The closer Starfield's release gets, the more gamers have learned about what to expect from Bethesda's newest adventure title. In classic Bethesda fashion, there will be a vast variety of companions in Starfield to choose from, each with their own unique abilities and skills to help players traverse the stars. However, one of the most intriguing companions that have been seen so far is the robot Vasco. As of now, this has been the only robotic companion to be revealed, and the story behind his name could have some interesting origins and implications for his role.
With an impending release date of September 6 looming in the distance, Starfield is now on the Steam Top Sellers list thanks to building anticipation and an impressive in-depth preview that took place after this summer's Xbox Showcase. Many eager gamers are ready to journey through different planetary systems and worlds, but one of the most difficult choices in Starfield might end up being who players decide to choose as their companions. If Vasco's name is any indication, he may be the best choice overall. Not only is Vasco one of the coolest looking options for a companion, but he could potentially be one of the most helpful when it comes to exploring.
The Possible Origins of Vasco's Name
For those who are well-versed in history, Vasco's name may have been an obvious reference to a historic explorer, but some may not know that his name seems to be a direct homage to Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. Known for being the first European to reach India by sea, Vasco da Gama is highly likely to be the main inspiration behind the name of Starfield's delightful robot partner. Out of all the companions to choose from in Starfield, Vasco is the most unique to be revealed so far, and the inspiration behind his name is quite fitting for a robotic explorer.
While Vasco da Gama explored by way of water, Starfield's Vasco will be the Portuguese explorer's futuristic counterpart, staying by players' sides as they discover incredible worlds and planets that can be found in the game's various galaxies. Bethesda has promised an impressive number of planets in Starfield that players will be able to explore, and traveling with the right companion can help make the exploration even more fun.
The route that Vasco de Gama took connected the Atlantic and Indian oceans, opening a completely new way to travel that is considered a huge moment in world history. When it comes to Starfield, using Vasco as a companion may be incredibly helpful in traveling to each planet. There hasn't been any solid information revealed about what Vasco's skills and abilities are, but if his name is any hint to players, navigation may be one of Vasco's highest ranked skills. Depending on which Starfield companion a player chooses, some will have better skills that others when it comes to certain subjects, and it just seems natural to give Vasco great navigation abilities.
There still remains a lot to be discovered about Starfield that likely won't be uncovered until the game's launch, so only time will tell if Vasco is actually a navigation expert. With there already being confirmation of a Starfield DLC that will possibly contain even more worlds to discover, it will be highly beneficial to focus on finding a companion who is not only a capable partner but a great explorer. If Vasco isn't skilled at navigation, the name could possibly feel like a wasted opportunity to take this tribute to its full potential, but more answers about one of Starfield's most interesting companions will finally come to light when the game releases on September 6.
Starfield launches September 6 on PC and Xbox Series X/S.