Summary
Pets like dogs and cats do not appear to be a part ofStarfielddespite early evidence of their inclusion. Further, there’s evidence that Bethesda may have gone a step further and provided an in-game explanation for the lack of pets inStarfield– their extinction. The often viral popularity of pets in games has led to developers across the industry adding dogs and cats to their games. Bethesda may have decided to place its resources in other areas forStarfield.
It really can’t be understated how impactful the addition of a dog or cat to a video game can be. People like animals, and interacting with them in video games is a quick way to create an emotional connection. But the bigger reason for adding an interactive dog or cat to a game is because of its potential to go viral on social media. For example, theCan You Pet the Dog? Twitter accounthas over 500,000 followers and has worked directly with game developers to share clips in the past. It’s an excellent way to draw attention to a game.
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It’s no surprise then that withStarfieldout in early access, the Can You Pet the Dog? Twitter account has already made a post about the new game. The bad news is, however, that it seemsStarfieldhas no dogs or other pets. The account shares a piece ofStarfieldconcept artthat shows a pet cat, but says despite that, “pets do not appear to be present in the full game.”
What’s especially interesting is the discovery of some in-gameStarfieldlore that might explain the absence of pets. A screenshot of a tin can labeled “Chocolate Labs” explains that it contains chocolates in the shape of Labrador Retrievers. It goes on to say that this species of canine is extinct.
Starfieldis set in the year 2330, over 300 years in the future. Technology has moved forward rapidly and humanity has built colonies across the galaxy. The spread of humanity into space is aconsequence of Earth being turned into a barren wasteland. Mass extinction has occurred, and it seems dogs and cats could be included in that.
The question is whether Bethesda actually planned toinclude pets inStarfield. The concept art indicates it did, so perhaps Bethesda decided it would be too much work and shifted direction. It’s also possible the concept art took liberties, showing a pet Bethesda never planned to add toStarfield. Either way, Bethesda’s decision is now clear. Not only are there no pets, but they may all be extinct.
Starfieldreleases September 6 on PC and Xbox Series X/S.
