Quick answer
An RSI account is free. With a valid referral code, a new account receives RSI’s standard 50,000 UEC enlistment bonus. You can choose a Game Package later, ideally after a Free Fly or careful research.
Step-by-step registration
How to use the referral code
1. Open the official referral link. It takes you to RSI registration and automatically pre-fills the Referral Code field.
2. Before completing sign-up, check that STAR-NXJY-S3DP appears in the Referral Code field. This gives you time to catch a typo or a failed pre-fill.
3. Create the RSI account for free. Choose your account details carefully, accept the required terms and complete registration.
You still do not need to buy anything. Wait for a Free Fly, test Star Citizen later and only then decide whether you want a Game Package.
2. Wait for a Free Fly or buy a Game Package
If you decide to keep playing outside a Free Fly, you need a Game Package. Check the distinction carefully: a Game Package includes game access, while a Standalone Ship by itself does not.
For a detailed explanation and cautious advice for undecided beginners, visit Game Packages explained.
3. Installation
When you have Free Fly access or a Game Package, download the RSI Launcher and install Star Citizen on an SSD. The game is large and streams a great deal of data, so a traditional HDD is not recommended.
After installation, sign in to the RSI Launcher and take your time. Star Citizen does not lead you through a simple linear campaign: you must get oriented, find the spaceport, retrieve your ship and choose your own first goals.
After your first login, continue with the beginner guide. Before buying, use the hardware section to check whether your PC and expectations are a good fit.
Referral code in brief
A referral code is an invitation code for new RSI accounts. A valid code provides RSI’s standard 50,000 UEC enlistment bonus. It is useful early-game currency, not a discount or a reason to buy anything.
Timing matters. Add the code during registration and check it before submitting. RSI currently provides a 24-hour grace period for a missed code, but RSI Support cannot add it after that window.
The Referral Program is RSI’s official system for player referrals. It grants the standard 50,000 UEC enlistment bonus to eligible new accounts, while separate limited-time rewards apply only when RSI explicitly announces them.
Free Fly or a Game Package?
You can prepare your free RSI account with the referral code now. During a Free Fly, you can later test performance, controls, the feel of the game and its alpha state without pressure to buy.
Outside a Free Fly, you need a Game Package for continued access. Beginners do not need to spend more than necessary: an entry-level Starter Pack is enough, and expensive ships are optional.
Which Game Package is right for you?
A Game Package includes access to Star Citizen; a Standalone Ship by itself does not. If you are unsure, wait for a Free Fly or compare the differences before choosing an entry-level Starter Pack.
When is waiting for an event worthwhile?
Some RSI events may include a Free Fly, different store availability or a separate referral incentive. None of these benefits is guaranteed, so rely on the current official event page rather than old announcements.
Common questions
Can I test Star Citizen for free?
Yes, but only during a Free Fly. These limited-time events let an RSI account access Star Citizen without a Game Package; there is no permanent free trial.
This is often the best first step because you can test the controls, performance and alpha state before buying. Outside a Free Fly, continued access requires a Game Package.
Do I need a Game Package?
Not to create an account. You only need a Game Package for continued access outside a Free Fly. Make sure the product explicitly includes Star Citizen game access; a Standalone Ship alone does not.
This distinction matters because an individual ship may look appealing in the store while still not providing game access to a new account.
What do I get from the referral code?
A valid referral code gives a new RSI account the standard 50,000 UEC enlistment bonus. It is useful early-game currency, but it does not reduce the cost of a Game Package.
RSI may occasionally announce separate limited-time incentives. Those offers are not permanent and only the current official terms apply.
Can I add the referral code after signing up?
RSI currently allows a missed code to be added within 24 hours of account creation. Do not rely on that grace period if you can enter it during sign-up.
Use the referral link and check the pre-filled code before submitting. Once a code is linked to an account, RSI says it cannot be replaced with a different one.
Should I buy the Avenger Titan right away?
Not necessarily. The Avenger Titan is a versatile all-rounder, but a cheaper Starter Pack can teach the same core systems at lower cost.
If you are unsure whether you enjoy Star Citizen or it runs well enough on your PC, try a Free Fly or choose the least expensive suitable Game Package. Expensive ships are not required, and waiting is a valid choice.
When is it worth waiting for IAE or Alien Week?
Waiting can make sense when you are in no hurry. Event content, store availability, Free Fly access and referral incentives vary and are never guaranteed.
Use an event to compare or test only when the current official RSI page confirms what is available. No event automatically makes a purchase worthwhile; choose only a package that fits your budget and intended play style.