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About Elite Dangerous
Elite Dangerous brings the classic 1984 open‑world space adventure into a modern, massively multiplayer setting. The Milky Way’s 400‑billion star systems are rendered using real astronomical data, offering a seamless, player‑shaped galaxy to explore. Pilots command over 35 ship types, customizing components, weapons and modules to suit any playstyle, from trade to combat. Solo or in a Wing of up to three friends, players influence an evolving narrative through exploration, economy, and community‑driven events.
01 / THE GUIDE
Galaxy Scale and Real‑World Data
The game’s universe spans 400 billion star systems, each built from authentic astronomical information. Stars, planets, moons, asteroid belts and black holes appear at true galactic scale, letting commanders chart routes to never‑visited systems.
Exploration can extend to planetary surfaces using a Surface Recon Vehicle, providing a ground‑level view of strange worlds. The sheer size ensures that each journey feels unique and uncharted.
- Use the in‑game map to identify systems without prior visits; they often contain valuable resources.
- Plan fuel stops ahead of long jumps to avoid being stranded in remote space.
02 / THE GUIDE
Ship Customisation
Players can acquire over 35 distinct spacecraft, ranging from light explorers to massive battle‑ready behemoths. Every ship can be outfitted with a variety of components, weapons and optional modules.
Customising these parts alters a ship’s capabilities, allowing pilots to tailor performance for trading, mining, combat or exploration.
- Balance power and weight when adding weapons to maintain maneuverability.
- Experiment with different module combinations to find a setup that matches your preferred activities.
03 / THE GUIDE
Multiplayer Modes
Elite Dangerous offers Solo mode for isolated play and Open Play for a shared universe where every pilot may become an ally or adversary. Up to three friends can join a Wing for cooperative missions.
Community Goal events let players collaborate on large‑scale objectives that can permanently change the galaxy, rewarding participants with exclusive items.
- Join a Squadron to find regular Wing partners and coordinated activities.
- Participate in Community Goals early to maximize your impact on the evolving narrative.
04 / THE GUIDE
Powerplay System
Commanders may align with a galactic superpower, influencing the interstellar landscape through Powerplay. Actions include hacking starport ads, attacking Stronghold Carriers, or supporting allied infrastructure.
Contributions affect the balance of power, allowing players to expand influence or undermine rivals.
- Focus on one superpower’s objectives to earn higher rewards and recognition.
- Coordinate attacks on Stronghold Carriers with Wing members for greater success.
05 / THE GUIDE
System Colonisation
The System Colonisation mechanic lets commanders claim and develop star systems. Players can create economies, trade hubs or operational ports, shaping the galaxy’s future.
These personal colonies persist, offering long‑term goals beyond immediate missions.
- Start colonisation in a resource‑rich system to boost early trade income.
- Maintain defensive assets to protect your colony from rival players.
COMMUNITY
Player discussion