Game Scoop! Episode 782: Starfield - Starfixed or Starf*cked? Release Date: October 5, 2024

Introduction

In this special "Spooky Season" episode of IGN's Game Scoop!, host Damon Hatfield is temporarily joined by Justin Davis, the show's Starfield reviewer and "review master," alongside managing editor Rachel Weber. The trio dives deep into the latest gaming news, with a particular focus on Bethesda's much-anticipated Starfield DLC. Additionally, they explore new gaming hardware, discuss other popular games, and share their favorite spooky season movies and shows.

1. PS5 Pro Anniversary Edition

The episode kicks off with an excited discussion about the newly released PlayStation 5 Pro Anniversary Edition. Priced at over £1,000 (approximately $1,000), the limited edition console has stirred significant interest among gaming enthusiasts.

Damon Hatfield provides an overview of the bundle:

"The bundle comes packed with a special version of the PS5 Pro console and awesome accessories that feature throwback design elements and a legacy color scheme."
[02:00]

Rachel Weber expresses her admiration despite the high price:

"I love it. I am a PlayStation girl through and through. I cannot justify spending that, but I wish I could."
[02:11]

Justin Davis shares a positive outlook on the console's aesthetics:

"This console is gorgeous. It's amazing what a different coat of paint and different kind of colorway can do for the design of something."
[04:56]

However, the high cost and limited availability, especially with only 12,300 units numbered globally, make it a coveted item that's unlikely to be widely accessible, especially due to reseller protections in places like Japan.

Damon Hatfield adds:

"All the extra stuff you get on it is just gravy, I guess."
[05:59]

Despite mixed feelings about the price, the group's consensus is that the PS5 Pro Anniversary Edition is a must-have for dedicated collectors and PlayStation aficionados.

2. Starfield DLC: Starfixed or Starf*cked?

The centerpiece of this episode is the discussion surrounding the latest Starfield DLC, aptly titled Shattered Space. As the community debates whether the DLC has "Starfixed or Starf*cked" the game, the hosts share their hands-on experiences.

A. Dan Stapleton's Take

Dan Stapleton is transparent about his experiences:

"I did not dislike this game. I recommended it in the review. I enjoyed playing it and I continue to enjoy playing."
[13:00]

He praises the DLC for adding substantial story content and moving away from procedurally generated filler, emphasizing the handcrafted nature of new quests.

"Once you go to the va'ruun homeworld, you can leave, but you never have to. Every quest there is self-contained. It feels much more like a traditional Bethesda world."
[13:53]

However, Stapleton critiques the DLC for not expanding on space exploration as much as expected, noting the lack of new systems or major gameplay innovations.

"There's no skill tree. There's no new systems or anything. It's just new story content."
[24:56]

He rates the DLC a 7 out of 10, appreciating the improvements but finding it unambitious and not enticing enough for newcomers.

B. Rachel Weber's Experience

Rachel Weber shares her initial challenges returning to the game:

"I was halfway through a mission that I couldn't remember. My inventory was a mess."
[15:28]

She highlights improvements in inventory management and map usability, though she laments persistent issues with inventory complexity.

"It's very Game of Thrones. There's lots of different houses... It wasn't as fun as I think they thought it was."
[18:40]

Rachel appreciates the deeper storytelling and unique quests but feels the DLC doesn't fully capitalize on the potential for space-themed gameplay.

C. Final Verdict

The collective viewpoint suggests that while the Shattered Space DLC enhances Starfield with more engaging storylines and quality-of-life improvements, it falls short of revolutionizing the gameplay experience. Existing fans may find value, but it may not attract new players.

3. Other Gaming Highlights

A. The Legend of Zelda

Justin Davis and his daughters delve into the latest Zelda game, appreciating its expansive and layered storytelling.

"The more that I play each evening, it sort of like reveals itself like an onion and just gets kind of bigger and bigger in scope."
[28:02]

They commend the game's freedom, puzzle design, and nostalgic elements, although Justin notes a lingering urge to engage more directly in combat mechanics.

