Star Citizen beginner glossary
Quick definitions for the beginner terms that actually block you in guides, menus, and first sessions — then you can jump back to the page you were using.
Quick answer
This is a support page, not a main route. Look up the blocked term, get unstuck, then jump back to the guide or decision page you were following.
- This page is a helper, not the main route. Look up one term, solve the confusion, then return to the guide you were using.
- Read only what you need right now, then go back to your guide.
- Most confusion disappears once you understand Free Fly, Starter packs, and ASOP/Claim.
- Tip: if performance is bad, fix that first—otherwise every “is it worth it?” moment gets harder to judge fairly.
Key terms
| Term | Meaning (1 sentence) | Go deeper |
|---|---|---|
| aUEC / UEC | In‑game currency used to buy gear, ship components, rentals, and services. | Open |
| Starter pack / Game package | A required purchase to play outside Free Fly; it includes game access and usually a starter ship. | Open |
| Free Fly | A limited-time trial where you can play without buying—perfect for testing performance and deciding. | Open |
| Referral code | An optional code entered during account creation that can add a signup bonus. | Open |
| ASOP terminal | The in‑game kiosk where you spawn, claim, and retrieve your ships in a hangar or station. | Open |
| Claim | An insurance recovery flow to restore a destroyed ship; you use it at ASOP. | Open |
| Quantum travel (QT) | The long-distance travel mode between locations; you typically spool and calibrate to markers. | Open |
| Bounty | A combat contract track that scales with your license and ship capability. | Open |
| Courier mission | A simple delivery contract—great for first credits and learning navigation. | Open |
| Stutter | Frame-time spikes that feel like hitching; often improved by SSD, RAM headroom, and clean settings. | Open |
Best next steps
Main first-session guide
Best next step if one blocked term interrupted your main beginner flow.
Free Fly guide
Use this if the blocked term is really about trying the game before buying.
Should you buy?
Use this if the blocked term is part of the bigger buy-or-wait decision.
Performance guide
Use this if the blocked term sits inside a bad first impression caused by performance.
FAQ
+Do I need to memorize all of this?
No. Use this page as a lookup. Most guides link back here for the few terms that matter in that moment.
+Why does SCB use satellites for terms?
Short, focused pages help you find answers fast and help search engines understand the topic map.
+What’s the one term I should learn first?
Free Fly and Starter pack. That choice determines your best beginner path.
+What’s the most common beginner mistake?
Trying to learn everything at once. Pick one path, do one small loop, then expand.