Starfield, Bethesda’s space RPG, is poised for a significant resurgence with a major update and new DLC planned for 2026. Since its release, fans have hoped for a “Starfield 2.0” style overhaul similar to what Cyberpunk 2077 underwent, addressing many of the game’s initial criticisms. Bethesda has remained relatively quiet throughout 2025, only releasing minor updates and community-made content like the Watchtower creation. However, recent leaks and official teasers suggest that a large-scale update is in development, aiming to improve core gameplay aspects, particularly space travel, and coincide with the game’s long-rumored PS5 release.
The upcoming update is expected to overhaul space travel, introducing a “cruise travel” mechanic that allows players to manually control faster-than-light journeys between planets without enduring long load screens. This feature could include exciting random encounters during travel, such as pirate attacks, adding depth and immersion to the experience. Bethesda’s lead creative producer Tim Lamb hinted at new game systems and quality-of-life improvements that players have been requesting, signaling a significant evolution in how the game feels and plays.
Alongside these gameplay improvements, Bethesda plans to release a second expansion DLC, tentatively titled “Taran Armada.” The name and teaser imagery suggest a storyline involving Earth’s destruction and a possible return or conflict involving survivors or factions from Earth. Fans hope this DLC will deliver more handcrafted content, enhanced exploration, and a richer narrative experience, addressing criticisms of the first expansion, Shattered Space, which received a lukewarm reception.
While Bethesda prepares these large-scale updates, the modding community has been thriving, especially with ambitious projects like the Star Wars Genesis overhaul. This mod transforms Starfield into an open-world Star Wars RPG, complete with new races, locations, story elements, and gameplay mechanics. It offers players a fresh way to experience the game, providing substantial content and replayability for free or at a low cost. Such mods have helped keep the player base engaged during the quieter period for official updates.
In summary, Starfield is entering a promising new phase with a major content drop planned for spring 2026, including the PS5 release, a free update with gameplay enhancements, and a substantial new DLC. While 2025 has been relatively quiet, this period has allowed modders to innovate and expand the game in exciting ways. Bethesda’s upcoming efforts appear focused on addressing fan feedback and revitalizing the game, potentially giving Starfield a strong second life and broadening its appeal to new audiences.