Starfield release time: When it unlocks on Game Pass and in your time zone

Starfield character stands in a rocky landscape
(Image credit: Bethesda Softworks)

The Starfield release time is finally upon us, with Bethesda's sprawling open world RPG set to open its doors to the universe on September 5. After years of anticipation and speculation, the Starfield launch signifies one of the most important Xbox Game Studios releases in a generation.

Below you'll find information on what time Starfield releases on Game Pass, as well as the Starfield release time for Xbox Series X and PC. This follows a small window of Starfield early access which allowed pre-order players the opportunity to jump in on August 31. Still, with Midnight UTC fast approaching, here's everything you need to know surrounding when Starfield unlocks in your time zone. 

What time can you play Starfield?

(Image credit: Bethesda)

The Starfield release time is officially confirmed for 5pm Pacific and 8PM Eastern on September 5, regardless of what version of the game that you own. Those of you in European regions will need to wait until September 6, owing to time zones being a nightmare. With that in mind, here's what time you can play Starfield:

  • US Pacific: 5PM PDT on September 5
  • US Eastern: 8PM EDT on September 5
  • UK: 1AM BST on September 6
  • Europe: 2AM CEST on September 6
  • Australia: 10am AEST on September 6
  • New Zealand: 12pm NZST on September 6

What time does Starfield release on Game Pass?

Here's when Starfield will be available on Game Pass for PC and Xbox Series X

If you're wondering what time Starfield releases on Game Pass for PC and Xbox Series X, we're happy to confirm that the new RPG will go live on September 5 for players in North America, and September 6 for those in European regions. You'll find Starfield in Game Pass at the following times: 5PM PDT / 8PM EDT, September 5; 1AM BST, 2AM CEST, September 6. 

Get ready for Starfield

While you're waiting for Starfield to release in your time zone, don't forget that all players (regardless of whether you plan on buying the game or playing it through Game Pass) can preload Starfield already on PC and Xbox Series X. 

Additionally, you can also get your head around elements of the character creator now to cut down any indecision that you might have. We have guides to all of the Starfield backgrounds and Starfield skills that you will need to pick between, as well as information on the optional Starfield traits and Starfield religions that you can choose between. 

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Will Sawyer
Guides Writer

Will Sawyer is a guides writer at GamesRadar+ who works with the rest of the guides team to give readers great information and advice on the best items, how to complete a particular challenge, or where to go in some of the biggest video games. Will joined the GameRadar+ team in August 2021 and has written about service titles, including Fortnite, Destiny 2, and Warzone, as well as some of the biggest releases like Halo Infinite, Elden Ring, and God of War Ragnarok.

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