Starfield lets you unlock Skills from its Skill Trees to help build characters in a large variety of ways.

Whether you want to be a smooth talker, tech wizard, or connoisseur of killing, you can focus on specific Skill Trees in Starfield to specialise in a particular playstyle, or you can mix it up by picking your favourites from each Skill Tree to assist in your unique journey across the stars.

To help you plan your character build, we've got a list of Skills in Starfield below, along with a Skills and Skill Trees explainer, and details on how to unlock and level up a Skill.

Skills and Skill Trees explainedSkill Ranks: How to unlock and level up a SkillPhysical Skills listSocial Skills listCombat Skills listScience Skills listTech Skills listTo see this content please enable targeting cookies.Manage cookie settings Our latest look at Starfield gameplay footage.Watch on YouTube

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Starfield Skills and Skill Trees explained

Starfield has 82 Skills in total spread across five different Skill Trees - Physical, Social, Combat, Science, and Tech.

Each Skill Tree is focused around a specific type of Skill. The Social Skill Tree, for example, allows you to unlock Skills like Persuasions and Intimidation which grant you more options when interacting with NPCs. Meanwhile, investing in the Combat Skill Tree can improve your capabilities with the various weapon types, such as Rifles, you can use in Starfield.

Image credit: Bethesda Softworks

Each Skill Tree is also divided into four tiers, such as Advanced (second tier) and Expert (third tier). To access these tiers and their associated skills, you need to invest a certain number of Skill Points into a Skill Tree. This means that if you fancy being able to mind control creatures, for example, you need to invest enough Skill Points into the Social Skill Tree so you can access the Xenosociology skill on the highest tier.

Each Background for your character also comes with three Skills automatically unlocked, with said Skills being themed around the Background itself. The Diplomat Background, for example, begins with the Persuasion, Commerce and Wellness Skills since it's a role initially focused around communication. As you progress through Starfield, you'll be able to customise these Backgrounds by unlocking new skills.

Starfield Skill Ranks: How to unlock and level up a Skill in Starfield

You receive one Skill Point every time you level up in Starfield. This Skill Point can then either be used to unlock a new Skill or invested into one you already have, so you can level up that Skill.

To properly level up a Skill, and in doing so increase its ranking, you must spend one Skill Point and complete a Rank Challenge.There are four Ranks in total for every Skill and increasing a Skill's Rank will unlock more bonuses for said Skill.

Image credit: Bethesda Softworks

The Rank Challenges are themed around the Skill itself, you can naturally complete them as you play Starfield, and become increasingly difficult as you progress to higher Ranks. The Rank 1 challenge for the Security Skill, for example, is 'Pick 5 locks' and then, for Rank 2, it becomes 'Pick 15 locks.'

Starfield Physical Skills list

Divided into the Physical Skill Tree's four tiers, below you'll find a list of all 16 Physical Skills in Starfield:

Starfield Physical Skills - Tier 1

Skill NameDescriptionRank 1Rank 2Rank 3Rank 4BoxingOnce considered a "sport of kings," boxing is still practiced as a recreational competitive activity, but its combat applications can't be deniedUnarmed attacks do 25% more damage. 25% less O2 used when using a power attackUnarmed attacks do 50% more damage. 50% less O2 used when using a power attackUnarmed attacks do 75% more damage. While in a fight and unarmed, running consumes 30% less O2Unarmed attacks do 100% more damage and have a chance to knock down opponentsFitnessIn space, the greatest commodity is oxygen, and the increased lung capacity gained by a regular physical fitness regimen is essential to survivalYou have 10% more oxygen availableYou have 20% more oxygen availableYou have 30% more oxygen availableSprinting and power attacks now use significantly less oxygenStealthFor a combatant who values discretion above all else, the ability to approach a target while undetected and kill with a silenced weapon is as terrifying as it is effectiveAdds a Stealth Meter. You are 25% more difficult to detect when sneaking. Suppressed weapons do an additional 5% sneak attack damageUpgrades the Stealth Meter. You are 50% more difficult to detect when sneaking. Suppressed weapons do an additional 10% sneak attack damageUpgrades the Stealth Meter. You are 75% more difficult to detect when sneaking. Suppressed weapons do an additional 15% sneak attack damageYou are 100% more difficult to detect when sneaking. Suppressed weapons do an additional 20% sneak attack damage. Doors you interact with while in stealth no longer alert enemiesWeight LiftingWeight training can significantly increase one's ability to carry weapons and equipment, both in space and on the groundIncrease total carrying capacity by 10 kilogramsIncrease total carrying capacity by 25 kilogramsIncrease total carrying capacity by 50 kilogramsIncrease total carrying capacity by 100 kilograms. Gain 50% resistance to staggerWellnessBy embracing an active lifestyle and good nutrition habits, one may improve their overall sense of health, and even gain prolonged life expectancyIncrease your maximum health by 10%Increase your maximum health by 20%Increase your maximum health by 30%Increase your maximum health by 40%

