The upcoming releases of Bethesda’s ‘Starfield’ and Larian Studios’ ‘Baldur’s Gate 3’ set the stage for a grand RPG clash later this year. Despite both titles being console exclusives and the stir caused by a recent fan petition, the gaming industry is keenly awaiting the launch of these anticipated games.
Head-to-Head RPG Release
The early access release date for Bethesda’s open-world sci-fi game, ‘Starfield,’ set for September 1, sets up an intriguing confrontation with the PS5 timed-console exclusive ‘Baldur’s Gate 3,’ scheduled to launch just a day earlier on August 31. Following the Starfield Direct presentation, excitement has surged for Bethesda’s open-world sci-fi RPG. Despite skepticism from some fans after Fallout 76, others believe ‘Starfield’ will mark a return to form for Bethesda. The game’s ascent up the Steam sales charts after the Starfield Direct presentation suggests that, barring any catastrophic launch problems, ‘Starfield’ could be one of the biggest games of 2023. On the other hand, ‘Baldur’s Gate 3’ from Larian Studios also holds significant promise. Known for its high-rated RPGs, such as the Divinity: Original Sin series, Larian Studios has raised high expectations for its upcoming release.
The Console Exclusivity Factor
While ‘Starfield’ will only be released on PC and Xbox Series X/S consoles, ‘Baldur’s Gate 3’ will initially only be available on Mac, PC, and PlayStation 5. This console exclusivity, while separating the fan bases, sets up an interesting dynamic. This competition will be further fueled by ‘Starfield’s’ early access plans, allowing those who purchase the Premium Edition or the Premium upgrade to start playing on September 1, putting both RPGs neck and neck.
Response from the Gaming Community
A Change.org petition has surfaced online, almost reaching 1,000 signatures, requesting Bethesda to make ‘Starfield’ a PS5 exclusive. This petition, allegedly started by a troll, is considered an amusing stunt by many, featuring claims such as Bethesda games performing better on PlayStation and criticism towards Xbox fans. The petition even goes so far as to suggest protests outside stores on launch day if unsuccessful. Despite the console wars and petitions, what remains undeniable is the anticipation surrounding these games. Those with PS5 will get ‘Baldur’s Gate 3,’ while Xbox users will get ‘Starfield.’ PC users, however, will have the luxury of choosing between both games.
Impact of Petitions and Fan Wars
While fan wars and petitions have added a degree of humor and unpredictability to the mix, they are unlikely to influence the ultimate performance of these games. The petition to make ‘Starfield’ a PS5 exclusive, despite nearing 1,000 signatures, is widely regarded as a troll attempt. The petition even includes suggestions to protest at stores on launch day or contact political representatives, adding to the general absurdity of the situation. Many who signed the petition appear to have done so to voice their amusement or disbelief in the comments section. However, the overall sense from the gaming community is one of anticipation for the two games’ release rather than any serious consideration of console exclusivity changes.
Competitive Advantage and Market Dynamics
The current console exclusivity setup could work in favor of both games. PS5 owners will have access to ‘Baldur’s Gate 3,’ and Xbox owners will be able to play ‘Starfield,’ potentially expanding the user base for both games. This unique arrangement could potentially facilitate the success of both games, even in the face of their competing launch dates.
Final Thoughts
Despite the console wars, fan petitions, and platform exclusivity, the imminent release of ‘Starfield’ and ‘Baldur’s Gate 3’ has brought a sense of excitement and anticipation within the gaming community. As these highly anticipated RPGs prepare for their near-simultaneous releases, the spotlight is on them to deliver top-notch gaming experiences. Whether you’re an Xbox player looking forward to exploring the cosmos in ‘Starfield,’ a PlayStation enthusiast ready to dive into the high-fantasy world of ‘Baldur’s Gate 3,’ or a PC gamer fortunate enough to have access to both games, the upcoming RPG showdown is sure to be a thrilling journey for all.