Skill Review: Starfinder

Starfinder by Paizo is an interactive multi-part RPG set in a futuristic extraterrestrial setting. It begins with appointing heroes to analyze a dubious ship that emerges on the Absalom station. Created by Amazon in collaboration with Paizo, the skill boasts a star-studded cast like Nathan Fillion, Laura Bailey, and 13 other artists voicing its characters.

The pilot episode entails a mission briefing and character creation. To help players settle for an optimal character, the game takes a proactive approach by analyzing their problem-solving skills. Conclusively, the character is bestowed with an ancestry and a class. From here on begins the interactive adventure that unveils the glorious setting of Absalom station.

It bodes well if you keep a dice handy before you start playing. There is an added layer of complexity to the choice-based format such that outcomes are also influenced by the number you roll on the dice. While beginners may feel the crunch of calculating outcomes based on the dice, seasoned gamers will definitely appreciate the precision in combat choreography. It’s possible to switch characters at will but that means you will need to replay the chapters from the beginning. With the narration drawing vivid pictures of the surroundings and the sound design rounding out the experiences of your character the game pulls you into the setting. The thrill emanating from battling foes alongside friends you make within the world is a major hook. 

You are required to purchase a season pass to access all the chapters in the game. Being a six-episode-long adventure, there is a tendency for players to binge all the chapters in a go. The game introduces occasional checkpoints to remind the players they can catch a break and resume later if need be. One limitation with the help feature however is that, though resourceful its contents vary depending on the player’s progress within the game. Beginners may find it inconvenient to not have the basic commands handy all the time. You can check the weapons in your arsenal by pulling up the inventory. All information on available weapons is at your disposal with a simple command.

The VOGO Voice team scores this skill 4.5 out of 5 stars based on our rating system. Going through a challenging combat adventure with strong characters is a truly satisfying experience. Even with multiple pathways, the storyline never dips or loses its grip on the player’s attention. Through an eclectic mix of voice acting, sound effects, music, and a high-stakes storyline, Starfinder manages to create a unique symphony that rejuvenates the experience of a voice-driven RPG.