"I keep wanting to say that it's clunky, but clunky is not the right word."
[30:21]

Rachel Weber shares her admiration for the game's aesthetic and depth, reinforcing its status as a family favorite.

B. Frostpunk 2

Dan Stapleton reviews Frostpunk 2, praising its grander scope and complex decision-making mechanics compared to its predecessor.

"It's a city-building sim. Yeah."
[35:33]

However, he points out that the sequel shifts away from the intimate feel of the original, opting for a more expansive civilization-level management approach.

C. Lightyear Frontier

Rachel Weber introduces Lightyear Frontier, a farming and crafting simulator with mechs, highlighting its seamless performance on the Steam Deck.

"It's so much fun. It runs great on Steam Deck."
[34:21]

4. Extracurricular Activities: Spooky Season Entertainment

As October ushers in the spooky season, the hosts share their favorite horror movies and TV shows.

Damon Hatfield recommends:

• Lisa Frankenstein – A teen gore comedy with a playful nod to 90s aesthetics.
• Beetlejuice Times Two – An entertaining double feature with plenty of gross-out humor.
• First Omen – A Catholic-themed horror that combines classic elements with a modern twist.

Rachel Weber suggests:

• Grotesque on Hulu – Ryan Murphy's take on a police procedural with dark, religious undertones.
• Salem's Lot on Max – A new vampire adaptation with mixed reviews.
• VHS Beyond – An anthology series featuring IGN alumna Alana Pierce.
• Hysteria and Teacup on Peacock – Diverse offerings ranging from supernatural bands to family farm mysteries.
• Hold Your Breath on Hulu – Starring Sarah Paulson, it delves into a woman's battle against an unseen evil force.

Justin Davis adds:

• Sunny on Apple TV+ – A dark comedy-thriller starring Rashida Jones, blending quirky storytelling with emotional depth.

5. Video Game 20 Questions: Twisted Metal

The episode features a fun segment where the hosts engage in a game of 20 Questions to guess a nominated video game. The game in focus is Twisted Metal, a classic vehicular combat game first released in 1995 for the PlayStation.

Gameplay Highlights:

• Twisted Metal involves players using modified vehicles to inflict damage on opponents, emphasizing car-based destruction rather than direct character combat.
• The game is renowned for its unique characters, including the infamous crybaby clown mascot.
• Despite its multiplayer focus, the game does not involve traditional shooting mechanics, as players’ vehicles perform the attacks.

Host Insights:

• Damon Hatfield humorously recounts the game's unique approach to vehicular combat:

  "It's about driving a car, but it's not a racing game."
  [64:03]

• Justin Davis and Rachel Weber discuss the challenges in identifying the game due to its distinctive mechanics and character designs.

Conclusion

Episode 782 of Game Scoop! offers a comprehensive dive into the latest in gaming hardware, detailed analysis of Starfield’s newest DLC, and insights into beloved titles like Zelda and Frostpunk 2. The hosts also provide valuable recommendations for horror enthusiasts gearing up for the spooky season. With engaging discussions and a playful game of 20 Questions, this episode delivers rich, multifaceted content for both dedicated gamers and casual listeners alike.

Notable Quotes:

• Dan Stapleton on Starfield DLC's storytelling:

  "It's a lot of stuff that they have almost all of it is stuff they've done before. And they put a little bit of a spin on it here to make it Starfield flavored."
  [23:11]

• Rachel Weber on inventory improvements:

  "Now being able to see a piece of food on the ground and just eat it right there instead of having to put it in your inventory."
  [27:31]

• Justin Davis on the emotional aspect of Zelda:

  "It's so good. I almost wasn't even interested. I'll save this game for Christmas."
  [32:07]

This summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and conclusions drawn by the hosts in this episode, providing a comprehensive overview for those who haven't tuned in.