Starfieldis practically overflowing with alien lifeforms, incredible flora & fauna, and countless mysteries that beg to be examined. From the moment the player steps foot on the Frontier and begins their journey with Constellation, there will be a non-stop barrage of points of interest, all of which can be explored at the players leisure. However, with so much to explore, the player may wonder how on earth they are supposed to know and remember what everything is.Starfieldsolves this issue by introducing one of the game’s key mechanics: the scanner.
The scanner will serve as the player’s unofficial guide through every world and every encounter. Working in tandem with the player, the scanner will become more helpful the more it is used, even providing a small yet reliable source of income. This guide will explain precisely how the scanner can be used to truly enhancethe journey throughStarfield.
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How to Use the Scanner in Starfield
The scanner is more than just a tool inStarfield, it is an entire mode of gameplay that fundamentally alters the information received. The simple answer to the question “How do I use the Scanner?” is to simply press the LB button (or equivalent) to enter what is essentially ‘Scanner Mode.’ This will change the HUD, replacing the clear field of view with a circular scanning window.
This window has the ability to relay a significant amount of information to the player. Some of the key uses of the scanner are as follows:
How to Upgrade the Scanner in Starfield
When players use the scanner early in the game, there will be several types of materials it will be incapable of recognizing. To expand its capabilities, the player can upgrade the scannerthrough the Science skill tree. Use the following skills:
These skills will make the process of scanning and surveying considerably easier.
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Where to Sell Survey Slates in Starfield
Whenever a planet survey is completely finished, the player will receive a slate (digital information holder) that can be sold to various vendors around the systems. The value of these slates is determined by the complexity of the planet it represents. A simple planet like Neptune will be worth very little compared to planets with a large amount of organic and inorganic resources.
The slates can be sold at Trade Authority Kiosks, but playing through the game will reveal various vendors that may offer a better price. Eventually the player will meet Vladimir at the Eye, a floating space station above Jemison. He cannot be missed if following the main quests, and is encountered early on. Speaking with him will reveal that he is not only interested in the data, but will offer the best prices.
Starfieldis available now on Xbox Series X/S and PC.