Starfield Physical Skills - Tier 2

Skill NameDescriptionRank 1Rank 2Rank 3Rank 4Energy Weapon DissipationConsidering the widespread use of energy weapons in the Settled Systems, specialized training to minimize damage is considered invaluableEnergy damage is reduced by 5%Energy damage is reduced by 10%Energy damage is reduced by 15%25% chance to reflect energy damage back to an attacker when your health is below 50%Environmental ConditioningIn the Settled Systems, even oxygen-rich planets and moons may have an atmosphere that is hazardous to human beingsGain 10 resistance to Airborne environmental damageGain 10 resistance to Thermal environmental damageGain 10 resistance to Corrosive and Radiation environmental damageReduced chance to gain afflictions from environmental damage sourcesGymnasticsFrom navigating the elevations of alien landscapes to exploring derelict ships in Zero-G, gymnastic training is invaluable for improving both safety and maneuverabilityUnlock the ability to combat slide. Take 15% less fall damageMove faster in Zero-G. Take 20% less fall damageBecome more stable when firing in Zero-G. Take 30% less fall damage. Replenish some O2 after mantlingIncreased jump height. Run faster after combat sliding or mantlingNutritionAdvanced nutritional science is no substitute for good life choices, and knowing how much and when to eat can be just as important as the food itselfFood and drink are 10% more effectiveFood and drink are 20% more effectiveFood and drink are 30% more effectiveFood and drink are 50% more effectivePain TolerancePain hurts - but only if you're not strong enough to take itPhysical damage is reduced by 5%Physical damage is reduced by 10%Physical damage is reduced by 15%5% to ignore physical damage when your health is low

Starfield Physical Skills - Tier 3

Skill NameDescriptionRank 1Rank 2Rank 3Rank 4Cellular RegenerationWhether through secret experimentation or just plain healthy living, boosting the body's ability to naturally recover from injuries can mean the difference between life and deathSlightly increased chance to recover from injuries naturallyModerately increased chance to recover from injuries naturallyNoticeably increased chance to recover from injuries naturally20% chance of not gaining an injury when you otherwise wouldDecontaminationThrough a deliberate regiment of conditioning and antibody therapy, one may effectively combat even the Settled Systems' unseen threatsSlightly increased chance to recover from infections naturallyModerately increased chance to recover from infections naturallyNoticeably increased chance to recover from infections naturally20% chance of not gaining an infection when you otherwise wouldMartial ArtsThere are currently hundreds of martial arts practiced in the Settled Systems, some originating on ancient Earth, some newly created, almost all effective in combat15% increased chance to crit with a melee or unarmed attack15% increased chance to disarm an opponent with a melee or unarmed power attackWhile unarmed or wielding a melee weapon, take 10% less damageReflect 50% damage back when blocking a melee or unarmed attack

Starfield Physical Skills - Tier 4

Skill NameDescriptionRank 1Rank 2Rank 3Rank 4ConcealmentFew skills capture the imagination like the ability to remain undetected, used by assassins, special forces operatives, and simple thieves alike for centuriesYou no longer set off enemy mines. Ranged sneak attacks do 2.5x normal damage and your melee sneak attacks do 4x normal damageRunning while sneaking doesn't affect stealth. Ranged sneak attacks do 3x normal damage and your melee sneak attacks do 5x normal damageYou gain a Chameleon-like ability when completely still and sneaking. Ranged sneak attacks do 3.5x normal damage and your melee sneak attacks do 8x normal damageEngaging stealth causes distant enemies to lose you. Ranged sneak attacks do 4x normal damage and your melee sneak attacks do 10x normal damageNeurostrikesOnce considered the realm of fiction, the ability to disable an opponent without using a weapon is terrifyingly effective when performed by a skilled practitioner10% chance to stun an NPC with an unarmed attackUnarmed attacks now do additional EM damage20% chance to stun an NPC with an unarmed attackAfter stunning an enemy, you also knock down any enemies within close rangeRejuvenationUtilizing both ancient meditation techniques and newly developed breathing exercises, it's possible fore one to actually trigger their body's natural healing abilitySlowly regenerate health outside of combatRegenerate health more quickly outside of combatRegenerate health much faster outside of combat. You can now slowly regenerate health while in combatRegenerate health even faster outside of combat. You can now regenerate health quickly while in combat Image credit: Bethesda Softworks

