Star Citizen Beginner Guide
Pick your path. Get your first good session. Buy only if it makes sense.
Use referral code to start with 50,000 UEC.
Optional. No cost. Doesn’t change your price — it just adds the signup bonus.
Quick answer
- Not sure if you should buy? Start with Free Fly → or take the 2‑minute decision test →.
- Buying anyway? Pick a starter pack without wasting money → (upgrade later only if you keep playing).
- Game runs badly? Do the 10‑minute performance fix → before judging the game.
- Need credits fast? Use a beginner-proof money loop → (safe first, scaling second).
New to the terms? Beginner glossary.
Pick your path (60‑second decision)
Don’t start random. Choose the path that matches where you are right now — then follow the next link and execute.
| Your situation | Do this now | Next page | Common mistake | Fix |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I haven’t bought yet | Try the game first (avoid overwhelm) | Free Fly guide → | Judging the game from one bad session | Run the first‑session route + fix performance first |
| I’m deciding whether to buy | Use a clear yes/no checklist | Should you buy? → | Buying extra ships early | Start minimum → upgrade later if you keep playing |
| I’m ready to buy | Choose the right starter pack once | Starter packs → | Picking based on looks only | Pick by your first loop (combat / delivery / mining) |
| It stutters / crashes | Apply the high-impact fixes | Performance guide → | Tweaking 20 settings at once | Change 1 cluster → retest in the same location |
| I need credits | Run a safe loop 2–3 times | Make money fast → | Trading “all-in” too early | Start small → scale only after repeatable wins |
First 60 minutes (beginner-proof route)
Your goal is simple: one clean loop you can repeat. This route minimizes confusion and maximizes “okay, I get it now.”
| Step | Do | Why | If you get stuck |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Spawn and set your home location | Reduces friction on your next login | Follow station signage + elevators (stay in the main flow) |
| 2 | Claim your ship at the ASOP terminal | Gets you moving fast | If the UI bugs out: relog once |
| 3 | Run a simple courier/delivery contract | Teaches travel + navigation with low risk | Use the 10‑minute money route → |
| 4 | Get your first payout and repeat 1–2 times | Builds confidence and routine | If performance ruins it: do the 10‑minute fix → |
| 5 | Log out safely (don’t gamble your progress) | Protects your first session experience | Keep gear cheap until the loop is stable |
Verify
You should complete one full contract loop in your first session. If you can’t, fix performance first — then retry the same route.
Beginner Guides
Go deeper (choose one next step)
Use these pages as specialized tools. Pick one, execute, then come back.
Common beginner mistakes (and the exact fix)
| Mistake | What happens | Fix (exact) | Next step |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trying to learn everything at once | Overwhelm, random choices, slow progress | Pick one loop (delivery or simple bounty) and repeat it 2–3 times | Money loop guide → |
| Judging the game while it stutters | Bad first impression, crashes, wasted time | Apply the 10‑minute performance fixes before you evaluate | Performance guide → |
| Buying extra ships early | Regret spend, still no clear playstyle | Start with one starter pack; upgrade only after consistent play | Starter packs → |
| Skipping Free Fly structure | Testing the wrong things, missing the fun | Use the Free Fly checklist + first session plan | Free Fly guide → |
| Missing the signup bonus window | No free starting credits | Enter a referral code during account creation | Create account + claim bonus → |
FAQ
Can I try Star Citizen without buying?
Yes. Use Free Fly → to test the game first and follow a structured first session plan.
What’s the smartest first thing to do in-game?
Run one simple contract loop (delivery/courier) and repeat it 2–3 times. It teaches travel, UI, and pays you without heavy risk.
Do I need a strong PC?
You need a solid baseline and the right settings. If the game stutters, fix performance first: Performance guide →
What starter pack should I buy?
Pick a pack that matches your first loop and buy the minimum. Use this: Starter packs guide →
Is the referral code mandatory?
No. It’s optional and doesn’t change your price. If you want the free starting credits, enter it during signup: how it works →
Can I use these guides during Free Fly?
Yes. The same first-session route and money loops work — you’re just testing before buying.
How do I make money fast as a beginner?
Start with safe delivery loops, then scale into bounties or mining. Full playbooks here: Make money fast →
What should I avoid in my first hours?
Avoid all-in trading, expensive gear runs, and changing 20 settings at once. Build one repeatable loop first.
I’m overwhelmed. What’s the simplest route?
Follow the First 60 minutes route on this page and ignore everything else until you complete one full loop.
Where do I enter the referral code?
On the RSI signup page during account creation. Quick guide: Where to paste it →