If you are brand new
Pick a basic game package after testing. A modest starter is enough to learn contracts, travel, landing, inventory, and early money-making.
Starter package decision guide
Best First Ship in Star Citizen
The best first ship is usually the one that keeps your first purchase small. Use the prefilled referral link before account creation, test the game, then pick a starter package only if you actually want to play.
Start smallLearn before upgrading
Test firstFree Fly when available
Referral ready50,000 UEC signup bonus
Choose Safely
If you like combat
Do not overbuy on day one. Try basic ship combat first, then decide whether an upgrade makes the game more fun for you.
If you like hauling or industry
Start by learning delivery, mining, salvage, or cargo loops in-game. Bigger ships add complexity and are not required for a first week.
Paid referral credit requires qualifying RSI spend, but no one should spend money just to create a referral. Buy only if you want to play.
Before You Buy
Create the account with the referral attached
Open RSI through the direct link and confirm STAR-SNP2-VKS9 before finishing signup.
Use Free Fly when it is active
Free Fly events are the cleanest way to test performance, controls, and the current game state before buying a package.
Buy the game package, not the dream fleet
A starter package gets you into the universe. You can earn ships in-game and upgrade later if you actually enjoy the loop.
Keep the signup bonus attached
Use the prefilled RSI link first, then make your ship decision calmly.