Starfield Social Skills list

Divided into the Social Skill Tree's four tiers, below you'll find a list of all 16 Social Skills in Starfield:

Starfield Social Skills - Tier 1

Skill NameDescriptionRank 1Rank 2Rank 3Rank 4CommerceIn the Settled Systems' free market economy, almost anyone with the right skillset can open and run a successful businessBuy for 5% less and sell for 10%Buy for 10% less and sell for 15%Buy for 15% less and sell for 20%Buy for 20% less and sell for 25%GastronomyAccess to brand new worlds means access to brand new ingredients, and there is almost no limit to the delicious foods and drinks a talented chef can prepareYou can craft speciality food and drinks, and research additional recipes at a Research LabYou can research and craft gourmet food and drinksYou can research and craft food and drink delicaciesCrafting food and drinks occasionally doesn't use up resources. You can research and craft exotic recipesPersuasionIn the Settled Systems, the nuanced ability to listen and discuss can often accomplish far more than simply shooting first and asking questions later10% increased chance of success when persuading someone20% increased chance of success when persuading someone30% increased chance of success when persuading someone50% increased chance of success when persuading someoneScavengingThere are those who can find just about anything, and their success is usually dependent on incoming how, and where, to lookThere's a chance you'll find extra credits when searching containersThere's a chance you'll find extra ammo when searching containersThere's a chance you'll find extra aid items, like Med Packs or chems, when searching containersTracked resources will get highlighted when using the hand scannerTheftWhile not entirely honorable, and certainly not legal, it is nonetheless occasionally necessary to discreetly remove property from someone's personUnlock the ability to pickpocket targets10% greater chance to successfully pickpocket30% greater chance to successfully pickpocket50% greater chance to successfully pickpocket. Can now pickpocket holstered weapons

Starfield Social Skills - Tier 2

Skill NameDescriptionRank 1Rank 2Rank 3Rank 4DeceptionSmuggling and piracy are both immoral and highly illegal, and considered plagues upon the Settled Systems. But certain undercover work may require a certain criminal skillsetShips 10% stronger will automatically surrender to piracy demands. Enemy contraband scans are 10% less effectiveShips 20% stronger will automatically surrender to piracy demands. Enemy contraband scans are 20% less effectiveShips 30% stronger will automatically surrender to piracy demands. Enemy contraband scans are 30% less effectiveShips 50% stronger will automatically surrender to piracy demands. Enemy contraband scans are 50% less effectiveDiplomacyWhen a situation calls for words and not weapons, it's best to rely on those trained in statecraft and de-escalationYou can force a target NPC at or below your level to stop fighting for a whileYou can force a target NPC up to 10 levels higher than you to stop fighting for a whileYou can force a target NPC up to 20 levels higher than you to stop fighting for a whileYou can force target NPCs to permanently stop fighting (unless they're attacked again)IntimidationThe ability to strike fear into an opponent, causing them to flee so that you can escape or attack first, can prove critical in a battleYou can force a target NPC at or below your level to flee for a limited timeYou can force a target NPC up to 10 levels higher than you to flee for a limited timeYou can force a target NPC up to 20 levels higher than you to flee for a limited timeIntimidated targets now flee for substantial amount of timeIsolationBy eschewing team tactics and embracing the advantages of "lone wolf" operations, one can vastly improve their combat effectivenessDo +10% weapon damage and gain 15 Damage Resistance for each Spacesuit and Helmet equipped when you don't have a companion or any crewDo +20% weapon damage and gain 30 Damage Resistance for each Spacesuit and Helmet equipped when you don't have a companion or any crewDo +30% weapon damage and gain 45 Damage Resistance for each Spacesuit and Helmet equipped when you don't have a companion or any crewDo +40% weapon damage and gain 60 Damage Resistance for each Spacesuit and Helmet equipped when you don't have a companion or any crewNegotiationIn certain, more challenging communication, skillfully supplementing words with credits may help achieve the desired resultsYou now have access to Bribery in speech challengesReduces bribery cost by 25%Reduces bribery cost by 50%Occasionally, bribery won't cost any money

