Starfield: Which Path Should You Choose First – Main Quest or Factions?

In the vast and immersive world of Starfield, players are faced with a daunting decision right from the get-go: whether to embark on the main quest or align themselves with one of the game’s factions first. Both paths offer unique experiences and exciting adventures, but choosing the right one can greatly impact the course of your journey. This guide aims to help you make an informed decision by weighing the pros and cons of each option, so you can set off on the path that best suits your playstyle and goals. So, are you ready to embark on a thrilling adventure in the stars?

Main Quest vs. Factions: Key Differences

Main Quest

Pros

• Offers a clear, linear storyline: The main quest provides a well-defined narrative that unfolds in a specific order, offering players a clear direction and purpose throughout the game.
• Provides a sense of direction and purpose: The main quest ensures that players have a defined objective to work towards, making it easier to stay engaged and motivated in the game.
• Typically features epic and memorable moments: The main quest often includes significant events and encounters that are both memorable and impactful, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

Cons

• Limited player choice and customization: The main quest typically offers limited options for player choice and customization, which may be disappointing for those who prefer a more flexible gaming experience.
• Can feel restrictive for players who prefer freedom: The linear nature of the main quest may be limiting for players who enjoy exploring different paths and making their own decisions.
• May lack replayability: Since the main quest follows a fixed storyline, players may find it less replayable compared to other game elements that offer more variability.

Factions

Factions in Starfield are a significant aspect of the game, offering players a variety of activities, quests, and choices. These choices can have a significant impact on the game’s narrative and world, allowing for a more immersive experience. Here are some pros and cons to consider when deciding whether to focus on the main quest or factions first:

• Pros:
  • Offers a wide range of activities and quests: Factions provide a variety of missions and tasks, allowing players to engage in different types of gameplay and explore various aspects of the game world.
  • Provides opportunities for player choice and customization: By choosing which factions to align with and which quests to undertake, players can tailor their experience to their preferred playstyle and personal preferences.
  • Allows for more freedom in gameplay: With multiple factions to choose from, players can create their own path through the game, choosing which missions to prioritize and which alliances to form.
• Cons:
  • Can be overwhelming for players who prefer a clear direction: With so many options and choices, factions can be overwhelming for players who prefer a more straightforward experience.
  • May lack a strong narrative: While factions offer a variety of quests and activities, they may not have a strong overarching narrative, which can make it difficult for players to feel a sense of progression or direction.
  • May lead to a sense of disjointedness: With so many different factions and quests to choose from, players may feel like they are jumping between different experiences, which can create a sense of disjointedness and confusion.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Path

Playstyle

• Exploration-focused players may prefer factions
• Story-focused players may prefer main quest

For players who are more focused on exploration, factions may be the way to go. Factions offer a variety of quests and missions that take players to different areas of the game world, allowing them to explore and discover new locations and hidden secrets. In addition, factions often have their own unique lore and backstory, providing players with a deeper understanding of the game’s world and history.

On the other hand, players who are more interested in the game’s story may prefer to follow the main quest line. The main quest provides a clear narrative path through the game, with a series of interconnected missions and story arcs that gradually reveal the game’s overarching plot. By following the main quest, players can fully immerse themselves in the game’s story and experience all of its twists and turns.

Ultimately, the choice between main quest and factions comes down to personal playstyle. Exploration-focused players may find that factions offer the most enjoyable and rewarding experience, while story-focused players may prefer the structure and narrative depth of the main quest line.

Time Constraints

• Factions may be better for players with limited time
  • Factions quests are usually shorter and more focused
  • Players can complete them quickly, without feeling overwhelmed
  • They also provide an opportunity to explore different aspects of the game
• Main quest may be better for players with more time
  • Main quest is usually longer and more complex
  • Players can take their time to explore the game world
  • It also provides a sense of accomplishment and progress as players complete the quest and move closer to the endgame

Choosing between the main quest and factions depends on the player’s available time and preferences. If a player has limited time, factions may be a better choice as they can be completed quickly and provide a sense of progression. On the other hand, if a player has more time, the main quest may be a better choice as it provides a more immersive and detailed experience.

