The ambitious space epic Starfield, despite a bumpy reception from players and critics alike, continues to evolve not only through official updates from Bethesda but also through the creativity of its modding community. A noteworthy example of this innovation comes from modder Jared Kohr, who has taken it upon himself to implement a feature that has fans buzzing with excitement: pilotable mechs.
The presence of mechs in Starfield’s expansive universe has been a tantalizing yet unreachable aspect of the game’s lore. These towering machines are prominently featured in the game’s backdrop, as relics of past conflicts known as the Colony Wars, populating factories, junkyards, and museums. This begs the question, “why, tho?” Why introduce such a fascinating element into the game’s world without allowing players to interact with it in a meaningful way?
Jared Kohr’s work-in-progress mod seems to have provided an answer to that question. An early test video showcases a player navigating the terrain in a heavy, stomping mech—complete with a satisfying arsenal of weapons—that feels right at home amidst Starfield’s cosmic frontiers. The mech, modeled by another modder named m150. As we wait for the final touches, such as an adjustable third-person camera angle and a potential first-person cockpit view, we can’t help but envision the exhilarating possibilities these mechs will bring to Starfield’s gameplay.
Bethesda themselves hinted at “all new ways of traveling” slated for a 2024 update to Starfield, and while details are scarce, speculation has run rampant. Could official pilotable mechs be on the horizon, given Bethesda’s experience with power armor mechanics in the Fallout series? Only time will tell. However, it’s clear that the modding community isn’t willing to wait around for what could be.
The trajectory of Starfield has indeed been peculiar, winning a Steam Award and retaining a dedicated player base despite its lukewarm reception. With Bethesda promising updates “roughly every six weeks” starting the following month and teasing new features, it’s apparent that the studio is determined to refine and expand upon their vision for the game.
As for the modding community, it’s a testament to their passion and ingenuity that such significant enhancements can come from their ranks. While some prominent modders have moved on from Starfield, others like Jared Kohr see potential in Bethesda’s sprawling universe and are making it their mission to unlock it.
Relevant articles:
– A Starfield modder is doing something Bethesda should have done: making pilotable mechs. (And then later Bethesda will add it in as a dlc)
– Pilotable mechs are coming to Starfield, thanks to a modder
– Starfield finally has pilotable mechs, you can check ’em out now