Starfield Social Skills - Tier 3

Skill NameDescriptionRank 1Rank 2Rank 3Rank 4InstigationWhen combat is required, it can be advantageous to convince others to do the fighting for youYou can force a target NPC at or below your level to attack their allies for a limited timeYou can force a target NPC up to 10 levels higher than you to attack their allies for a limited timeYou can force a target NPC up to 20 levels higher than you to attack their allies for a limited timeEnemies affected by Instigation will attack their allies until they are deadLeadershipTeamwork is the cornerstone of galactic survival, and nothing motivates a team more than a trained, decisive leaderCompanions gain affinity 25% fasterCompanions have 50 more health and 50kg more carrying capacityCompanions will occasionally heal you when you get low healthDoubles the bonuses of Combat and Physical Crew Skills on Companions. Companions have a chance to pick themselves up from a downed stateOutpost ManagementWhile constructing an outpost offers its own challenges, properly managing that outpost takes a special personality type, and specialized trainingAdditional cargo links can be placed at outpostsAdditional robots can be constructed at outpostsAdditional crew can be assigned at outpostsOutpost extractors produce twice as fast

Starfield Social Skills - Tier 4

Skill NameDescriptionRank 1Rank 2Rank 3Rank 4ManipulationRecent studies have shown that suggestion is not an art, but a science, and as such can be weaponized to exert control over the susceptibleYou can force a target NPC at or below your level to obey commands for a limited timeYou can force a target NPC up to 10 levels higher than you to obey commands for a limited timeYou can force a target NPC up to 20 levels higher than you to obey commands for a limited timeManipulated targets now obey commands for a substantial amount of timeShip CommandThey say a ship is only as good as its crew, but that is contingent upon that crew having the right captain to lead themYou can have up to four active crew membersYou can have up to five active crew membersYou can have up to six active crew membersYou can have up to eight active crew membersXenosociologyWhile sentient life has yet to be discovered, the galaxy's alien species are generally intelligent enough to be susceptible to the power of suggestionYou can force a target alien creature up to 10 levels higher than you to flee for a limited timeYou can force a target alien creature up to 10 levels higher than you to stop fighting for a limited timeYou can force a target alien creature up to 10 levels higher than you to attack their allies for a limited timeYou can force a target creature up to 10 levels higher than you to obey commands for a limited time Image credit: Bethesda Softworks

Starfield Combat Skills list

Divided into the Combat Skill Tree's four tiers, below you'll find a list of all 17 Combat Skills in Starfield:

Starfield Combat Skills - Tier 1

Skill NameDescriptionRank 1Rank 2Rank 3Rank 4BallisticsCenturies of conflict have proven that when it comes to threat elimination, few things stack up to the reliable power of high-speed projectilesBallistic weapons do 10% more damageBallistic weapons do 20% more damageBallistic weapons do 30% more damageBallistic weapons range is increased by 30%DuelingConsidered by many to be a lost art, close attacks with a melee weapon can often be deadlier than ranged combat when carried out by a skilled practitionerMelee weapons do 25% more damage. Take 10% less damage while wielding a melee weaponMelee kills make you run 20% faster for 10 secondsMelee weapons do 50% more damage. Take 15% less damage while wielding a melee weaponMelee kills heal you for 10% of your healthLasersPersonal laser weapons are in widespread use across the Settled Systems, and specialized training can greatly increase their effectivenessLaser weapons do 10% more damageLaser weapons do 20% more damageLaser weapons do 30% more damageLaser weapons have a 5% chance to set a target on firePistol CertificationConsidering the popularity of the personal sidearm in the Settled Systems, familiarity with such weapons is often considered essentialPistols do 10% more damagePistols do 25% more damagePistols do 50% more damagePistol kills grant +25% critical hit chance for 5 secondsShotgun CertificationThe cornerstone of close quarters combat, or CQC, the shotgun has proven a simple, deadly weapon for hundreds of yearsShotguns do 10% more damageShotguns do 20% more damageShotguns do 30% more damageShotgun kills grant a small chance to stun additional targets with shotguns for a limited time

