**Why Gore Was Not Included in *Starfield*: Insights from Character Artist Dennis Mejillones**

When *Starfield* debuted in September 2023, it signified Bethesda’s bold step into an expansive sci-fi realm. The game has since surpassed 15 million players and launched its first expansion, *Shattered Space*, in September 2024, garnering acclaim for its detailed world-building, sophisticated character customization, and lifelike visuals. However, one significant absence stood out to fans familiar with Bethesda’s earlier works like *Fallout 4*: the lack of gore. In a recent conversation with KIWI TALKZ, character artist Dennis Mejillones provided insight into the rationale behind this design decision, revealing intriguing technical and thematic considerations that influenced the game.

### The Technical Hurdles of Implementing Gore in *Starfield*

As a seasoned character artist with experience on Bethesda classics such as *Skyrim* and *Fallout 4*, Mejillones is well-versed in the complexities of system design. Nevertheless, he pointed out that incorporating gore into *Starfield* posed distinct challenges due to the game’s sophisticated character creation framework. Unlike *Fallout 4*, where character models are relatively uniform, *Starfield* permits players to deeply personalize their avatars, encompassing body proportions, facial attributes, and more.

This high degree of customization resulted in a “big rat’s nest” of technical obstacles regarding the addition of gore. For instance, determining how helmets would sustain damage or how “meat caps” (the inner designs exposed when a head or limb is severed) would appear required consideration of a diverse range of character shapes and sizes. Each variation demanded careful design and testing, leading to a substantial increase in development demands.

“We built a system for gore, but managing it turned into a nightmare,” Mejillones explained. “There were just too many factors to consider, and it became a technical burden that wasn’t justified.”

### Thematic Misalignment with *Starfield*’s Objectives

In addition to the technical issues, Mejillones highlighted that gore did not mesh with *Starfield*’s thematic goals. While titles such as *Fallout 4* embraced gore as part of their exaggerated, humorous violence, *Starfield* sought a more sincere and realistic tone. The team drew inspiration from science fiction narratives like *The Expanse* and *Star Trek*, emphasizing lo-fi, hard sci-fi aesthetics rather than excessive brutality.

“Gore was appropriate in *Fallout 4* because it complemented the game’s stylized, almost cartoonish take on violence,” Mejillones remarked. “But *Starfield* is an entirely different creature. We aimed for a more realistic, grounded feel. Gore simply didn’t belong in that framework.”

This thematic choice reinforces Bethesda’s determination to create a cohesive narrative and aesthetic experience. By emphasizing realism and immersion, the developers made sure that every facet of *Starfield*—from its expansive star systems to its character dynamics—resonated with its sci-fi universe.

### Working with ID Software: The Decision Against Gore

Interestingly, Mejillones disclosed that Bethesda even collaborated with ID Software, the creators behind the *DOOM* series, renowned for its graphic gore systems. However, despite their expertise, ID Software’s contributions ultimately did not find their way into the final version of the game.

“They provided considerable assistance, but in the end, it just didn’t align with the game,” Mejillones observed. This collaboration underscores the extent to which Bethesda investigated the possibility of incorporating gore, while reaffirming their choice to emphasize thematic coherence over fan desires.

### A Deliberate Design Decision

The exclusion of gore in *Starfield* stands as a testament to the deliberate design choices that shaped the game. While certain fans may yearn for the visceral excitement of Bethesda’s prior projects, the decision to omit gore exemplifies the studio’s commitment to presenting a unified and immersive sci-fi narrative. By honing in on realism and addressing the technical complexities of advanced character customization, Bethesda ensured that *Starfield* distinguished itself as a unique addition to their lineup.

As the game progresses with expansions like *Shattered Space*, it will be intriguing to observe how Bethesda navigates fan feedback alongside their creative ambitions. For now, *Starfield* continues to serve as a prominent example of how thoughtful design can enhance a game’s narrative and aesthetic significance—even if it means parting ways with particular features that have defined the developer’s earlier offerings.

For those keen to venture into the expansive realms of *Starfield*’s universe, the game is accessible on PC via Steam and the Microsoft Store, as well as Xbox Series X|S. Whether you’re charting new star territories or exploring the nuances of its character creator, *Starfield* presents a sci-fi adventure unlike any other—gore or no gore.