Before you buy Star Citizen: a new player checklist

This checklist is designed to share with someone considering their first package. It uses the official RSI store and knowledge base rather than assumptions about current offers. Use your browser's Print command to keep a copy.

1. Check the PC before the package

   Use RSI's minimum requirements, including a CPU with AVX, AVX2 and FMA3 support, 16 GB RAM, a compatible GPU and 150 GB of SSD space. RSI recommends 32 GB RAM. A minimum specification is not a frame-rate promise.

   Requirements and storage checklist.

2. Decide whether to try a public Free Fly first

   Check whether the event is open to new accounts. Some ship trials are for existing backers. An expected month is not a confirmed date, and an event announcement does not guarantee a starter discount.

   Current event information.

3. Create the account with a code if you want the bonus

   A valid player code belongs in the Referral Code field at signup. If missed, RSI allows 24 hours to add one. You do not have to buy the game within that 24 hour window. The code cannot be changed after it is attached.

   Signup instructions.

4. Check for game access in the product contents

   A Game Package contains Star Citizen access. A standalone ship does not add that access. Squadron 42 is a separate product. Check the product contents, not just the ship name or image.

   Packages versus standalone ships.

5. Compare the total checkout cost

   On 30 September 2026 the Citizen pack was $45 before tax, with a $60 list price. The Duelist was $75 and the Privateer $125. Their earlier Pirate Week offers had ended. Tax and currency conversion can change your checkout total.

   Current starter comparison and RSI's store.

6. Separate signup currency from recruiter rewards

   The signup page advertises 50,000 UEC after buying a Game Package. The referrer's Recruitment Point has separate conditions: package ownership and $40 USD in eligible fresh-money spending. Gifts and store credit do not count toward that spend.

   The official rules, explained.

7. Leave room for the alpha's limitations

   Progress can be wiped, bugs can lose cargo or equipment and performance depends on the location and server. Start with a package that fits your budget. A bigger pledge is optional.

   Reasons to buy and reasons to wait.

Disclosure: these guides share the maintainer's referral code. Any valid player code offers the same standard bonus. You can share this checklist without using that code.