*Starfield* is Bethesda’s first new IP in decades, combining their signature RPG style with space exploration, combat, and crafting. With a vast universe to explore and endless possibilities, it can be overwhelming for newcomers. This guide will help you navigate the stars, improve your gameplay, and make the most out of your interstellar journey.

1. Understanding the Basics: Space Travel and Exploration

Before you begin your adventure, it’s crucial to understand the basics of space travel in *Starfield*. The game’s open-world system is vast, and you can travel between different planets and space stations. Familiarize yourself with the navigation controls, including how to use the star map, travel to different systems, and land on planets.

Using the Ship

Your ship is your primary mode of transportation. Learn how to manage fuel, navigate through gravity wells, and maintain your ship’s health. You’ll also need to customize your ship for both efficiency and combat readiness, especially when entering hostile areas.

2. Character Creation: Building Your Explorer

In *Starfield*, your character’s skills and attributes greatly influence your experience. Whether you focus on combat, crafting, or diplomacy will define your playstyle. When creating your character, take your time to choose the right background and traits that align with your exploration goals.

Skills and Perks

Skills are essential for progressing in *Starfield*. Each skill has its own specialization, such as Piloting, Combat, Engineering, and Scientific. Choose skills that complement your playstyle, whether you’re an explorer, a scientist, or a bounty hunter.

Traits and Factions

Your traits can add unique bonuses or challenges to your journey. You can also align with factions, each offering different quests and opportunities for advancement. These choices will significantly affect your relationships with other NPCs and your role in the game’s larger narrative.

3. Combat: Engaging in Space and Ground Battles

Combat in *Starfield* occurs both in space and on planets. You’ll need to master various weapons, tactics, and strategies to survive. From dogfights in space to shootouts on foreign planets, mastering combat is essential for progression.

Space Combat

In space, combat is a combination of strategic maneuvers and weapon management. Use your ship’s thrusters to dodge enemy fire and position yourself for precision shots. Equip different weapons like lasers, missiles, and turrets to handle various types of opponents.

Ground Combat

Once you land on a planet, combat shifts to ground-based fighting. Equip yourself with rifles, grenades, and armor. Remember to use cover effectively and upgrade your gear for better protection and firepower.

4. Resources and Crafting: Enhancing Your Gear

In *Starfield*, resources are essential for crafting, upgrading, and surviving. From mining rare minerals to scavenging alien artifacts, gathering materials will allow you to craft powerful items and customize your ship and weapons.

Mining and Gathering

Each planet offers different resources, from basic metals to rare minerals. Learn to scan the environment for resources and mine them efficiently. Certain planets will yield valuable materials that can be sold or used in crafting.

Crafting Systems

Crafting is vital to enhancing your gear. Upgrade your weapons, armor, and ship using the materials you gather. You can also craft consumables like medkits and fuel, which are essential for long space travels.

5. Managing Your Crew: Building a Team

While you can explore *Starfield* solo, you’ll encounter various NPCs who can join your crew. These crew members each have their own skills and backstories, and they can assist you in combat, provide additional quests, or offer insights into the game’s narrative.

Recruiting Crew Members

Different crew members will join you depending on your interactions, choices, and the factions you align with. Build a well-rounded crew that complements your playstyle. Some crew members are better suited for combat, while others may specialize in engineering or diplomacy.

Managing Crew Morale

Your crew’s morale can influence their performance and loyalty. Ensure that you maintain a good relationship with them by addressing their personal missions and giving them the resources they need. A happy crew is a loyal crew.

6. The Economy: Trading and Earning Credits

Credits are the currency in *Starfield*, and managing them efficiently is key to progressing in the game. You can earn credits by completing missions, trading goods, or engaging in piracy. Use your earnings wisely to upgrade your ship, buy new gear, or hire crew members.

Trading and Bartering

Learn the ins and outs of the economy by trading goods with NPCs and space stations. Buy low, sell high, and watch out for fluctuations in the market. Certain rare items can be sold for a significant profit, but always make sure to have enough supplies for your travels.

Mission Rewards

Completing missions, whether they’re for factions or independent contractors, will reward you with credits and valuable items. Prioritize high-reward missions, especially ones that align with your current goals.

7. Exploration: Discovering New Planets and Systems

The universe in *Starfield* is vast, and part of the fun is discovering new planets, systems, and anomalies. As you explore, you’ll encounter a variety of environments, from barren moons to lush, thriving planets.

Scanning Planets

Use your scanner to assess planets and identify points of interest. Look for resources, hidden locations, and anomalies that might provide new quests or valuable loot.

Space Anomalies

Space anomalies are unique phenomena that can offer special rewards or challenges. These anomalies often contain rare artifacts, but they may also be guarded by powerful enemies. Approach them with caution, and be prepared for anything.

8. Side Quests: Delving Deeper Into the Lore

Side quests in *Starfield* are not just distractions; they offer valuable rewards and deeper insights into the game’s lore. These quests can help you uncover hidden stories, unlock powerful items, and gain experience.

Faction Quests

Each faction has its own set of quests, each offering unique rewards and narrative opportunities. Completing faction missions will allow you to align with their goals, gaining access to special equipment and perks.

Personalized Side Missions

Some crew members will offer personal side quests, which can deepen your relationship with them and provide additional lore about the *Starfield* universe. These missions often lead to unique rewards or events.

9. Combat Strategy: Facing Off Against Space Pirates and Hostile Forces

Hostile forces, including space pirates, mercenaries, and alien creatures, will challenge you throughout the game. Understanding how to combat these foes is essential to surviving in *Starfield*.

Space Pirate Tactics

When dealing with space pirates, focus on evasive maneuvers and use powerful weapons to disable their ships. Targeting their engines or shields first will give you the upper hand in combat.

Ground Combat with Hostile Forces

On the ground, hostile forces can be formidable. Use cover and grenades to handle enemies strategically, and remember to upgrade your weapons for more effective combat. Keep your distance when facing ranged enemies, and use melee attacks for close-quarters combat.

10. Final Tips: Surviving the Void

Space exploration is full of challenges, and *Starfield* provides numerous opportunities to make decisions that impact your journey. From dealing with hostile factions to managing your ship’s resources, these final tips will help you navigate the stars effectively.

Stay Prepared

Always be prepared for unexpected challenges. Stock up on fuel, ammunition, and medical supplies before embarking on long journeys. Having a fully stocked inventory can make the difference between survival and failure.

Adapt to Change

As you progress, the universe will change. New challenges and factions will arise, and your decisions will have lasting consequences. Stay adaptable and flexible, and don’t be afraid to revisit areas you’ve already explored with new tools and upgrades.

Conclusion

*Starfield* offers a vast and thrilling space exploration experience, combining deep RPG elements with the excitement of interstellar adventure. By following these tips and guides, you’ll be better prepared to conquer the stars, build your crew, and unlock the many secrets the universe has to offer. Safe travels, and may your journey be legendary!