Yesterday, Bethesda released Update 1.16.236 for Starfield. The developers call it the “Free Lanes” update. It currently stands as the biggest update in the game’s history. Bethesda launched this massive patch alongside the brand-new Terran Armada expansion. Furthermore, Starfield officially debuted on the PlayStation 5 (PS5).
Since most of Bethesda is now focusing on The Elder Scrolls 6, this will likely serve as the last major update for the open-world sci-fi game.
Manual Space Flight & the Terran Armada
The Free Lanes update radically changes navigation. Players can now use cruise mode to travel manually through open space. You can fly directly to points of interest between planets within a star system without relying strictly on warp jumps.
Additionally, the Terran Armada DLC introduces a significant new storyline. This paid expansion throws deadly new robot enemies into the mix. Players exploring the galaxy will also discover the Moon Jumper vehicle, a new Anchorpoint Station POI in the Algorab system, and the Château des Étoiles player house. Furthermore, Muria Siarkiewicz is now available to recruit as a crew member.
Complete PS5 Integration & Crucial Starfield Upgrades
PS5 gamers finally have access to Starfield nearly three years after its initial release. The PS5 version includes all recent quality-of-life features and extra content right from the start.
Meanwhile, Bethesda overhauled several core systems. Outposts now feature Shared Outpost Containers. This allows players to access their inventory across multiple planets. The developers also added a comprehensive Database menu. This new tool greatly improves location, resource, and recipe tracking.
For Starborn players, the new Quantum Entanglement Device finally allows the transfer of select items through the Unity. Starborn powers now utilize Quantum Essence for upgrades, which you can earn by destroying Starborn ships.
Deep Customization & X-Tech Crafting
Bethesda heavily expanded equipment options. The new X-Tech crafting system lets players modify legendary effects on their weapons and armor. You can also build a ship optimization terminal to boost vessel attributes using X-Tech.
Gear now features Additional Quality Tiers, Rank 4 Legendary effects, and individual Upgrade Modules. Finally, players will encounter new Legendary Enemy Modifiers. These modifiers make combat significantly more challenging, though you can adjust their appearance frequency directly in the gameplay settings.
