Thinking about starting Star Citizen?
Here's what you need to know first.
A short, independent guide written by a player for new players: which starter pack to pick, whether your PC can handle it, what to do in your first hours, and how to get bonus in-game credits when you sign up.
Create your account with my referral code Read the guideBefore you buy: the essentials
Star Citizen is a space sim in ongoing development (alpha). You buy a game package once, which includes a starter ship; there is no monthly subscription.
Pick the cheapest starter pack
Every ship can be earned in-game later. Start with an entry-level package, learn the game, then decide if you want more.
Watch for Free Fly events
Several times a year you can play for free for a limited time. It's the best way to test performance on your own PC before paying.
Expect bugs
It's an alpha: some sessions are smooth, some are messy. Patience and a sense of humour help a lot.
Play with others
The game shines in multiplayer. Joining an organization (in-game guild) makes the first weeks far easier.
Can your PC run it?
Rough guidance from community experience. Always check the official minimum requirements before buying.
| Component | Minimum (playable) | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | SSD required (100 GB+ free) | NVMe SSD |
| Memory | 16 GB RAM | 32 GB RAM or more |
| CPU | Modern quad-core with AVX support | Recent 6–8 core CPU |
| GPU | DirectX 11 card with 4 GB VRAM | 8 GB VRAM or more |
| OS | Windows 10/11 64-bit | Windows 10/11 64-bit |
Your first hours in the 'verse
A simple path that avoids the most common beginner frustrations.
- Create your account and download the launcherUse the referral code below during sign-up — it cannot be added afterwards.
- Start in a major cityPick a starting location, then take your time learning to walk, use the mobiGlas and call your ship at an ASOP terminal.
- Learn the default controlsMouse and keyboard work fine. Don't buy a HOTAS until you know you like the game.
- Take your first delivery or bounty missionsLow-risk missions teach you quantum travel, landing and navigation while earning your first credits.
- Join a communityAsk questions in the official Spectrum forums or join an organization — veteran players are usually happy to help.
How the referral bonus works
Star Citizen has an official referral programme. Entering a referral code when you create your account gives you bonus in-game credits (UEC) once you buy your first game package. It costs you nothing extra.
What you get
Bonus UEC credited to your account to spend on gear, ships or upgrades. Check the official enlist page for the current amount.
What I get
Full transparency: I'm a player, and I earn referral rewards from the game if you use my code. That's what keeps this guide online.
Only at sign-up
The code must be entered when you create your account. You can't add one to an existing account.
FAQ
Is this the official Star Citizen website?
No. This is an independent fan guide. The button takes you to the official account creation page, where you sign up and pay directly with the game's developer. I never see your details.
Do I pay more if I use a referral code?
No. The price is exactly the same, and you receive bonus credits.
Is there a subscription?
No. You buy a game package once. An optional subscription exists for collectors, but you never need it to play.
Can I try before buying?
Yes, during Free Fly events. Keep an eye on the official news page for upcoming dates.
Ready to take off?
Create your account on the official site with the referral code already filled in.
Sign up with code