Getting Started In X3: Terran Conflict

X3: Terran Conflict is a complex and challenging game with a steep learning curve. It can be difficult to get started, especially as there is no in-game tutorial. However, there are many resources available to help new players get to grips with the game, including video tutorials, online forums, and written guides. These can help players learn the controls, navigate the interface, and understand the game mechanics. With patience and persistence, players can master the basics of X3: Terran Conflict and begin to explore the vast universe the game has to offer.

Navigating the HUD

The HUD, or heads-up display, in X3: Terran Conflict is an interface that provides you with important information during gameplay. It can be customised with mods to change its appearance, but the default HUD provides a range of features to help you navigate and play the game.

One key feature of the HUD is the map. The map can be used to navigate to different sectors, and it also displays information about the current sector, such as the names of nearby sectors and the distance to them. The HUD also includes a radar, which shows the positions of objects and ships in your current sector. This can be useful for finding your way around, avoiding obstacles, and identifying potential threats.

The HUD also provides information about your ship's status, including its speed, direction, and shield strength. This information is crucial for making tactical decisions during combat or when travelling through dangerous sectors. It can also be used to monitor your ship's performance and identify any issues that need addressing.

Additionally, the HUD displays the current mission objectives and any relevant information or updates. This helps you stay focused on your goals and makes it easier to track your progress. The HUD also includes a range of menus and options that allow you to customise your gameplay experience, such as changing control settings and managing your inventory.

Overall, the HUD in X3: Terran Conflict is a valuable tool that provides a wealth of information to help you navigate and play the game effectively. Learning to interpret and utilise the information displayed on the HUD is an important part of mastering the game.

Understanding the learning curve

X3: Terran Conflict is a complex game with a steep learning curve. The game does not offer an in-game tutorial, which can make it difficult for new players to get started. However, understanding the learning curve and following some initial steps can help players get a grip on the game.

The first step is to choose the right starting point and mission type. The "Humble Merchant" mission is a good option as it starts with two ships, one of which is a reasonable freighter. The player can sell the other ship, a scout ship, to get some initial credits. Making money and improving your ship, or acquiring a better one, is crucial in the early stages of the game. Short delivery missions can be challenging at first, but investing in a jump drive can help complete them more efficiently.

To make money, players can consider buying and selling ore or trading goods. It is important to use the software to identify profitable deals. Trading can be slow at first, but with patience and smart trading, players can accumulate substantial wealth. Once players have sufficient funds, they can invest in additional freighters or explore other aspects of the game, such as exploring, piracy, or military missions.

The game also offers a range of software and equipment that can aid in various aspects, such as trading, exploration, and combat. Players should familiarise themselves with the different options available and invest in upgrades that align with their chosen playstyle.

While the learning curve is steep, players can benefit from seeking guidance from online resources, such as official forums, guides, and video tutorials. These resources can provide valuable insights and strategies to help players navigate the complex mechanics of the game.

Overall, X3: Terran Conflict rewards players who are willing to invest time and effort into understanding its intricacies. By starting with the right approach, players can gradually master the game and unlock new possibilities as they progress.

Choosing a starting point

X3: Terran Conflict is a complex game with a steep learning curve, but it's also a rewarding one. The game does not offer an in-game tutorial, so it's important to choose a suitable starting point to get to grips with the basics.

The first decision to make is whether to start with the X3: Terran Conflict or X3: Reunion. If you have the option, it's recommended to start with the former, as it has an easier interface with better mouse control for fights and navigation.

Once you've made that decision, it's time to choose your starting location and mission. The Humble Merchant mission is a good choice, as you start with two ships: a reasonable freighter and a scout ship. You can sell the scout ship, as it's worth more than its utility.

Another option is to begin with the Argon Combat Pilot mission, which starts you with a fighter ship. This mission will help you get to grips with the basics of flying and combat, but it's more challenging as you'll need to earn money and buy a better ship to progress.

If you're feeling adventurous, you can choose a more advanced starting point, such as the Boron mission, which offers a unique experience.

Finally, don't be afraid to experiment with different starting points and missions. Part of the fun of X3: Terran Conflict is discovering what works best for you and developing your own strategies.

How to make money

To make money in X3 Terran Conflict, you can start by selling your discoverer ship and buying a second ship. You can then grind energy and ore runs in Argon sector mines, selling the resources in Argon Prime and Home of Light.

Another way to make money is to find a pirate sector and use a ship with speed and a freight scanner to scan all ships. You can get a lot of money doing this, and it's fairly easy. You can also get multiple ship scan missions from different pirate ships/factories/bases, and each ship you scan will count towards all of these missions.

You can also repair your ship using your space suit repair laser, which will save you a lot of money. It's also a good idea to get a jump drive, as the faster you complete missions and trades, the more money you will make.

You can claim abandoned ships and repair them, then sell them or use them to set up automated traders. You can also make money by completing missions, which will get more lucrative as your Economic and Combat ranks increase.

How to buy and sell ships

To buy and sell ships in X3 Terran Conflict, you must first locate a shipyard. Ships can be purchased directly from shipyards, and the ships available for purchase will depend on your ranking with the faction the shipyard is affiliated with. As your relationship with a faction improves, you will be able to purchase more types of ships and stations from their shipyards.

To sell a ship, you must not be piloting it. The ship must be parked at a shipyard, and you must either be present at the shipyard in a different ship or have the trading system extension to sell it remotely. You can sell a ship by opening the trade menu with the shipyard and selecting the ship from the list of your ships at the top. Note that you will not be able to tell which ship is which if you have multiple ships of the same model, so it is recommended to change the names of your ships before selling or check the value of the sale. Selling a ship will also sell all cargo, equipped weapons, and docked ships on that ship.

You can transfer cargo and equipment from one ship to another if both ships are docked at the same station. From the 'Main Menu', select 'Station', then 'Ships'. Select the ship you want to transfer items from or to, and then scroll down to 'Freight Exchange'. This will display a list of the contents of both ships, and you can use the left/right cursors to transfer items.

Additionally, you can order a ship to dock at the nearest trading station by selecting 'Dock at nearest trading station' from the ship's command console.

Frequently asked questions