Stranded in Space? What to Do When You Run Out of Fuel in Starfield
Running out of fuel in the vast expanse of space in Starfield can be a disconcerting experience, especially when you’re expecting a seamless journey between star systems. Unlike some other space exploration games, Starfield doesn’t require you to manually refuel your ship with physical fuel. Instead, fuel regenerates automatically over time, but this can be an issue if you’ve exhausted your grav jump capacity. So, what do you do when you find yourself stranded with an empty fuel gauge? Here’s your survival guide for navigating a fuel-less crisis.
Understanding Starfield’s Fuel Mechanic
Before diving into solutions, it’s crucial to understand how fuel works in Starfield. Your ship’s “fuel” isn’t a tangible substance; it’s a measure of how many consecutive grav jumps your ship can perform without needing a recharge. Think of it as jump capacity rather than actual fuel. Your ship will automatically “refuel” its grav jump capacity, over time. When you run out of “fuel,” it doesn’t mean your ship stops working, you just cannot make a grav jump.
What to Do When You’re Out of Fuel
The critical point to remember is that running out of fuel doesn’t strand you permanently. It simply means you cannot perform a grav jump. Here’s a detailed step-by-step approach for when your fuel reserves are depleted:
- Assess Your Situation: The first step is to calmly assess your situation. Check your ship’s status to make sure nothing else is wrong. Be aware of your surroundings if you are in hostile territory.
- Stay Put: If you are already in a system with a planet, you can stay put. The longer you remain grounded, the more your fuel will recharge. You can wait for your fuel to replenish, allowing you to grav jump again. If you are in open space, move to the nearest planet. You need to land to refill your grav jump capacity.
- Explore and Engage: Since you’re temporarily grounded, use this time productively.
- Complete Side Quests: Explore the planet, take on side quests, and earn rewards. This is a great way to advance through the game while waiting.
- Trade Your Valuables: Visit local settlements or traders to sell any gathered materials, artifacts, or loot.
- Collect Resources: Search for valuable materials on the planet. Gather these to use them later in crafting.
- Interact with the World: Talk to NPCs, learn more about the lore, or participate in events that may pop up.
- Plan Shorter Jumps: If you have no landing options, then you are still able to use what little fuel you have left to make a short jump. If you need to reach a distant system, plan your route carefully. Make multiple, shorter jumps to reach closer systems. It will take time, but you will get there.
- Enhance Your Ship:
- Increase Fuel Storage: Upgrade your ship’s fuel capacity at a ship technician to perform longer jumps without stopping.
- Improve Grav Drive: A better Grav Drive can cover more ground for every jump, decreasing the number of jumps you need to make.
- Level Up Skills: Improve your piloting and grav jump skills to improve range and efficiency. These skills may reduce the number of jumps to get somewhere.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are 15 FAQs to further clarify aspects related to fuel in Starfield:
Do I need to purchase fuel in Starfield?
No, you do not need to purchase fuel. Fuel regenerates automatically over time. There are no gas stations or fuel vendors in the game.
How long does it take for fuel to regenerate?
The regeneration time is generally quick, but it can vary. If you are not using your grav drive, your fuel will replenish over time. The recharge time seems dependent on how much fuel is needed to refill.
What if I need to make multiple grav jumps?
If you plan on making multiple grav jumps, be sure your fuel gauge is full. If it is not, your will have to make several shorter jumps.
Is there any way to speed up fuel regeneration?
There’s no known direct way to speed up fuel regeneration. The best way is to land on a planet or stay still until full.
What is grav jump range?
Grav jump range is how many systems you can travel to before having to refuel. Skills and grav drives can increase this amount.
Why does it say “Your ship doesn’t have enough grav jump range?”
This message appears when your ship’s current Grav Drive doesn’t have sufficient power to jump to the desired distance.
Can I get stuck in space with no fuel?
No, you can’t get permanently stuck. Your ship will recharge its grav jump capacity over time, allowing you to jump again.
How important are fuel tanks in Starfield?
Fuel tanks are crucial for players who want to make long journeys between star systems. More fuel equals less stops.
How do I increase my ship’s fuel storage capacity?
Visit a Ship Technician at major ports to upgrade your fuel storage. You can find one at the landing pad in New Atlantis.
Is there a penalty for running out of fuel?
There is no penalty for running out of fuel, but there is a convenience penalty. The player will not be able to travel far without stopping to recharge.
How do skills affect fuel consumption?
Piloting and grav jump skills can improve your jump range. This will make your jumps more efficient, and less frequent.
Can I steal a ship with better fuel efficiency?
You can acquire better ships with various stats by purchasing them. You cannot steal Starborn Ships.
What are the best ships for long-distance travel?
Many ships are suitable for long travel, including the Razorleaf, Aegis, and Abyss Trekker. A ship with a high grav jump range is the goal.
Can I have relationships in Starfield?
Yes, you can form relationships and even marry certain companions. These include Sarah Morgan, Barrett, Sam Coe, and Andreja.
Can I manually land on planets?
No, you cannot manually land on planets in Starfield. The game provides a smooth, automatic landing sequence.
Conclusion
Running out of fuel in Starfield isn’t a catastrophic event. It’s an opportunity to engage in the game’s rich side quests and explore planets. By understanding the mechanics of fuel and how to manage it effectively, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey through the galaxy. Keep exploring, keep upgrading, and keep venturing into the unknown. Just remember, the fuel will always regenerate. Happy travels in the Settled Systems!