Starfield Combat Skills - Tier 2

Skill NameDescriptionRank 1Rank 2Rank 3Rank 4DemolitionsWith the proper adjustment of chemical mixtures, coupled with modifications to the detonation mechanism, explosives can produce an even greater destructive yieldThrowing grenades now shows a trajectory arc. Explosions have a 25% larger radiusExplosives do 25% more damageReduce damage taken from explosives by 25%All previous bonuses are doubledHeavy Weapons CertificationOversized weapons may prove cumbersome to wield, but their excessive damage output can't be ignored, especially in the hands of a trained combatantHeavy weapons do 10% more damageHeavy weapons do 20% more damageHeavy weapons do 30% more damageGain 25% Physical resistance while aiming down sights with a heavy weaponIncapacitationEM weapons are generally employed to damage robots, but can also be used to render human beings unconsciousEM weapons do 5% more damageEM weapons do 10% more damageEM weapons do 15% more damageEM weapons have a 15% chance to do 300% EM damageParticle BeamsWhile considered by some to be exotic, particle weapons can be a devastating combat option, subjecting a target to multiple forms of damageParticle beam weapons do 10% more damageParticle beam weapons do 20% more damageParticle beam weapons do 30% more damageParticle beam weapons have +5% crit chanceRifle CertificationWhether used for combat, hunting, or some other deadly purpose, the rifle has become a mainstay of Settled Systems weaponryRifles do 10% more damageRifles do 20% more damageRifles do 30% more damageReload rifles 30% faster while you're standing still

Starfield Combat Skills - Tier 3

Skill NameDescriptionRank 1Rank 2Rank 3Rank 4MarksmanshipPerhaps no combat scenario is more frightening, or lethal, as a single-shot weapon wielded by someone skilled in critical shot placementIncrease critical hit chance with non-automatic ranged weapons by 3%Increase critical hit chance with non-automatic ranged weapons by 8%Increase critical hit chance with non-automatic ranged weapons by 15%Critical hits using a non-automatic ranged weapon without a scope do double damage and those with scopes knock down enemies on the next shotRapid ReloadingIn the chaos of combat, the seconds needed to reload your weapon could be the difference between life and deathReload Ballistic weapons 30% fasterReload Energy and EM weapons 30% fasterReload Particle Beam weapons 30% faster. 50% chance to avoid getting interrupted while reloadingChance on hitting enemies to increase reload speed for all weapons by 50% for 15 secondsSniper CertificationOnly a trained sniper truly understands all the elements necessary to patiently and effectively neutralize a target at excessive rangeScoped weapons are steadier and have less swayYou can hold your breath longer with scoped weaponsHeadshots while aiming with a scoped weapon have a +25% critical hit chanceScoped weapons do 50% more damage while using the scopeTargetingWhile careful aiming is generally preferred in combat, "shooting from the hip" can prove a fast and deadly alternative with sufficient trainingIncreased accuracy and range when shooting without aiming. Marks up to one enemy within 25m that damages youNotably increased accuracy and range when shooting without aiming. Marks up to two enemies within 50m that damage youGreatly increased accuracy and range when shooting without aiming. Marks up to three enemies within 75m that damage you10% chance to disarm targets hit when shooting without aiming. Marks up to four enemies within 100m that damage you

Starfield Combat Skills - Tier 4

Skill NameDescriptionRank 1Rank 2Rank 3Rank 4Armor PenetrationBy identifying gaps or weak points in body armor, an attacker can often gain a tactical advantage in combatAttacks ignore 15% of a target's armorAttacks ignore 30% of a target's armorAttacks ignore 50% of a target's armorEnemy armor is decreased by 25% for 6 secondsCripplingSpecifically targeting the pressure points and nerves of various limbs can disable an opponent, limiting their combat effectivenessHuman enemies have 30% increased chance to enter a downed state after taking enough damageHumanoid enemies have a 50% increased chance to not naturally recover from a downed stateHuman enemies now can enter a downed state earlierPrevious ranks now apply to all enemy types. You now do 100% more damage to downed enemiesSharpshootingFor those who specialize in precise targeting that maximizes damage, combat is often a quickly efficient affairIncrease headshot critical damage by 50% with ranged weaponsIncrease critical damage to enemy legs by 50% with ranged weaponsIncrease all critical damage to enemies by 50% with ranged weaponsRanged critical hit kills increase your critical hit chance with all ranged weapons by 25% for 20 seconds Image credit: Bethesda Softworks

Starfield Science Skills list

Divided into the Science Skill Tree's four tiers, below you'll find a list of all 16 Science Skills in Starfield:

