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Choosing Your Destiny: What’s the Best Class to Play in Starfield?

There isn’t a single “best” class in Starfield, because the game deconstructs the traditional class system. Instead, Starfield utilizes Backgrounds to define your character’s starting skills and flavor. The “best” Background depends entirely on your desired playstyle and the type of character you want to embody in the Settled Systems. If you favor combat prowess, a Soldier or Bounty Hunter might be ideal. If you prefer a stealthy, melee-focused approach, Ronin is a strong choice. For those who enjoy healing and support roles, Combat Medic offers a unique starting point. Ultimately, the most rewarding class in Starfield is the one that aligns most closely with your personal vision for your character’s journey.

Understanding Backgrounds in Starfield

Starfield replaces conventional classes with Backgrounds, offering a narrative starting point and a set of three initial skills. These skills provide an early advantage and can influence your early game experience. However, it’s crucial to remember that these starting skills are just a boost; you can develop any skill regardless of your chosen background. The system allows for a vast array of character builds, making it possible to create a stealthy diplomat or a charismatic warrior, regardless of your starting point. Your choices during character creation help you create the beginning of your character’s background. The rest is up to you!

Popular Background Choices and Why

While the “best” is subjective, several Backgrounds stand out for their versatility and early-game advantages. Here are some popular choices and their strengths:

Bounty Hunter: A classic choice for players who enjoy combat and exploration. The starting skills – Piloting, Targeting Control Systems, and Boost Pack Training – make you a formidable force in space combat and allow for greater mobility on the ground. This background is ideal for players who want to be independent and well-equipped to handle any situation.
Combat Medic: This Background is for those who prefer a support-oriented role. With starting skills in Medicine, Botany, and Wellness, you’ll be able to heal yourself and allies, craft powerful aid items, and explore the galaxy’s flora for unique ingredients. This is a great choice for players who enjoy crafting, resource management, and keeping their team alive.
Ronin: Emphasizing stealth and melee combat, the Ronin is perfect for players who enjoy a more nuanced and tactical approach to combat. Starting with skills in Stealth, Dueling, and Survival, you’ll be able to sneak past enemies, deal significant damage in close quarters, and thrive in harsh environments.
Soldier: A straightforward choice for players who want to excel in combat. Fitness, Ballistics, and Boost Pack Training provide increased survivability, improved weapon accuracy, and greater mobility in combat scenarios. If you want to be a front-line fighter, the Soldier is an excellent choice.
Industrialist: If you are a creative player who enjoys outpost building and resource collection, the Industrialist is a solid choice. The starting skills – Persuasion, Security, and Geology – make it easier to gather resources, unlock new areas, and convince others to assist you in your endeavors.

Thinking Beyond the Starting Skills

While starting skills are beneficial, they shouldn’t be the sole determining factor in your choice. Consider the narrative implications and how the Background resonates with your character’s backstory. Do you envision your character as a hardened mercenary, a resourceful explorer, or a charismatic diplomat? The Background you choose helps shape your character’s identity and can influence your interactions with NPCs. For example, the Diplomat is a great choice if you want to avoid conflicts and get your way through persuasion.

The Importance of Traits

In addition to Backgrounds, Traits further customize your character. These can provide unique advantages or disadvantages, adding another layer of depth to your character creation. Some examples of traits you can choose are Extrovert, Hero Worshipped, and Raised Enlightened, each giving you a unique perk. It is important to note that you cannot change these traits later in the game.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Starfield Classes (Backgrounds)

Are there traditional classes in Starfield? No. Starfield utilizes Backgrounds instead of traditional classes. Backgrounds are more of a narrative starting point, offering a set of three initial skills.
Can I change my starting class (Background) in Starfield? No, once you select a Background during character creation, it cannot be changed. However, you are not locked into a specific playstyle, as you can develop any skill regardless of your initial Background.
What happens if I don’t like the skills my chosen Background provides? The starting skills are simply a boost. You can develop any skill in the game, regardless of your Background. You are not locked into a particular playstyle.
Are traits permanent? Yes, the traits you select during character creation are permanent and cannot be changed later in the game. Choose wisely!
How many ships can I own in Starfield? You can own up to ten ships at a time.
Can I sell ships in Starfield? Yes, you can sell ships at any ship services technician or your outpost shipbuilder kiosk. You must have more than one ship to sell a ship.
What are the best starting skills to focus on in Starfield? Some of the best starting skills include Boost Pack Training, Medicine, Persuasion, Security, Weight-Lifting, Scavenging, Fitness, and Ballistics.
What traits should I pick in Starfield? Some recommended traits include Empath, Extrovert, and Hero Worshipped. However, the best traits depend on your desired playstyle.
Is there a level cap in Starfield? No, there is no level cap in Starfield.
Which factions can I join in Starfield? You can join several factions, including the United Colonies, Freestar Collective, Ryujin Industries, Crimson Fleet, and Constellation.
Can I be a pirate in Starfield? Yes, you can join the Crimson Fleet and become a pirate.
Can I fly my ship in Starfield? Yes, you can fly your ship in Starfield and engage in space combat.
Can I romance characters in Starfield? Yes, you can romance specific companions, including Sarah Morgan, Barrett, Sam Coe, and Andreja.
Are there pets in Starfield? Currently, there is no indication of pets in Starfield.
What should I sell in Starfield? Armor and weapons generally sell for more credits than random objects.

Conclusion

Choosing the “best” class to play in Starfield is a personal decision. Consider your preferred playstyle, the narrative you want to create, and the advantages each Background provides. Don’t be afraid to experiment and respec your skills as you progress. With 21 different types of backgrounds, the possibilities are endless. The freedom to customize your character and explore the vast universe is what makes Starfield such a compelling experience. Happy exploring! The Games Learning Society provides an in-depth analysis of games and how they impact learning and engagement. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org for more information.

What is the best class to play in Starfield?