Todd Howard calls Reddit the "smartest fans" in Thank You post ahead of Starfield launch

The path to realization hasn't been straightforward, Howard acknowledged, marked by a series of events including the death of Altman, the COVID-19 pandemic, and Bethesda's acquisition by Microsoft.

Even in the lead up to its launch, Bethesda had to fight off disappointing leaks, unfair comparisons, and otherworldly levels of hate, among others.

The good news is that Starfield's release is finally on the horizon and fans have nothing but positive things to say for now.

While the early-access version is available for those who've purchased the Premium or Constellation Editions, the rest of us will have to wait until September 6. And if you're a Game Pass subscriber, you're in luck. Starfield will be available for play without an additional purchase, and upgrading to one of the early-access editions will give you a five-day start in the game ahead of everyone else. Still unsure of when you can get your hands on the game? Make sure to check this out.

As for the game itself, the early signs point to an unqualified success. Starfield is already rocketing up the Steam charts despite not even being released yet, and the subreddit's hive of activity indicates that this trend will only grow more intense as the game finally hits consoles and PCs.

But what's most striking about Howard's communications - both public and private - is the sincere gratitude and humility that underscore his words. Recognizing the fans' crucial role in fueling the game's development, Howard does not just thank the fans; he lauds their intelligence and engagement. These are not mere platitudes; they echo Howard's genuine sentiment that the game has been a "labor of love," its creation energized by a community who Howard insists "means the world to us."

Of course, the final verdict will be in the hands of the gamers themselves. Yet, as the clock ticks down to what promises to be one of the most momentous game launches in recent years, Todd Howard's gratitude serves as a prelude to the game coming out - an emotional one, if that.

Now, the only thing left for fans is to embark on the journeys that Starfield has to offer, their passions and excitements fully recognized and returned by the creators. It's an auspicious start to a game that hopes to find its own place in the universe of iconic RPGs, bolstered by a community that's already reaching for the stars.