Starfield Science Skills - Tier 1

Skill NameDescriptionRank 1Rank 2Rank 3Rank 4AstrodynamicsAdvanced technology is one thing, but it takes skill, patience, and a little bit of love to coax even more capability out of a ship's grav driveIncrease grav jump range of jump drives by 15%Reduced fuel cost of jump drives by 15%Increased grav jump range and reduced fuel cost of jump drives by 30%Reduced fuel cost of jump drives by 50%GeologyNewly discovered minerals mined from alien planets and moons have directly led to some incredible technological advancementsGet more common and uncommon inorganic resources from surface objectsGet more rare inorganic resources from surface objectsGet more exotic inorganic resources from surface objectsOccasionally harvest additional rarer resources from surface objectsMedicineOnly through advancements in medical training and technology has humanity been able to withstand the galaxy's many dangersMed Packs, Trauma Packs, and Emergency Kits restore 10% additional Health 10% fasterMed Packs, Trauma Packs, and Emergency Kits restore 20% additional Health 20% fasterMed Packs, Trauma Packs, and Emergency Kits restore 30% additional Health 30% fasterMed Packs, Trauma Packs, and Emergency Kits restore 50% additional Health 50% faster, and have a chance to cure an afflictionResearch MethodsBy skillfully employing both new and time tested methods, a researcher may complete projects faster, and even gain unexpected insightsResources required to craft items and complete research projects is reduced by 10%Resources required to craft items and complete research projects is reduced by 20%Resources required to craft items and complete research projects is reduced by 40%Sudden developments during research are twice as common. Resources required to craft items and complete research projects is reduced by 60%SurveyingHumanity now has access to untold alien worlds, and the ability to decipher all that data while on the ground has become an essential skillsetAdds an optional zoom to the hand scanner, and scan distance is increased by 20 metersAdds another level of zoom to the hand scanner, and scan distance is increased by 30 metersAdds another level of zoom to the hand scanner, and scan distance is increased by 40 metersAdds another level of zoom to the hand scanner, and scan distance is increased by 50 meters

Starfield Science Skills - Tier 2

Skill NameDescriptionRank 1Rank 2Rank 3Rank 4BotanyThe scientific study of flora, while important on Earth, became even more essential as humanity began exploring alien worldsGet more common and uncommon organic resources from plants, learn additional info about them from the scanner, and allows some plants to be cultivated at your outpostsGet more rare organic resources from plants, and learn information about them more quickly using the scannerGet more exotic organic resources from plants, and learn information about them more quickly using the scannerOccasionally harvest additional rarer resources from plants, and learn information about them more quickly using the scannerScanningWhile anyone can use a ship's scanner, it takes a specially trained operator to detect hard-to-find planetary resources, or uncover the details of nearby shipsYou can detect uncommon inorganic resources on planet and moon surfaces, and more information about ships in spaceYou can detect rare inorganic resources on planet and moon surfaces, and more specific information about ships in spaceYou can detect exotic inorganic resources on planet and moon surfaces, and gain better combat information about ships in spaceYou can detect unique inorganic resources on planet and moon surfaces, and gain a complete list of cargo on ships in spaceSpacesuit DesignWhile a basic spacesuit can protect one from the vacuum of space, it takes a specialized design to withstand the rigors of many alien worldsYou can craft improved spacesuit, helmet, and pack mods, and research additional mods at a Research LabYou can research and craft superior spacesuit, helmet, and pack modsYou can research and craft cutting-edge spacesuit, helmet, and pack modsConstruction of spacesuit, helmet, and pack mods occasionally doesn't cost resourcesWeapon EngineeringLife in the 24th century can be exceedingly dangerous, and the ability to maintain and modify personal weapons can be essential to one's survivalYou can craft improved weapon mods at a Weapon Workbench, and research additional weapon mods at a Research LabYou can research and craft superior weapon modsYou can research and craft cutting-edge weapon modsYou can research and craft master-level weapon modsZoologyNo one could have expected the number of new species encountered on alien worlds, or the importance of those skilled in their behavior and domesticationGet more common organic resources from creatures and harvest from them without harming them, learn additional info about them from the scanner, and allows you to produce animal resources at your outpostsGet more uncommon organic resources from creatures, and learn information about them more quickly using the scannerGet more rare organic resources from creatures, and learn information about them more quickly using the scannerOccasionally harvest additional rarer resources from creatures, and learn information about them more quickly using the scanner

Starfield Science Skills - Tier 3

Skill NameDescriptionRank 1Rank 2Rank 3Rank 4AstrophysicsA ship's scanner receives vast amounts of data, but it takes a trained mind to efficiently analyze it allYou can scan the moons of your current planet. You have a 10% chance to discover a trait when scanningYou can scan any planet or moon in this system. You have a 20% chance to discover a trait when scanningYou can scan any planet or moon within 16 Light Years. You have a 30% chance to discover a trait when scanningYou can scan any planet or moon within 30 Light Years. You have a 50% chance to discover a trait when scanningChemistryWhen crafted by the skilled and safety conscious, chems can be used to enhance health and performance across the Settled SystemsYou can create improved chems, and research additional chems at a Research LabYou can research and create superior chemsYou can research and create cutting-edge chemsCrafting chems occasionally triples the amount createdOutpost EngineeringProper construction of habitation modules is essential to one's survival on any alien worldYou can construct improved outpost modules, and research additional modules at a Research LabYou can research and construct superior outpost modulesYou can research and construct cutting-edge outpost modulesOutpost modules now cost 50% fewer resources to build

