Starfield backgrounds explained
While we wait for the launch of Starfield, Bethesda Softworks has been drip-feeding us background information about our characters. Similar to the Dragon Age: Origins backgrounds, these affect your starting abilities, dialogue options, and potentially the narrative.
So far, there are 16 named Starfield backgrounds, each with unique features and abilities. For example, Beast Hunter provides a skill that makes it easier to sneak up on and attack beast-like enemies. Bouncer grants a damage reduction bonus while wearing a security suit. Chef provides a healing item that increases your health regeneration. Depending on your background, these could be combat- or non-combat oriented abilities, but they all offer something in Starfield. Here is a list of all Starfield backgrounds we know about so far.
All Starfield backgrounds
Here are all the Starfield backgrounds we know about:
Cyber Runner - Cyber Runners are characters that have spent their lives dedicated to hacking, with skills that include the ability to hack terminals and take control of security drones.
Bouncer - Bouncers were once security specialists who now own and run bars and clubs. They can use a shield to protect and heal themselves, as well as throw bar stools as makeshift weapons.
Combat Medic - Combat Medics are trained doctors who are prepared to use more lethal force in order to protect themselves and others.
Cyberneticist - Cyberneticists focus on practical applications of technical skills. They can hack terminals and security devices, and can use their technical abilities to repair mechanical objects.
Diplomat - Diplomats are skilled at resolving conflicts peacefully and diplomatically.
Explorer - Explorers tend to be thrill-seekers and experts at discovering new things. They can perform quick scans and are equipped with a jetpack to explore the farthest reaches of space.
Gangster - Gangsters are criminals with a reputation for being tough, ruthless, and intimidating.
Homesteader - Homesteaders are farmers or settlers with a long history of living on alien worlds.
Industrialist - Industrialists are bartering experts, and have a disdain for blue-collar workers.
Long Hauler - Long Haulers are space truckers who are accustomed to spending long periods of time alone on the job. Their skills emphasize freedom and solitude.
Pilgrim - Pilgrims are religious people who travel to holy places, often in search of religious artifacts.
Professor - Professors are intellectuals with a passion for science and discovery. They likely have scientific skills, and may even be on a quest to find alien artifacts.
Ronin - Ronins are mercenaries who may be rebellious and combat-oriented.
Starfield backgrounds explained
That’s everything we know about Starfield backgrounds, for now. Make sure you also check out our Starfield companions guide for details on the companions you can recruit on your journey through the cosmos. We have plenty of Starfield guides, too, including a full rundown of all the Starfield perks and how they affect your game, as well as an explanation of all the Starfield alien factions you can encounter.
