Ultimate Tips & Guides for Starfield

Starfield is a groundbreaking space exploration RPG developed by Bethesda Game Studios. Set in the expansive universe of the Settled Systems, the game offers players the freedom to explore planets, engage in space combat, and uncover the mysteries of the cosmos. Whether you're a veteran of Bethesda’s open-world RPGs or new to the studio's style of gameplay, Starfield presents unique challenges that require both strategic thinking and creativity. In this guide, we’ll provide tips and strategies to help you navigate the universe, master its systems, and make the most of your journey across the stars.

1. Understanding the Core Mechanics

Before you embark on your epic spacefaring adventure, it’s important to grasp the basic mechanics of Starfield. Unlike traditional RPGs, Starfield features complex systems that require careful attention, especially in its resource management, ship navigation, and combat.

Space Exploration Basics

The game is set in a massive universe divided into various star systems. You will start by customizing your character and choosing your background. Once you're in space, you’ll need to master spaceflight controls, from piloting your ship to landing on planets. Pay attention to the navigation interface, as it's essential for plotting routes and managing resources like fuel and oxygen.

Resources and Inventory Management

Your journey in Starfield will require you to manage several important resources, such as oxygen, fuel, and materials. Resources can be found while exploring planets or through trade and scavenging. Make sure to regularly check your inventory and stock up on consumables, as running low on fuel or oxygen in deep space can be disastrous.

2. Character Customization and Perks

Character customization in Starfield allows you to tailor your skills and abilities to suit your preferred playstyle. Whether you prefer combat, exploration, or crafting, choosing the right perks and skills can make a huge difference in your journey.

Choosing Your Background and Traits

At the start of the game, you'll choose a background, which provides certain benefits. For example, a “Bounty Hunter” background might offer you combat-oriented perks, while “Scientist” provides more technological and research abilities. Take your time to select a background that aligns with your intended playstyle.

Skills and Perk System

Starfield features a comprehensive skill system, allowing you to specialize in various areas such as combat, piloting, and crafting. As you level up, you'll gain skill points that can be used to unlock powerful abilities. Some skills unlock new crafting options, while others improve your combat effectiveness. Focus on one or two skill trees to specialize in, but be sure to level up the basic necessities like health and stamina first.

3. Exploring the Universe: Planets, Moons, and Locations

Starfield boasts a vast and diverse universe with over 1,000 planets to explore. While some planets are barren wastelands, others are teeming with resources, wildlife, and hidden secrets. Here's how to get the most out of your exploration.

Planetary Exploration

Each planet in Starfield offers unique opportunities. Some planets may require special gear or skills to explore, while others might have hazardous environments that will require you to manage your suit’s oxygen levels or find shelter from extreme conditions. As you land, gather resources like minerals, water, and fuel. You can also scan for anomalies, which often lead to valuable discoveries.

Key Locations and Points of Interest

In addition to planetary exploration, the game features a variety of locations such as abandoned space stations, research outposts, and ancient ruins. These sites can contain valuable loot, lore, and sometimes even new quests or factions to interact with. Make sure to mark key locations on your map and regularly visit them to uncover all that the universe has to offer.

4. Ship Building and Upgrades

One of the standout features of Starfield is the ability to customize and upgrade your own spaceship. The ship serves as both your mode of travel and your primary combat vehicle. Here are some tips on how to build and upgrade the perfect ship for your adventures.

Ship Customization Basics

At the beginning of the game, you'll get a basic ship, but as you progress, you can upgrade and customize it. This involves choosing parts for the hull, engine, cockpit, and weapons. Different parts affect your ship’s speed, maneuverability, cargo capacity, and firepower, so it’s essential to balance these factors based on your playstyle.

Weapons, Shields, and Defenses

Combat in Starfield can be intense, especially when you encounter enemy ships or hostile space stations. Make sure to equip your ship with the best weapons (lasers, missile launchers, etc.), as well as powerful shields and armor. Upgrading your ship’s defenses can mean the difference between life and death in a firefight.

5. Combat: Space and Ground Battles

Both space and ground combat are core aspects of Starfield, requiring different strategies and equipment. Here’s how to excel in both types of combat.

