Starfield developers discuss the game’s ‘NASA-Punk’ aesthetic

Bethesda developers have discussed the process of establishing the game’s overall aesthetic, which is internally described as “NASA-Punk”.

While the Elder Scrolls studio is best known for its epic fantasy creations, its first new universe in 25 years has a more realistic science-based backing to it.

“Early on in this project when we were trying to establish the overall aesthetic of this game, we sort of coined the term ‘NASA-Punk’ to describe a sci-fi universe that’s a little more grounded and relatable,” Starfield’s lead artist Istvan Pely told Xbox Wire.

“We wanted a very realistic take. You can draw a line from current-day space technology and extrapolate from there into the future so it’s believable and relatable.”

Lead animator Rick Vicens added: “What’s really interesting is how much we all latched onto that concept. When you said NASA-Punk, the art team could instantly take those two words and make them work.

“It was just the perfect term for our art direction and keeping everyone in same flow and working with a consistent style. For me, it just clicked. At the start of the project, I think that term was critical for us.”

Related

15

2022 Preview: Starfield needs to mark a new era for Bethesda on Xbox

Whether from a storytelling perspective, or a gameplay one, Bethesda looks to shape its new image

Following Microsoft’s $7.5 billion acquisition of Bethesda parent company ZeniMax Media, Starfield will be released for Xbox Series X/S, PC and Game Pass on November 11, 2022.

Microsoft gaming boss Phil Spencer has said he’s aiming to make Starfield Bethesda’s most-played game to date.