Can You Claim Bounty Hunter Ships in Starfield? A Comprehensive Guide
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Yes, absolutely! You can take bounty hunter ships in Starfield. In fact, it’s one of the more rewarding ways to expand your fleet and avoid unnecessary bounties. By focusing on acquiring ships from hostile factions like bounty hunters and the Crimson Fleet, you’re essentially removing a threat from the galaxy while simultaneously upgrading your starfaring capabilities. This article explores the ins and outs of snagging those bounty hunter ships and answers frequently asked questions to help you navigate the world of ship acquisition in Starfield.
Why Steal Bounty Hunter Ships?
The Ethical (and Economical) Choice
Stealing ships from enemy factions like bounty hunters has several advantages. First, it keeps your conscience (and your bounty) clean. Eliminating bounty hunters doesn’t incur a bounty because they are already hostile. Second, you’re acquiring a free ship! Purchasing new ships can be extremely costly, especially early in the game. Claiming a bounty hunter vessel offers a valuable upgrade without draining your hard-earned credits. Finally, it diversifies your fleet. Bounty hunter ships often come with unique features and weapon configurations, adding tactical flexibility to your space travels.
Practical Considerations
Before you start your career as a ship thief, there are a few crucial things to consider:
- Piloting Skill: You need the appropriate Piloting skill rank to fly larger, more powerful ships. Class B and Class C ships require higher ranks in the Piloting skill.
- Ship Registration: Stolen ships are considered contraband until they are registered. Visit a ship technician at any major spaceport to register your stolen vessel. This clears the ship’s “stolen” status, preventing unwanted attention from security forces.
- Ship Customization: Once registered, you can fully customize your stolen ship at any ship services technician. This includes upgrading weapons, engines, shields, and even changing the ship’s name.
- Crew Capacity: Consider that if you switch ships, it will automatically unassign crew member.
How to Acquire Bounty Hunter Ships
The Boarding Process
- Disable the Enemy Ship: The most effective method is to disable the target ship’s engines using an Electro-Magnetic (EM) weapon. This prevents the ship from warping away and allows you to dock. The Star Eagle, obtainable as a reward from the Freestar Rangers questline, comes equipped with an EM weapon, making it an excellent early-game option for ship theft.
- Docking: Once the engines are disabled, target the enemy ship and initiate the docking sequence. The option to dock will appear if you are close enough.
- Eliminate the Crew: Board the ship and eliminate all hostiles. Be prepared for a firefight, as bounty hunter crews are typically well-armed.
- Take Command: Once the crew is eliminated, head to the cockpit and take control of the ship.
Finding Landing Ships
Another method for acquiring ships from bounty hunters involves locating landing sites. When exploring planets, keep an eye out for areas marked as “landing zones.” Bounty hunters, Ecliptic Mercenaries, and other hostile factions frequently land at these sites. If you can enter their ship, and you meet the piloting skill requirements, you can steal it. However, be prepared for a fight, as the crew will likely be guarding the ship.
F.A.Q. – Bounty Hunter Ships
Can I steal any ship I find in Starfield?
No, not every ship is up for grabs. You can’t steal ships marked as “inaccessible” or those tied to specific quests that prevent commandeering. Also, the Starborn ship cannot be stolen.
What skills do I need to steal ships?
The Piloting skill is essential for flying higher class ships. Invest in this skill early to unlock the ability to pilot Class B and Class C ships.
How do I register a stolen ship?
Visit a ship technician at any major spaceport and ask to view and modify your ships. Select the stolen ship and choose the “Register” option. This will cost credits, but it will remove the ship’s “stolen” status.
What happens to my old ship when I steal a new one?
Your old ship will be automatically stored. You can access it later by visiting a ship technician and selecting it from your list of owned ships. You can own up to ten ships at a time.
Can I customize a stolen ship?
Yes! Once you’ve registered the ship, you can customize it at any ship services technician.
How do I find ship technicians?
Ship technicians are typically located near the landing pads in populated areas like New Atlantis, Akila City, and Neon.
Are there any free ships in Starfield?
Yes, there are several free ships you can acquire through quests and activities. These include the Frontier, the Razorleaf, the Star Eagle, and the UC Prison Shuttle.
What is the best early-game ship to steal?
The Star Eagle, earned from the Freestar Rangers questline, is an excellent early-game ship due to its EM weapon and large cargo capacity.
Can I join the Crimson Fleet and become a pirate?
Yes, you can join the Crimson Fleet by getting caught committing crimes in UC space or by initiating their questline. Joining them allows you to embrace a pirate lifestyle.
How do I get arrested in UC space?
Commit a crime, such as stealing or smuggling contraband, in a United Colonies-controlled system. Security forces will apprehend you, giving you the option to serve your time or join the Crimson Fleet undercover.
Can I romance companions in Starfield?
Yes, you can romance several companions in Starfield. Building relationships with companions can unlock unique quests and benefits.
Can I join all the factions in Starfield?
Yes, you can join all the major factions in Starfield without penalty. Your actions within one faction may affect your standing with others, but there are typically no restrictions on joining multiple factions.
What is the best way to disable an enemy ship?
Using an EM weapon to disable the target ship’s engines. It’s the most efficient method for boarding.
Can I sell stolen ships?
Yes, you can sell stolen ships after you register them. However, you’ll usually get less credits for a stolen ship than you would for a ship you legitimately purchased.
Is there a limit to the number of ships I can own?
Yes, you can own a maximum of ten ships in Starfield.
In conclusion, acquiring bounty hunter ships in Starfield is a viable and rewarding strategy. By focusing on enemy factions and utilizing the tips and tricks outlined above, you can build a formidable fleet without breaking the bank. Remember to invest in your Piloting skill, register your stolen ships, and customize them to your liking. Good luck, and happy hunting! For more information on games and learning, visit the GamesLearningSociety.org website.