Replayability

• Factions may offer more replayability
• Main quest may offer a more memorable, immersive experience

Factions may offer more replayability

• Engaging in different factions provides unique storylines and side quests
• Exploring different factions allows players to interact with various characters and environments
• Each faction has its own set of rewards and challenges, providing players with different experiences

Main quest may offer a more memorable, immersive experience

• The main quest typically follows a linear storyline that ties together the game’s narrative
• Players will experience memorable moments and interactions with key characters
• The main quest often provides a sense of purpose and direction for the player, making it a more immersive experience

Making Your Decision

When faced with the decision of whether to start with the main quest or factions in Starfield, it is important to consider your priorities, playstyle, and available time. Here are some factors to consider when making your decision:

Assess Your Priorities

Before deciding which path to take first, consider what your priorities are in the game. Do you value a strong storyline? Do you want the freedom to explore the game world at your own pace? Are you more interested in replayability and multiple endings? Your priorities will play a significant role in determining which path you should choose first.

Consider Your Playstyle and Available Time

Your playstyle and available time can also impact your decision. If you prefer a more structured experience, the main quest may be the better choice. However, if you prefer a more open-ended experience, factions may be the way to go. Additionally, if you have limited time to play, you may want to focus on the main quest to ensure you can complete it before moving on to other content.

Experiment with Both Paths to Determine Your Preference

Ultimately, the best way to determine which path to choose first is to experiment with both. Try completing a few main quest missions and then switch to factions, or vice versa. This will give you a better idea of which path you enjoy more and will help you make an informed decision about which path to pursue first.

Overall, the decision of whether to start with the main quest or factions in Starfield depends on your priorities, playstyle, and available time. By considering these factors and experimenting with both paths, you can make an informed decision and enjoy the game to the fullest.

FAQs

1. What is the main quest in Starfield?

The main quest in Starfield is the primary storyline of the game that takes the player on a journey through the galaxy to uncover the mysteries of the universe. The main quest is designed to be played in a linear fashion, with each new mission building on the one before it.

2. What are factions in Starfield?

Factions in Starfield are groups of non-playable characters (NPCs) that the player can interact with. These groups have their own goals, agendas, and stories, and the player can choose to align themselves with one or more factions. Each faction has its own set of missions and quests, which can be completed in any order.

3. What are the benefits of doing the main quest first?

Doing the main quest first in Starfield allows the player to experience the game’s main storyline in a linear fashion, which can make it easier to follow and understand. Additionally, completing the main quest will unlock new areas and content, making it easier to explore the game world.

4. What are the benefits of doing factions first?

Doing factions first in Starfield allows the player to experience the game’s many side stories and characters, which can provide a more immersive and engaging experience. Additionally, completing faction quests can provide unique rewards and benefits, such as new weapons and abilities.

5. Can I switch between the main quest and factions?

Yes, the player can switch between the main quest and factions at any time in Starfield. However, it is recommended to stick to one path at a time to avoid confusion and ensure a more cohesive experience.

6. How long does it take to complete the main quest?

The length of time it takes to complete the main quest in Starfield will vary depending on the player’s playstyle and how much time they dedicate to the game. However, it is estimated that the main quest can take anywhere from 20 to 40 hours to complete.

7. How long does it take to complete all factions?

The length of time it takes to complete all factions in Starfield will also vary depending on the player’s playstyle and how much time they dedicate to the game. However, it is estimated that completing all factions can take anywhere from 20 to 40 hours.

8. Is there a “right” way to play Starfield?

There is no “right” way to play Starfield, as the game is designed to be played in many different ways. Some players may prefer to focus on the main quest, while others may prefer to explore the many factions and side stories. Ultimately, the choice is up to the player and what they want to experience in the game.

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