Starfield Science Skills - Tier 4

Skill NameDescriptionRank 1Rank 2Rank 3Rank 4Aneutronic FusionIt is possible to maximize a ship's energy output by specifically directing the unique nuclear processes that occur within its reactorShip reactors produce 1 extra unit of powerShip reactors produce 2 extra units of powerShip reactors produce 3 extra units of powerShip reactors produce 5 extra units of powerPlanetary HabitationWhile outpost building is always challenging, doing so on a world with a dangerous environment requires specialized trainingYou can build outposts on planets with extreme temperatures (Deep Freeze and Inferno). Increase the maximum number of Outposts you can build by 4You can build outposts on planets with extreme pressure. Increase the maximum number of Outposts you can build by 8You can build outposts on planets with toxic or corrosive atmospheres. Increase the maximum number of Outposts you can build by 12You can build outposts on planets with extreme gravity. Increase the maximum number of Outposts you can build by 16Special ProjectsBig guns are great, but in the Settled Systems, sometimes the best weapon is simply an old adage: "Knowledge is Power"You can research experimental projects at a Research LabYou can craft rare manufactured components at an Industrial WorkbenchYou can craft exotic manufactured components at an Industrial WorkbenchYou can craft unique manufactured components at an Industrial Workbench. Outpost extractors have a chance to produce additional resources Image credit: Bethesda

Starfield Tech Skills list

Divided into the Tech Skill Tree's four tiers, below you'll find a list of all 17 Tech Skills in Starfield:

Starfield Tech Skills - Tier 1

Skill NameDescriptionRank 1Rank 2Rank 3Rank 4Ballistic Weapon SystemsWhile there have been significant advancements in ship-borne weaponry, sometimes the simplest tool is the most effectiveBallistic ship weapons have 10% increased damage and cost 20% less to use in Targeting ModeBallistic ship weapons have 20% increased damage and recharge 15% fasterBallistic ship weapons have 30% increased damage and recharge 30% fasterBallistic ship weapons do 50% more damage to individual systemsBoost Pack TrainingSpecialized training and innovations in personal mobility systems have allowed for unfettered exploration on alien worldsYou can now utilize boost packsUsing a boost packs expends less fuelBoost pack fuel regenerates more quicklyDoubles previous bonusesPilotingAs more people journey into space, the number of those certified to effectively pilot various types of spacecraft has increased dramaticallyYou can now utilize ship thrustersIncreased ship turning rate and maneuverabilityUnlock the ability to pilot Class B shipsUnlock the ability to pilot Class C shipsSecurityWhile the standardized digital locking mechanism is renowned for its security, any code can be broken with the proper trainingYou can attempt to hack Advanced locks, and 2 auto attempts can be bankedYou can attempt to hack Expert locks, and 3 auto attempts can be banked. Rings now turn blue when the pick can be slottedYou can attempt to hack Master-level locks, and 4 auto attempts can be bankedExpend a digipick to eliminate keys that aren't required to solve the puzzle. 5 auto attempts can be bankedTargeting Control SystemsMissile weapons are favoured because they can lock onto an enemy ship, but an intimate knowledge of tracking systems can make then even more effectiveUnlocks ship targeting functionallyTime to lock onto enemy ships is reduced by 15%. Target-locked ships fire at you 25% slowerTime to lock onto enemy ships is reduced by 30%. You have a 10% increased chance of critically hitting a target-locked shipTime to lock onto enemy ships is reduced by 60%. Deal 20% increased system damage in targeting mode

