Summary
- Have the referral code ready and check it when creating your free RSI account. Creating the account does not require a purchase.
- Install Star Citizen on an SSD and leave enough free space for future updates.
- After signing in, review the settings, controls and a few simple first objectives at your own pace.
Prepare your account before installing
The important account step happens before the download: create your free RSI account and check the referral code carefully during registration. Do not assume that you can simply add or change it afterwards.
Once the account is ready, you can wait for a Free Fly or consider a Starter Pack only when you are ready to play.
Download and install the launcher
Download the RSI Launcher from the official RSI website. This site does not host its own download. If in doubt, return to the official source.
Choose an SSD for the installation. Star Citizen can have long loading or asset-streaming pauses, and using an HDD makes the experience noticeably worse.
- Download the launcher only from the official source.
- Choose an installation folder on an SSD.
- Leave enough free space for updates.
Sign in and review the initial settings
After signing in, confirm that the launcher works correctly and the game is fully updated. In the game, review the graphics, audio, input device and keyboard layout settings.
Do not change everything at once. Start with a few adjustments so you can tell which settings actually help.
Typical beginner problems
Typical early problems include long loading times, confusing menus, getting lost in a city or being unsure how to retrieve a ship. These are common and do not mean you are doing everything wrong.
Continue with the first-start guide, which covers waking up, using an ASOP terminal, finding the hangar, taking off and landing.