What Is the Best Armor Suit in Starfield?
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The quest for the best armor in Starfield is a common pursuit among players, and while the answer isn’t always straightforward due to randomized perks, certain suits consistently rise to the top. The Mantis Spacesuit stands out as a prime contender for the best all-around suit. Its legendary status means it comes with three randomized perks, offering significant potential for powerful bonuses. However, this randomness means that, depending on the perks rolled, the Mark 1 Spacesuit, obtainable early in the game through a well-known exploit, can also be considered the best, especially for early-game progression due to its impressive base stats. For late-game, Bounty Hunter/Merc Sets with superior mods and stats are extremely competitive for the title of the best. Ultimately, the “best” armor is somewhat subjective and will depend on your playstyle and the perks you’re able to roll on legendary armor sets.
Early-Game Powerhouse: The Mark 1 Spacesuit
How to Obtain the Mark 1 Spacesuit
The Mark 1 Spacesuit isn’t found through typical gameplay. Instead, it’s obtained through an exploit early in the game. After completing the main quest, “One Small Step,” head to the basement of The Lodge in New Atlantis. There, you’ll find a master-locked mannequin display case. Lockpicking this case will reward you with the Mark 1 Spacesuit, consisting of a helmet, pack, and suit. This set boasts excellent early-game defense against physical, energy, and electromagnetic damage, making it a significant upgrade from the starting gear.
Why the Mark 1 is Great for Beginners
The Mark 1’s impressive defense stats provide a substantial advantage in the initial hours of the game. It’s significantly better than anything you’d typically find in early loot drops. This armor provides the protection you need to survive exploration and early-game combat encounters. Although not ultimately the best in the game, its accessibility so early via the exploit makes it extremely valuable and therefore a very good contender for best early-game armor.
The Legendary Mantis Spacesuit
Unlocking the Mantis Armor
The Mantis Spacesuit is legendary and can be obtained through a side quest called “Mantis,” beginning at a Secret Outpost on Denebola I-b. Completing this quest will reward you with the Mantis Spacesuit set. It’s not just the suit itself that’s legendary; the helmet and pack are too, ensuring three perks across all pieces.
Why the Mantis Armor is so Powerful
The Mantis Spacesuit’s three randomized perks are the key to its power. These can range from resource hauling benefits, weapon holsters, to combat focused perks like increased damage or damage reduction. The ability to reload and try the quest again means you can keep rolling for a new set of perks, making it worth the effort to get the exact perks you want. This makes the Mantis suit’s overall potential very high and a good contender for best armor.
End-Game Titans: Bounty Hunter/Merc Sets
Stats Through the Roof
For those who prioritize raw stats and don’t mind the grind, the Bounty Hunter/Merc sets stand out as powerful armor choices for late-game scenarios. These sets, especially superior variants, boast extremely high defense stats across physical, energy, and electromagnetic damage types.
How to Obtain Bounty Hunter/Merc Sets
These sets are not tied to a specific quest or location but are instead found in loot drops or purchased from vendors, typically when your level is high enough to ensure you are being offered the more powerful versions of armor. Because they are randomized in loot, grinding for a “perfect” set of Bounty Hunter/Merc armor with excellent perks can become a significant undertaking.
Best Armor vs. Best Overall: Considering All Factors
While the Mantis armor can provide some fantastic randomized perks, and the Bounty Hunter/Merc armor offers the highest base defensive stats, the Mark 1 provides the best early-game boost, and therefore should be considered among the best for progression. Which is ultimately the “best armor” is subjective and depends on your playstyle and your priorities.
If you value:
- Early-Game Power: The Mark 1 Spacesuit.
- Potential for High Perks: The Mantis Spacesuit.
- Highest Base Stats: The Bounty Hunter/Merc Sets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Mark 1 Spacesuit really the best for early game?
Yes, the Mark 1 Spacesuit is one of the best options for the early game due to its high defense stats compared to other gear available during that phase. Its availability through the exploit makes it an easy way to significantly boost your survivability early on.
2. How do I get the Mantis Spacesuit?
The Mantis Spacesuit is obtained by completing the “Mantis” side quest, which starts at a Secret Outpost on Denebola I-b.
3. Can I reroll the Mantis suit perks?
Yes, you can reroll the perks on the Mantis Spacesuit by reloading a save before completing the quest. This is an exploit, allowing you to get the perfect perks that suit your playstyle.
4. What makes the Bounty Hunter/Merc Sets so good?
Bounty Hunter/Merc sets, particularly the superior versions, have exceptionally high base stats, making them very effective for late-game combat and exploration.
5. Are there other good armor options besides these?
While the Mark 1, Mantis, and Bounty Hunter/Merc sets are frequently praised, there are other solid options, including faction-specific armors and those found during quests. Experiment and find what suits your playstyle.
6. Does armor weight matter in Starfield?
Yes, armor weight impacts your encumbrance and, as a result, your ability to sprint and fast travel. It’s essential to balance protection with mobility.
7. How can I improve my spacesuits?
You can improve your spacesuits with mods at workbench locations. These mods can add additional defensive and mobility enhancements.
8. Are there any completely unique armors with set bonuses?
Most set bonuses are from legendary perks, but some unique armors, such as those found during specific quests, have unique attributes.
9. Can I upgrade the Mark 1 Spacesuit?
Yes, like most suits, the Mark 1 can be upgraded using various mods to improve its performance even further.
10. Do the perks on legendary armor stack?
Yes, legendary perks on armor stack, so having multiple pieces with the same perk can result in significant bonuses.
11. Is there a way to get the best armor without relying on exploits?
Yes, it is possible to find extremely good armor naturally through exploration, looting, and completing quests, albeit more challenging and grindy than simply using exploits or focusing on the Mantis quest.
12. What are the common legendary armor perks?
Common legendary armor perks include resource hauler (reduced resource weight), weapon holsters (reduced weapon weight), increased damage resistance, and bonuses to specific damage types.
13. How do I know if a suit has good stats?
Check the armor’s stats, specifically physical, energy, and electromagnetic defense numbers. Higher numbers indicate better protection. Also, pay attention to any legendary perks.
14. Can I collect every space suit in the game?
Yes, it is possible to collect multiple spacesuits in the game. However, inventory space is limited, so store them in your ship or at a base.
15. Does having the “best” armor guarantee I win all battles?
While the “best” armor provides a significant advantage, skill, tactics, and weapon choices are still crucial to succeed in combat.