Starfield first launched for Xbox Series X|S and PC on September 6, 2023, and arrived on PlayStation 5 on April 7, 2026. The original preload and early-access dates are past; for a new purchase, check the live storefront for your platform and region. The PS5 Premium Edition includes both major story expansions and additional digital extras.
When did Starfield launch?
Bethesda set the original launch for midnight UTC on September 6, 2023. At that time, the game was available on Xbox Series X|S and PC through the Microsoft Store and Steam; Game Pass members could play on September 6. Bethesda later released Starfield on PS5 on April 7, 2026.
These are two distinct launch dates: the 2023 date is for the original Xbox and PC release, while the 2026 date marks the PS5 release. The PS5 version includes major updates released by then, including Free Lanes.
What platforms can you play Starfield on?
- Xbox Series X|S: Original platform, released September 6, 2023.
- Windows PC: Released September 6, 2023, through the Microsoft Store and Steam.
- PlayStation 5: Released April 7, 2026, in physical and digital editions.
Free Lanes launched across platforms on the PS5 release date. Bethesda describes it as enabling free flight between planets within a star system. PlayStation Blog’s Bethesda-authored announcement gives details about the update and the PS5 release.
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- Start your journey by customizing your appearance and deciding your Background and Traits
- Venture through the stars and explore more than 1000 planets
- Pilot and command the ship of your dreams.
How much does Starfield cost?
There is no reliable single price to quote across platforms, editions, countries, or current promotions. Check your country’s live Xbox, Steam, or PlayStation storefront for the edition you want, and confirm the price and seller before buying. A current sale listing is not the same as the original launch price.
What editions are available on PS5?
Bethesda announced physical and digital Standard and Premium Editions for PS5. The Premium Edition Upgrade is digital only. The included content differs as follows:
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![Starfield (Standard Edition) [Xbox Series X]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51H0Hjwc50L._SL160_.jpg)
- Includes: Starfield Standard Edition (Disc)
- Travel to the stars in this next-gen RPG from the award-winning creators of The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim and Fallout 4
- Create a character according to your imagination and explore the endless expanses in unparalleled freedom
- The goal of this epic journey? The answer to humanity's greatest question
| Edition | Format | Included content |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Edition | Physical or digital | Base game. |
| Premium Edition | Physical or digital | Base game; Terran Armada and Shattered Space DLC; 1,000 Creation Credits upon release; Constellation Skin Pack; digital artbook and soundtrack access. |
| Premium Edition Upgrade | Digital only | Premium add-ons; check the platform listing for the exact upgrade contents and eligibility requirements before purchase. |
Terran Armada is a story DLC that can also be purchased separately, according to Bethesda’s announcement. Edition availability and listing details can vary by storefront. Bethesda’s PS5 release announcement lists the announced editions and Premium contents.
Can you still preload Starfield?
The preload schedule Bethesda published in its August 24, 2023 FAQ applied to the original launch, not to a current or upcoming release window. At the time, preload was available on Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC, while Steam preload was scheduled to begin August 30, 2023. Those dates have passed; consult the relevant storefront for any preload option tied to a current platform listing or future update.
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- TELL YOUR STORY - In Starfield the most important story is the one you tell with your character. Start your journey by customizing your appearance and deciding your Background and Traits. Will you be an experienced explorer, a charming diplomat, a stealthy cyber runner, or something else entirely? The choice is yours. Decide who you will be and what you will become.
- EXPLORE OUTER SPACE - Venture through the stars and explore more than 1000 planets. Navigate bustling cities, explore dangerous bases, and traverse wild landscapes. Meet and recruit a memorable cast of characters, join in the adventures of various factions, and embark on quests across the Settled Systems. A new story or experience is always waiting to be discovered.
- CAPTAIN THE SHIP OF YOUR DREAMS - Pilot and command the ship of your dreams. Personalize the look of your ship, modify critical systems including weapons and shields, and assign crew members to provide unique bonuses. In deep space you will engage in high-stakes dogfights, encounter random missions, dock at star stations, and even board and commandeer enemy ships to add to your collection.
- DISCOVER, COLLECT, BUILD - Explore planets and discover the fauna, flora, and resources needed to craft everything from medicine and food to equipment and weapons. Build outposts and hire a crew to passively extract materials and establish cargo links to transfer resources between them. Invest these raw materials into research projects to unlock unique crafting recipes.
- LOCK AND LOAD - Space can be a dangerous place. A refined combat system gives you the tools to deal with any situation. Whether you prefer long-range rifles, laser weapons, or demolitions, each weapon type can be modified to complement your playstyle. Zero G environments add a chaotic spectacle to combat, while boost packs give players freedom to maneuver like never before.
Did Starfield offer early access?
For the 2023 release, buyers of the Constellation Edition, Premium Edition, or the specified Premium Edition Upgrade (Xbox Play Anywhere only) could receive up to five days of early access before September 6. The purchase route mattered:
- The physical Xbox Standard Edition disc was not expected to arrive before launch through the normal release schedule.
- The Steam Premium Edition Upgrade was available at launch and did not include early access.
- The physical Xbox Standard Edition included a disc; the Constellation Edition included a code for the Digital Premium Edition.
These were launch-era terms, not a promise of early access for a purchase made today. Bethesda’s August 24, 2023 Starfield FAQ describes the original timing and format-specific caveats.
Quick Recap
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- Only at Amazon Limited Edition Content - The Rogue Infiltrator Character Pack includes cosmetics for Kay and Nix.
- Discover a galaxy of opportunity. Explore distinct locations with bustling cities and cantinas. Race across sprawling outdoor landscapes on your speeder. Each location brings new adventures, unique challenges, and enticing rewards if you’re willing to take the risk.
- Experience an original scoundrel story. Live the high-stakes lifestyle of an outlaw. Turn any situation to your advantage with Nix by your side: fight with your blaster, overcome enemies with stealth and gadgets, or find the right moments to distract enemies and gain the upper hand.
- Embark on high-stakes missions. Take on high-risk, high-reward missions from the galaxy’s crime syndicates. Steal valuable goods, infiltrate secret locations, and outwit enemies as one of the galaxy’s most wanted. Every choice you make influences your ever-changing reputation.
- Jump into the pilot seat. Pilot your ship, the Trailblazer, as you engage in thrilling dogfights with the Empire and other foes. Find the right opportunities to chase, evade, and attack to get the upper hand.
What should you check before buying?
- Confirm that the listing is for your platform: Xbox Series X|S, PC, or PS5.
- Choose physical or digital based on the edition actually offered in your region.
- Compare the included content, especially if you want Terran Armada, Shattered Space, or Premium digital extras.
- Check whether an upgrade requires ownership of the base game and whether its listed contents match your edition.
- Use the live regional storefront for current pricing; do not infer the game’s price from accessory announcements or an old sale.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