Space Combat Tips

In space, combat can be fast-paced and chaotic. Keep your distance from enemy ships, and use your weapons strategically. Learn how to manage your ship's energy levels, switching between speed boosts, shields, and weapon power for maximum effectiveness. Always aim for the weak points on enemy ships to maximize damage.

Ground Combat Tactics

When you land on planets or stations, you’ll often engage in ground combat. Starfield offers a mix of gunplay, stealth, and tactical combat. Equip a variety of weapons, from rifles to grenades, and make use of cover during firefights. Don’t forget to use your jetpack for mobility, and experiment with different combat styles to find what works best for you.

6. Crafting and Resource Management

Crafting is essential for survival and progression in Starfield. From building weapons to upgrading your spacesuit, crafting will play a major role throughout your journey.

Gathering Materials

The game features a deep resource system, where you must gather materials from planets, space stations, and other sources. Keep a variety of materials in your inventory, such as metals, electronics, and chemicals, as you will need them for crafting and upgrading equipment.

Crafting Items and Gear

Once you’ve gathered resources, you can craft new weapons, suits, and upgrades at crafting stations. Some items will require a certain level of skill or research to create, so it’s important to continually upgrade your crafting abilities. You’ll also need to craft consumables like medkits and ammunition to stay prepared for combat.

7. Engaging with Factions and NPCs

In Starfield, there are numerous factions vying for control, and you’ll encounter a variety of NPCs with their own agendas. Your interactions with these factions can influence your story and the game’s outcome.

Joining Factions

You can join several factions, each with its own quests, storylines, and benefits. For example, the United Colonies is focused on military power and politics, while the Freestar Collective is centered around individual freedom. Each faction offers unique rewards and abilities, so choose wisely based on your preferred playstyle.

NPC Dialogue and Relationships

Engaging with NPCs is vital to progressing in the game. You can build relationships with various characters, gaining access to side quests, lore, and valuable items. Be mindful of your choices, as certain actions can influence your relationships with factions and NPCs, leading to different outcomes.

8. Navigating the Main Quest and Side Missions

While the main quest in Starfield is compelling, there are also plenty of side missions to keep you occupied. Here’s how to balance both.

Pursuing the Main Quest

The main story in Starfield revolves around uncovering the secrets of the universe, including ancient artifacts and powerful technologies. It’s a deep and engaging narrative, but don’t rush through it. Many of the game's most interesting lore and character moments are revealed through exploration and side quests.

Side Missions and Exploration

In addition to the main quest, there are countless side missions that involve trading, bounty hunting, or exploring abandoned locations. Completing these missions can yield valuable rewards, including new equipment and ship upgrades. Be sure to take your time and explore the world around you, as some of the best experiences come from side content.

9. Endgame Strategies: What to Do After the Main Story

Once you've completed the main quest, there's still a vast universe to explore. Here are some tips for making the most of the post-game content.

Exploring Uncharted Regions

Post-game, you’ll have access to a multitude of unexplored regions and hidden locations. You can continue to upgrade your ship, join new factions, or even start a new playthrough with different choices. The universe of Starfield is truly vast, and there’s no shortage of content to uncover.

Unlocking New Ships and Gear

After the main story, you’ll have the opportunity to unlock more powerful ships, weapons, and equipment. Make sure to continue upgrading your gear and customize your ships to handle more difficult challenges. New quests, enemies, and resources will keep you occupied for many hours after the credits roll.

10. Final Thoughts and Best Practices

As you embark on your journey through the stars, there are a few final tips to keep in mind.

Stay Organized

Given the sheer scale of Starfield, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by all the systems at play. Stay organized by regularly checking your inventory, marking important locations on your map, and keeping an eye on your mission log. This will help ensure you don’t miss anything important.

Experiment and Have Fun

Starfield is a game of discovery, and the best way to enjoy it is by experimenting. Whether it’s trying out different ship designs or approaching missions in unique ways, the game rewards creativity. Don’t be afraid to take risks and explore the unknown.

Conclusion

Starfield is a rich and expansive space RPG that offers a unique blend of exploration, combat, and storytelling. Whether you’re discovering new planets, crafting powerful gear, or engaging in deep space battles, the universe is full of opportunities for those willing to venture forth. By following the tips in this guide, you’ll be better prepared to navigate the complexities of the game and make the most of your spacefaring adventure. From mastering ship customization to uncovering hidden factions, Starfield is a game that will keep you coming back for more.