Paizo's tabletop RPG Starfinder is set in the distant future of its Pathfinder universe and takes players on new journeys filled with science fiction and fantasy. The world of Starfinder is vast, with seemingly endless options for character creation, weapons and equipment, and gameplay options that could easily overwhelm anyone who might consider joining the futuristic expedition.

While the extensive lore and material may seem like a massive hurdle for new players -- even those who have played Pathfinder -- there are a few key pieces that will help introduce newcomers to this lore and provide the knowledge to turn the hurdle into a small step. These five books provide beginners with everything needed to understand the game and dive right into their first Starfinder adventure.

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The Core Rulebook Provides New Players With the Fundamentals

3 warriors on the Starfinder cover

The Core Rulebook is the perfect starting point for any newcomers venturing into Starfinder. This book includes steps for character creation, including all classes, themes, and races, with detailed backgrounds on each. Skills and statistics are explained in-depth, highlighting everything players need to know when creating the perfect character for their journey. The Core Rulebook covers tactical rules, weapons statistics, equipment statistics, and magic and spells experienced throughout gameplay.

Along with helpful instructions for players, GMs will also find this book incredibly useful as it explains their role in building the adventure. The eleventh chapter specifically discusses the GM's duties and how to set up the game environment, create encounters, and keep track of character statistics.

The Character Operations Manual Provides Additional Options to GMs and Players

The Technomancer Class in Starfinder hodling out her arms and emitting green energy

The Character Operations Manual is a must-have for new adventurers as it provides more content options and information not included in the Core Rulebook. Seven new themes are introduced, along with three new classes, two new roles for starship combat, and new spells. This manual includes specifications on shield usage and advises how to set up each new theme and class, providing details on which stats players will want to lean toward and boost.

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GMs are given important guidance in this book as well, with new rules involving their role in the game. Perhaps one of the most useful sections for GMs discusses how to handle player downtime, as some scenarios involve players waiting a set amount of time before proceeding with their adventure. During these times, players may engage in downtime activities that can boost their characters for upcoming activities.

The Starfinder Armory Is a Must-Have for Weapon & Gear Variety

Starfinder Drone Companion holding out a five barrel gun

The Starfinder Armory is another essential book for newcomers to have in their arsenal. A variety of new weapons, armor suits, technology, and magic are introduced with a detailed visual representation of each item. This addition allows players more control over their character creation and allows for easier replication of classic favorites from other properties. The organization of detail in this book is exquisite and includes thorough explanations of each item, so newcomers can understand how a certain weapon or armor suit will impact their character.

Another interesting aspect of the Armory is background on each weapon's manufacturer. Players and GMs can include these manufacturers in their games and add an extra layer of fun to their sessions, while also learning more about the lore and history of Starfinder's equipment.

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The Alien Archive Is Full of Useful Info on Extraterrestrials

Heroes fight an alien swarm in Starfinder

While there are four volumes under this title, the first Alien Archive is widely regarded as one of the most important books for new players. This book provides players with useful information regarding the alien lifeforms that reside in Starfinder's massive universe, including a detailed history of each species. Racial traits and stats are included along with weapon descriptions for players who wish to use one of these creatures as their player race.

This comprehensive guide introduces more lore to players, adding another layer of intrigue. It includes creature statistics for each challenge level and describes the attributes one would possess at a given level. The Alien Archive also outlines how the GM would create these creatures for NPC interaction and player combat, including the requirements a player must meet to use an alien's weapon after combat and the stats and abilities of that weapon.

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Junker's Delight Is the Perfect Starting Point for Newcomers

The starfinder soldier leading the group into battle

When deciding to embark on that first grand adventure, Junker's Delight is a great starting point. This adventure is tailored for beginners and helps players and GMs understand the logistics of the Starfinder system, providing explanations of combat mechanics, exploration activities, diplomacy efforts, and more. Newcomers will embark on an exciting journey while learning the basics of character creation and gameplay in a manner appropriate for a novice player.

Junker's Delight was the first standalone adventure for Starfinder and was specifically designed for 1st-level characters. While many adventures take players down multiple paths, this one features a linear plot with little opportunity for deviation to allow people a comfortable entry into the world of tabletop RPGs. Seasoned veterans can enjoy the appeal of this adventure while using it as a means of introduction for friends and family who have an interest in Starfinder without overwhelming them with the complexity of a more rigorous adventure.