Star Citizen Free Fly 2026 – Beginner Checklist

Free Fly is a limited-time event where you can try Star Citizen without buying a game package. A free RSI account is still required to play. New players often make predictable setup mistakes—usually around account creation and purchases. This checklist helps you avoid wasted money or confusion.

Not sure if Star Citizen is right for you?
Read the full decision guide before creating an account.

Is Star Citizen for you?

Two important rules

1) If you want the referral bonus, the referral code must be applied during account creation (it generally can’t be added later).
2) Game access comes from a game package, not from buying a standalone ship.

Before You Create an Account

If you want the referral bonus, the referral code must be applied during account creation. It generally can’t be added later.

Referral bonus (new accounts)

50,000 UEC is granted after your first qualifying purchase (minimum $40). All starter packages qualify.

Create Free RSI Account

Referral code: STAR-CW5S-4N4N

Using a referral code is optional. It does not link accounts together in-game — it simply gives you a free head start.

Important:

Buy a game package, not just a standalone ship. A standalone ship purchase alone does not grant game access.

Free Fly Beginner Checklist

Referral eligibility is set at account creation.
After first qualifying purchase ($40+), 50,000 UEC is applied.
Starter packs normally include 10,000 UEC.
Event-linked packs may include 20,000 UEC or more.
Free Fly events sometimes add “first purchase” bonuses (often armor or FPS gear, occasionally ground vehicles).

Always verify package contents on the store page before purchasing.

View Official Game Packages →

Already have an RSI account?

If your account was created without a referral, you generally can’t add one later (there’s only a limited grace window).

Need help in-game? Use the Guide System

Star Citizen includes a built-in Guide System. You can browse guides by topic and language and request assistance.