To play Starfield early on Steam, you need to purchase the Starfield Premium Edition (digital or physical), which grants you up to five days of early access before the official launch date. The Standard Edition or Game Pass version does not include early access

. Here is how to play Starfield early on Steam:

• Buy the Premium Edition of Starfield on Steam before the release date.
• Pre-load the game so it is ready to play once early access unlocks.
• Early access typically starts up to five days before the official launch (for Starfield, that was around September 1, with the full launch on September 6).
• Make sure Steam is fully closed and restarted if you have issues launching the game during early access

• You do not need a constant internet connection to play once the game is installed, but Steam validation is required initially

In summary, to play Starfield early on Steam, purchase the Premium Edition, pre-load the game, and launch it during the early access window which begins several days before the official release