Star Citizen ships: the beginner's map
Hundreds of ships, one you actually need to start. The roles, and how to get them.
Star Citizen has hundreds of ships, from tiny starters to capital ships with full interiors. As a new player you do not need to know them all, you need one starter and a sense of the roles. Here is the map, and how to get ships without spending a fortune.
New here? Start simple. Grab the Citizen Starter Pack at $45 (RSI Aurora Mk II), add STAR-JTV7-FXLR for 50,000 UEC, and earn the rest in-game. The finder picks your first ship in 3 questions.
Ships by role
| Role | What it does | Good starter example |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-role starter | A bit of everything to learn the game | Aurora Mk II, Mustang Alpha |
| Fighter / all-rounder | Combat plus light cargo | Avenger Titan |
| Cargo / multi-crew | Hauling and crewed work | Cutlass Black |
| Mining, salvage, exploration | Specialised industry loops | Earn in-game as you progress |
How you actually get ships
Two ways: buy or rent them in-game with UEC you earn (no real money), or pledge for them with real money (optional). Your starter plus the 50,000 UEC referral bonus is enough to begin, and you work up to bigger ships by playing. How ship prices really work.
Which starter ship is best?
For most new players, the cheapest qualifying pack (the Citizen Starter Pack) is the smart start, then upgrade in-game or with a CCU. The "best" ship depends on what you enjoy. The decision guide or the finder tool will sort you out in under a minute.
Frequently asked questions
How many ships are in Star Citizen?
Hundreds, across roles from tiny starters to capital ships. New players only need one starter ship, the rest can be earned in-game. The cheapest start is the Citizen Starter Pack at $45 plus 50,000 UEC via code STAR-JTV7-FXLR.
What is the best ship in Star Citizen for beginners?
For most beginners, the starter ship in the cheapest pack (the RSI Aurora Mk II in the Citizen Starter Pack) is the smart start; you upgrade later in-game. Use the finder to pick. All packs qualify for the 50,000 UEC bonus.
How do you get ships in Star Citizen?
Buy or rent them in-game with UEC you earn, or pledge real money (optional). Start with a Starter Pack and the 50,000 UEC referral bonus, then earn bigger ships by playing. Ship prices explained.
Ready to claim the 50,000 UEC?
One click pre-fills STAR-JTV7-FXLR into the RSI signup form. Finish the account, buy a $40 or larger Game Package, the bonus is yours.
Enlist with code STAR-JTV7-FXLR