Can You Get a Sword in Starfield? A Melee Master’s Guide

The simple answer is a resounding yes, you absolutely can get a sword in Starfield. Bethesda’s expansive RPG offers a variety of melee weapons, including several bladed options for players who prefer a more hands-on approach to combat. While firearms dominate much of the gameplay, skilled players can craft devastating melee builds, turning themselves into close-quarters combat specialists. Swords in Starfield aren’t just a novelty; they’re a viable and often stylish way to carve a path through the Settled Systems.

Diving Deep into Starfield’s Melee Arsenal

While not as extensive as the gun selection, the melee weapon category in Starfield holds some exciting treasures. These aren’t just reskinned knives; each weapon possesses unique stats, appearances, and potential, allowing for diverse combat styles. You’ll find that the effectiveness of melee combat scales with your skill investments and gear.

Notable Swords in Starfield

Let’s explore some of the notable bladed weapons you can acquire:

• Wakizashi: A sleek and deadly katana-like weapon that’s an absolute must-have for any sword enthusiast. Known for its speed and decent damage, the Wakizashi can be purchased or obtained through specific faction quests. It makes a great weapon early on.

• Syndicate Enforcer: This unique Wakizashi variant is a prize for those who delve into the Ebbside Strikers faction in Neon. Its unique properties make it a coveted item for melee builds. With the right skills, it can be a game-changer.

• Va’Ruun Painblade: As the melee weapon of choice for the House of Va’Ruun, this blade is both iconic and potent. You can buy it from vendors in locations like The Key or loot it from the corpses of high-level Crimson Fleet pirates and Va’Ruun Zealots.

• The Last Priest: Considered by many to be the best melee weapon in the game, The Last Priest is a devastating weapon that excels at dealing physical damage. Capable of dealing significant physical damage, it represents a late-game goal for dedicated melee fighters.

Beyond Swords: Other Melee Options

Of course, swords aren’t the only melee weapons available. Don’t overlook other options like axes, knives, and even bare fists!

• Combat Knife: The basic standard for melee combat in Starfield. It’s useful if you are in a tight situation early on.

• Axe: A slower but more powerful melee weapon, ideal for dishing out heavy damage.

Optimizing Your Melee Build in Starfield

Simply acquiring a sword isn’t enough. To truly excel in melee combat, you need to invest in specific skills and choose the right gear. This makes a difference between being a simple wanderer, and becoming a melee master.

Essential Skills for Melee Combat

• Martial Arts: Crucial for increasing unarmed damage, but its ranks also unlock powerful melee attack modifiers like staggering opponents and even disarming them.

• Stealth: Melee characters often benefit from stealth, allowing them to close the distance and strike from the shadows.

• Weight Lifting: Carrying capacity is essential, especially if you favor heavier melee weapons and armor.

• Armor Penetration: This skill will allow you to make quick work of your enemies in Starfield.

• Boost Pack Training: Essential for maneuverability, allowing you to close the distance quickly or evade enemy attacks.

Gear and Armor Choices

• Spacesuits with Melee Enhancements: Look for spacesuits and helmets with perks that boost melee damage or increase movement speed.

• Consumables: Don’t forget to utilize consumables that temporarily boost your strength, speed, or damage resistance.

Where to Find Swords and Other Melee Weapons

Scouting the Settled Systems can be a fun part of the game. Swords and other melee weapons can be found in various locations, including:

• Merchants: Visit weapon vendors in major cities like Neon, Akila City, and New Atlantis.

• Faction Quests: Certain faction questlines, such as those involving the Ebbside Strikers or House of Va’Ruun, offer unique melee weapon rewards.

• Looting Enemies: Defeated enemies, especially those affiliated with factions known for melee combat, often carry swords or other bladed weapons.

• Containers and Chests: Explore abandoned facilities, pirate bases, and other points of interest, searching for chests and containers that may contain valuable weapons.

Final Thoughts

While Starfield may be primarily known for its vast array of firearms, the inclusion of melee weapons, particularly swords, adds another layer of depth to the combat system. With the right skills, gear, and strategy, you can become a formidable melee warrior, capable of taking on even the toughest enemies in close-quarters combat. So, pick up that Wakizashi, hone your skills, and prepare to carve your legend across the stars. And remember, learning is a journey, often enhanced by interactive experiences! Check out the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org for more on the power of games in education.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Swords in Starfield

1. Are melee weapons viable in Starfield’s endgame?

   Yes, with the right build and gear, melee weapons can be highly effective in the endgame. Skills like Martial Arts and Stealth, combined with a powerful weapon like The Last Priest, can make you a force to be reckoned with.

2. Where can I buy the Syndicate Enforcer?

   The Syndicate Enforcer is obtained by joining the Ebbside Strikers faction in Neon and purchasing it from the vendor, Hatchet, associated with them.

3. Is there a katana in Starfield?

   While not explicitly called a katana, the Wakizashi is the closest equivalent and functions similarly.

4. Can you dual wield swords in Starfield?

   No, Starfield does not support dual wielding of any weapons. You can only equip one weapon at a time.

5. What is the best way to find rare melee weapons?

   Focus on completing faction quests, exploring high-level areas, and looting enemies associated with factions known for melee combat, such as the House of Va’Ruun or Crimson Fleet.

6. Do melee weapons benefit from weapon mods?

   While not all melee weapons can be modded, some may have limited modding options to enhance their damage or handling.

7. What skills should I prioritize for a melee build?

   Prioritize skills like Martial Arts, Stealth, Weight Lifting, and skills that enhance your damage output and survivability.

8. Are there any unique melee weapon effects?

   Some unique melee weapons, like the Syndicate Enforcer, may have special effects or properties that set them apart from standard weapons.

9. How does armor affect melee combat?

   Armor provides damage resistance, reducing the amount of damage you take from enemy attacks. Look for armor with perks that specifically enhance melee combat.

10. Can I use melee weapons in zero-gravity environments?

    Yes, melee weapons can be used in zero-gravity environments, but maneuverability may be more challenging.

11. Are there any melee-focused companions?

    While companions can use melee weapons, none are specifically designed or optimized for melee combat.

12. How do I improve my chances of finding better melee weapons?

    Level up, explore high-level areas, and increase your scavenging skills to improve your chances of finding rare and powerful melee weapons.

13. Can you craft melee weapons in Starfield?

    As of right now, you cannot craft your own melee weapons. You can only find or purchase them in Starfield.

14. What is the strongest single melee attack in Starfield?

    With the right skills and gear, a fully charged power attack with a powerful weapon like The Last Priest, combined with a critical hit, can deliver the strongest single melee attack.

15. Where can I find the Va’Ruun Painblade?

    The Va’ruun Painblade can be bought from a vendor in The Key or found on high level Crimson Fleet pirate corpses, as well as Va’Ruun Zealot corpses.