesda has outdone themselves, and it leaves us eagerly anticipating what’s next in the galaxy they’ve created.