Starfield Tech Skills - Tier 2

Skill NameDescriptionRank 1Rank 2Rank 3Rank 4Energy Weapon SystemsIn the 24th Century, advancements in energy weapons technology have revolutionized combat, as much in space as on the groundEnergy ship weapons have 10% increased damage and cost 15% less to use in Targeting ModeEnergy ship weapons have 20% increased damage and cost 30% less to use in Targeting ModeEnergy ship weapons have 30% increased damage and cost 45% less to use in Targeting ModeEnergy ship weapons recharge 30% fasterEngine SystemsSpace is both vast and dangerous, and the ability to push a ship's engine to increase speed can be done safely and effectively, with the right trainingYour ship's top speed is increased by 10%Ship boosts last longer and the cooldown is shorterYour ship's top speed in increased by 20%While boosting, all enemies disengage the player and can only reacquire them as a target after the player stops boostingPayloadsAny pilot can haul cargo, but it takes special determination and training to maximize cargo spaceShip cargo holds have 10% more capacityShip cargo holds have 20% more capacityShip cargo holds have 30% more capacityShip cargo holds have 50% more capacityShield SystemsRegardless of the power allocated by the reactor, a ship's shields can be further bolstered by direct manipulation of the system's harmonicsYour ship has 20% increased shield capacityYour ship has 40% increased shield capacityYour ship has 60% increased shield capacityYour shields will occasionally resist 100% of all damage received

Starfield Tech Skills - Tier 3

Skill NameDescriptionRank 1Rank 2Rank 3Rank 4Missile Weapon SystemsIn space, few weapons can match the range and destructive power of missiles, especially in the hands of a skilled tacticianShip missile weapons do 10% more damage, and their Targeting mode cost is reduced by 20%Ship missile weapons do 20% more damage, and their Targeting mode cost is reduced by 40%Ship missile weapons do 30% more damage, and their Targeting mode cost is reduced by 60%Ship missiles have 20% increased Range, Travel Speed, and Reload SpeedParticle Beam Weapon SystemsShip weapons utilizing particle beam technology are the preferred choice for captains who prefer to damage multiple ship systems at onceShip particle beam weapons do 10% more damage, and Targeting mode cost is reduced by 10%Ship particle beam weapons do 20% more damage, and Targeting mode cost is reduced by 20%Ship particle beam weapons do 30% more damage, and Targeting mode cost is reduced by 30%Increased critical hit chance with ship particle beam weaponsRoboticsIn an age where robots and autonomous turrets are employed in a combat capacity, the study of robotics can be instrumental in gaining a tactical edgeYou deal 10% more damage to Robots and Turrets. You can force a target robot up to 10 levels higher than you to stop fighting for a limited timeYou deal 20% more damage to Robots and Turrets. You can force a target robot up to 10 levels higher than you to flee for a limited timeYou deal 30% more damage to Robots and Turrets. You can force a target robot up to 10 levels higher than you to attack their allies for a limited timeYou can force a target robot up to 10 levels higher than you to obey commands for a limited timeStarship DesignAs with "car culture" on Earth centuries ago, there are those who pride themselves on the ability to modify their own spaceshipsAllows the installation of improved ship modulesAllows the installation of superior ship modulesAllows the installation of cutting-edge ship modulesAllows the installation of experimental ship modulesStarship EngineeringIt takes skilled hands to not only make a ship's systems more resistant to damage, but to repair those systems efficiently when damage does occurAll ship systems repair 10% fasterShip systems have 25% increased damage mitigationAll ship systems repair 25% fasterOccasionally, repairing one block of a system will repair the entire system

Starfield Tech Skills - Tier 4

Skill NameDescriptionRank 1Rank 2Rank 3Rank 4Automated Weapon SystemsTurret weapons are known for their easy-to-use, autonomous nature, but they can be made even deadlier with some specific technical adjustmentsAutomated ship weapons do 10% more damage and reduce all targeting mode costs by 20%Automated ship weapons do 20% more damage and reduce all targeting mode costs by 30%. Your ship takes 20% less damage while in targeting modeAutomated ship weapons do 30% more damage and reduce all targeting mode costs by 40%. Increases crit chance against targeted sub-systems by 20%Ship turret weapons recharge 40% faster and do 20% more damage to targeted sub-systemsBoost Assault TrainingCombat training with boost packs allows for more shock and awe tacticsNearby enemies take damage when you boost and have a chance to catch on fireChance to knockdown nearby enemies when you boostAiming down sights while boosting will let you hover in place. Fuel is still expended until emptyWhile hovering, time slows down and the world moves 70% slower around youEM Weapon SystemsIn the hands of a capable pilot, no weapons can disable an enemy ship faster than those that deliver electromagnetic damageEM ship weapons have 10% increased damage and cost 15% less to use in Targeting ModeEM ship weapons have 20% increased damage and cost 30% less to use in Targeting ModeEM ship weapons have 30% increased damage and cost 45% less to use in Targeting ModeEM ship weapons have a small chance of instantly disabling enemy engines Image credit: Bethesda Softworks

All the best building your skills in Starfield!

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