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Starfield Releases New Update for November 2024

Bethesda has released a new update for Starfield in November 2024, bringing significant enhancements and fixes to the game. One of the most notable changes is the reinstatement of the uncapped frame rate option for Xbox Series X users with compatible displays. This feature allows players to experience smoother gameplay, provided they have a Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) capable monitor or TV. The uncapped frame rate option had been previously unavailable but has now returned, addressing one of the early criticisms from console players.

Shattered Space DLC Receives Key Bug Fixes

The update also addresses several issues within the Shattered Space DLC, which launched just over a month ago to positive reviews. Taking players to the enigmatic House Va'ruun homeworld, Va'ruun'kai, the DLC delves deeper into the mysterious space cult. Bethesda has fixed bugs related to key quests such as "What Remains," "A House Divided," and "Zealous Overreach," enhancing the overall player experience and ensuring smoother progression through the DLC's narrative.

Improvements to Trackers Alliance Quests

Significant attention has been given to the Trackers Alliance quests. The update ensures that bounty targets now appear in major hubs like Mars' Cydonia, Gagarin Landing, and Akila City, addressing previous issues where targets were missing. Bounty targets have also received wardrobe updates for greater variety, and fixes have been implemented to prevent players from exploiting additional credits through extortion and then eliminating the targets. These changes aim to provide a more engaging and balanced gameplay experience.

General Performance Enhancements

Beyond specific quest fixes, Bethesda has implemented general performance and stability improvements. Issues with the home screen's Message of the Day display on Xbox have been resolved, and certain console commands that previously did not disable achievements now function correctly. Additionally, improvements have been made to the stealth mechanics around crowd NPCs, and the Annihilator Particle Beam's damage-over-time effect no longer triggers negative companion reactions.

Future Content and Ongoing Support

With the release of Shattered Space, Bethesda has yet to confirm any additional major DLCs for Starfield. However, Todd Howard has mentioned a "Year 2" roadmap, expressing the studio's interest in delivering one significant expansion per year. While details remain under wraps, fans can look forward to continued support and enhancements as Bethesda commits to improving Starfield for years to come.

Full Patch Notes for Update 1.14.74

General

• General performance and stability improvements.
• The uncapped frame rate option is available again for Xbox Series X users.
• The Message of the Day now displays more consistently on Xbox.
• Addressed an issue where some console commands did not disable certain achievements.
• Shattered Space will now show ownership correctly for Steam users.

Gameplay

• The Annihilator Particle Beam damage-over-time effect no longer triggers companion reactions.
• Resolved a Leadership skill issue that could cause companions not to speak up.
• Improved function of the stealth bar while around crowd NPCs.
• Addressed an issue where destroyed ships could load in without collision.
• Fixed issues where loading a save that relied on missing content could place the player in an undesirable location.
• Trackers Alliance
• Roach will now accurately track the number of completed bounties.
• Bounty targets will now appear in Akila, Gagarin, and Cydonia.
• Fixed an issue where players could receive additional credits by extorting the target and then killing them.
• Bounty targets now have a larger variety of appearances.
• Bounty targets will be removed after being dealt with and leaving the area.
• Extorting or bribing a bounty target is no longer a guaranteed success.

Quests

• The Starjacker: The correct quest objective will display when the player boards the Junker Watchdog.
• Legacy of the Fang: Addressed an issue that could cause the key to no longer open the door if the player had left the area.
• The Duel: If the player attacks Danika and gets arrested, they can now speak to her afterward to complete the quest.
• The Scaled Citadel: Anasko’s ID Key is now flagged as a quest item.
• What Remains: Fixed an issue where certain creations could make the hatch on The Oracle non-interactable.
• A House Divided: Doors in the Radiology Center will stay unlocked during this quest if the player exits the area and returns.
• Zealous Overreach: Fixed multiple issues to ensure smooth progression and interaction with key characters.

This November update demonstrates Bethesda's ongoing commitment to enhancing Starfield by addressing player feedback and improving gameplay mechanics. With significant fixes to quests, performance enhancements, and the reinstatement of popular features, players can expect a more polished and enjoyable experience as they explore the vast reaches of space.