Mastering Starfield's controls and understanding its UI are crucial for efficient exploration and combat. The game offers a robust control scheme for both keyboard/mouse and gamepad. Familiarize yourself with these early on.
Key PC Controls:
- W, A, S, D: Movement
- Spacebar: Jump / Boost Pack (hold)
- Left Shift: Sprint
- Left Mouse Button: Fire Weapon / Interact
- Right Mouse Button: Aim Down Sights / Power Attack (Melee)
- E: Interact / Loot
- R: Reload
- F: Flashlight
- Tab: Scanner / Exit Menus
- I: Inventory
- J: Journal
- K: Skills
- M: Map
- P: Ship Menu
- Q: Quick-Key Menu
Key UI Elements:
- Compass: Displays objectives, points of interest, and enemy locations.
- Health Bar: Your current health. Depletes upon taking damage.
- Oxygen Bar: Your stamina. Depletes when sprinting, jumping, or using boost pack. Replenishes when standing still or walking.
- XP Bar: Shows progress towards your next level.
- Active Effects: Icons indicating status effects (positive or negative).
- Mission Tracker: Displays your current active quest objectives.
- Scanner: A vital tool for identifying resources, flora, fauna, and points of interest. Use it frequently!
The UI is designed to be intuitive but can be overwhelming initially due to the sheer amount of information. Take your time to explore each menu tab (Inventory, Skills, Map, Ship, Journal) to understand its function.