How to Join the Crimson Fleet Without SysDef in Starfield
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Many aspiring spacefarers in Starfield find themselves drawn to the allure of the Crimson Fleet, a notorious pirate faction. While the most common route involves working as a double agent for UC SysDef, it’s absolutely possible – and arguably more authentic – to join the Crimson Fleet without any prior allegiance to the United Colonies. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to do just that, bypassing the SysDef recruitment entirely.
Bypassing SysDef: The Direct Route to Piracy
The core method to join the Crimson Fleet without SysDef involvement is surprisingly straightforward: you need to commit a crime, get arrested, and then refuse UC Commander Ikande’s offer to infiltrate the pirates. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Step 1: Commit a Crime in UC Territory
The easiest way to trigger an arrest is by committing a minor crime in a populated United Colonies area. New Atlantis is an ideal location for this. You can:
- Assault a Citizen: Simply punch or shoot a civilian or guard. This will quickly escalate into an arrest.
- Steal Items: Successfully pickpocket or loot an item within sight of a guard. Note that some items are flagged as contraband. However, if you are just going for a basic arrest, just committing theft will suffice.
- Possess Contraband: If you have contraband on your person, getting scanned will result in an immediate arrest. You can acquire contraband in random loot throughout the game, or purchase some at the Den a small space station in the Wolf system.
Step 2: Get Arrested
After committing the crime, UC security forces will approach you. Allow them to arrest you instead of resisting. This will lead you into custody.
Step 3: Refuse Ikande’s Offer
You will be brought before Commander Ikande of UC SysDef. He will offer you a deal: to infiltrate the Crimson Fleet as a double agent. To join the Crimson Fleet directly without SysDef involvement, you must refuse this offer. Politely or rudely, it doesn’t matter, but simply refuse the proposition.
Step 4: Pay Your Debt to Society (Briefly)
Once you decline Ikande’s proposition, you will be given a choice to either pay a fine or serve jail time. Complete either option to fulfil your debt to the UC.
Step 5: The Crimson Fleet Calls
After being released, the Crimson Fleet will hear about your “rebellious” act of refusing SysDef’s offer. You will then be contacted directly, initiating the “Rook Meets King” quest. Follow this questline, and you will successfully become a member of the Crimson Fleet without any association with UC SysDef.
Benefits of Avoiding the SysDef Path
Choosing the direct route has several advantages:
- Authentic Pirate Experience: By bypassing the undercover operation, you embrace the true pirate spirit, aligning with the Crimson Fleet from the start.
- No Double-Crossing: You don’t have to deal with the moral complexities of working as a double agent. Your allegiance is clear.
- Quicker Access: While the initial stages might involve a short stint in jail, it is arguably a faster method to becoming a pirate than having to complete the SysDef introduction questline,
- Direct Recruitment: You’ll bypass the SysDef intro entirely.
FAQs: Joining the Crimson Fleet
Here are 15 frequently asked questions that will further clarify the intricacies of joining the Crimson Fleet and the mechanics behind it:
1. Can I join the Crimson Fleet as a “normal captain”?
Yes, you can absolutely join the Crimson Fleet as a “normal captain,” meaning without being a UC SysDef double agent. Refusing Ikande’s offer will trigger the direct recruitment by the Crimson Fleet.
2. What are the two main ways to join the Crimson Fleet?
The two main ways to join the Crimson Fleet are either by: 1. working as a double agent for UC SysDef through the mission given by Commander Ikande, or 2. by getting arrested and subsequently refusing Ikande’s offer.
3. Do I need to join the UC to join the Crimson Fleet?
No, you do not need to join the UC to join the Crimson Fleet. You can join the Crimson Fleet directly by committing a crime, getting arrested, and then refusing the SysDef offer.
4. What is the quickest way to join the Crimson Fleet?
The quickest way to join the Crimson Fleet is by getting arrested in a UC-controlled area such as New Atlantis. A simple assault will get you arrested quickly and then you can refuse Ikande’s offer.
5. Should I join the Crimson Fleet or UC SysDef?
This is a personal choice. The Crimson Fleet offers access to the Key pirate base, a reliable place to sell stolen goods, and generally better material rewards. UC SysDef offers a free house, but it’s less impressive than player-built outposts. Consider your character’s moral alignment and preferred playstyle.
6. What is the best ship in the Crimson Fleet?
The Crimson Wight and its upgraded versions (Crimson Wight II and III) are considered the best ships the Crimson Fleet offers. They can be found at the Key.
7. Does Andreja dislike joining the Crimson Fleet?
Surprisingly, Andreja doesn’t mind if you join the Crimson Fleet. However, she might object to specific actions you take while in the faction.
8. Do I have to join the Crimson Fleet as a SysDef double agent?
No, you do not have to join the Crimson Fleet as a SysDef double agent. You can join as a “normal captain” by refusing Ikande’s offer.
9. What is the best faction in Starfield?
There is no single “best” faction in Starfield. The United Colonies are often cited as a good option for those who prefer law and order. The Crimson Fleet is the right faction for pirate players. Ultimately, the best faction depends on your roleplaying preferences and goals.
10. Can I do both UC and Crimson Fleet storylines?
Yes, you can initially pursue both the UC and Crimson Fleet storylines. However, you eventually have to choose one side. Your final choice will impact the ending of those questlines and the access you have to facilities.
11. When should I join the Crimson Fleet?
You can join the Crimson Fleet at any time. However, some players recommend doing so later in the game when you have had your fair share of target practice and XP from destroying enemy pirate ships.
12. Can I join UC Vanguard and the Crimson Fleet?
Yes, you can join both the UC Vanguard and the Crimson Fleet, as these are separate storylines, you can, later on, choose to play through both, just be aware that you will have to choose one side by the end of the Crimson Fleet story.
13. Where can I buy Crimson Fleet ships?
You can buy Crimson Fleet ships from Jasmine Durand at the Key. This option only unlocks after completing the “Rook Meets King” mission.
14. What are the benefits of joining the Crimson Fleet?
Joining the Crimson Fleet grants you access to the Key, 250,000 Credits and a friendly territory. A benefit is access to multiple shops within the base to sell any stolen goods you have acquired.
15. Can I steal ships in Starfield?
Yes, you can steal ships in Starfield. You need at least one rank in the Targeting Control Systems skill. This allows you to target a specific ship’s systems, and then board it to take control of it.
By understanding these steps and answering common questions, you can effectively join the Crimson Fleet and live the pirate life without any involvement with UC SysDef. Good luck on your spacefaring adventures!