Starting in Starfield can be overwhelming. Here are some crucial tips and explanations of core mechanics to help you navigate the early game and beyond.
Explore Everything:
Starfield is designed for exploration. Use your scanner frequently to identify resources, hidden caches, and points of interest. Don't be afraid to deviate from your main objective to investigate anomalies.
Manage Your Inventory:
Weight limits are a real concern. Prioritize what you carry. Sell junk items, store excess resources in your ship's cargo hold, or invest in the 'Weight Lifting' skill. Companions can also carry items for you.
Understand Combat:
Combat involves a mix of ranged weapons, melee, and grenades. Utilize cover, aim for critical spots (headshots), and manage your boost pack for tactical maneuvers. Different enemy types have varying resistances, so diversify your weapon loadout.
Resource Management & Crafting:
Resources are vital for crafting, research, and outpost building. Collect everything you can, but focus on what you need for your current goals. The Research Lab and Crafting Benches (Weapon Workbench, Armor Workbench, Pharmaceutical Lab, Cooking Station) are found on your ship and in most settlements.
Ship Combat & Upgrades:
Your ship is your home and primary mode of transport. Learn its controls for space combat. Power management is key: allocate power to shields, engines, and weapons as needed. Upgrade your ship's components (weapons, shields, engines, cargo) at Ship Services Technicians in spaceports.
Boost Pack Training:
The boost pack is an invaluable tool for traversal and combat. Invest in the 'Boost Pack Training' skill early to unlock advanced maneuvers. It allows you to reach higher areas, cross gaps, and evade enemy fire.
Talk to Everyone:
Many side quests, companion opportunities, and lore details are discovered by talking to NPCs. Look for characters with unique dialogue prompts.
Save Often:
Starfield is a Bethesda game. Save frequently, especially before making major decisions or entering new areas. Use both quick saves and hard saves.