Improving Starfield’s Gameplay Through Community Mods
Starfield, Bethesda’s new open world space RPG, offers players expansive exploration across planets and custom spaceships. However, some fans have found aspects of the vanilla gameplay lackluster. Thankfully, modders have stepped in to enhance the experience. This article will overview popular mods that improve graphics, combat, exploration, and more.
Also read: Starfield’s highest difficulty
Enhancing Visuals
Starfield’s graphics received criticism for feeling dated. Two graphics mods help modernize the visuals:
Starfield HD Reworked Project
This extensive mod upgrades most textures in the game to 2K/4K resolution. Reviews praise the sharpness and detail added while maintaining performance on low-end PCs.
Natural LUTs
LUTs (Look Up Tables) alter color grading and lighting. This mod provides a more natural, vibrant look compared to the flatter vanilla hues. Three preset options allow customization based on preference.
| Mod | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Starfield HD Reworked Project | 2K/4K textures, improved detail, performance friendly |
| Natural LUTs | Altered color grading and lighting, 3 preset options |
Refining Gameplay Mechanics
Beyond aesthetics, several mods target Starfield’s core mechanics.
Improved Combat AI
Players found enemy AI behavior repetitive and exploitable. This mod makes AI more dynamic and challenging by:
- Reducing delays between attacks
- Flanking and utilizing cover more
- Continuing aggression when low on health
User feedback indicates significantly improved combat engagement.
| Mod | Key Enhancements |
|---|---|
| Improved Combat AI | Reduced delays, better flanking, persistent aggression |
Slower Than Light Fly in Star Systems
Starfield only allows seamless takeoff and landing on accessible planets. With this mod, players can fly to and land on any planet or moon at slower speeds. This expands exploration possibilities, though higher speeds can cause stability issues.
Star UI HUD
Starfield’s busy default HUD lacked key information for looting and inventory management. This UI overhaul adds:
- Item values for efficient looting
- Detailed popup inspecting items
- Loot all button
- Better quest and map navigation
As one Redditor described: “This mod changed how I play the entire game…I’m going to be looting silverware from now on.”
| Mod | Key Additions |
|---|---|
| Star UI HUD | Item values, inspect popups, loot all button, enhanced navigation |
Controversial Body Mods
Some NSFW body mods have stirred debate in the community. Offerings like Voluptuous Body for Beauties replace the vanilla model with dramatically enhanced curves. Supporters enjoy expanded customization, while critics argue it promotes unrealistic standards. Such mods exemplify how, for better or worse, passionate fans push boundaries beyond the developers’ intent.
Starfield Mods
Starfield’s expansive worlds have hooked players, but its execution has clear areas for improvement. Dedicated modders have stepped in to smooth rough edges through upgraded visuals, smarter AI, UI overhauls, and expanded exploration. This demonstrates how mods empower players to customize their experience and highlights where the base game fell short. With support from modders, Starfield may yet reach its full potential.