Elite:Dangerous. Getting Started

Setting up the game

This step is crucial because Elite: Dangerous has many possible inputs. You must browse through huge list and rebind anything as you want and don't forget to write down all that to paper. Also take a look at Graphic and Audio settings and tweak them depending on your PC. E:D will run fine on mid level PC but same time it's future proof – that means there are many high graphic settings available now or will be available soon that no current generation PC will be able to run, but after 4-5 years you can enjoy E:D universe in a completely different look when you upgrade your rig. So take your time to bind keys, write them down or find and download from forum already pre-made custom.binds file. Badly configured input will give you nothing but frustration. Ask any of your questions on forums – you will get help there.

I am not including default keys in this guide because then i should add at least 3 version for each action described – keyboard, gamepad and hotas.

Getting used to controls

Don't rush, this is not your typical game with X hour gameplay content – you will have more fun if you know what you are doing. So i would suggest you head straight to single player Combat Scenarios and try first one called Waste Disposal. There you can take all time you need to rebind desired keys, jump from Setting screen to game, test all your changes on the fly and shoot down containers. You can even practice cargo scoop (not required by mission) but just to get the hang of it. When you are satisfied with your input and flying you can proceed further.

We are all different and someone already has extensive experience with Flight Simulation games while others never played any, also someone learns controls faster when is fighting while others need to take it slow – only you know what's best for you – so do exactly what is best.

Learning how to fight

E:D is not a game about fight, it's a game about freedom and choices, but combat still is big part of this Milky Way galaxy so can't be ignored. I would suggest you go and play with single player Combat Scenarios finishing them one by one, learning different tactics, weapons, power management and meet different enemies.

The second scenario called First Kill is especially good if you are planning to use Flight Assist OFF – because the enemy has no shield generator and will mostly be defensive, so take a shot at him and try to stay on his tail with Flight Assist Off. Practice as long as you want, just keep in mind – there are ships suited for combat and ships that are not and Sidewinder is not suited for combat so don't get frustrated when you can't do much with it.