How to open a map in Starfield? Starfield guide, tips
In Starfield, you will find a topographical map, but it is not one of the most readable maps. In this guide, you will learn how to use the map.
Last update: 04 September 2023
Starfield offers a huge world, so navigating with a map is sometimes necessary, although you will quickly understand that Starfield essentially does not have a real map. The game only has a topographic map that is rather hard to read.
How to open a map in Starfield?
To open it, you just need to press the M key on the keyboard. You can assign a different key in the game options. If you are playing on a controller, things are a little bit more complicated. You need to press the button with three horizontal lines to open the menu presenting your character and then press the X button.
This will open the map with a topography of the available locations. There you will also find information about the planet you are on, such as its type, gravity or temperature. If you press the ESC key or B button on the controller, you will move to a preview of the planet you are on. Press this key/button again to check that planet's solar system. By pressing the key/button again, you will move to the galaxy map, where the next systems are marked with dots.
When checking the map, you can fast travel to previously discovered locations by hovering over them with the cursor and pressing the left mouse button or the A button on the controller. You can also fast travel back to your ship. To do that, press the R key or Y button on the controller.
Scanning planets for resources
On the map, you can scan planets to check what resources you will find on them. Resources are used for, e.g. research that you conduct on board your ship.
Detailed map in Starfield
Unfortunately, Starfield lacks a detailed map - you also won't find separate city maps in the game. The same applies to maps of planets that are easy to read. Simple topography is all that the game offers. Therefore, you can get lost when using such a map. It is worth noting, however, that the scanner in Starfield marks all the interesting points, locations, and quests. The scanner will also show you the path to your current destination.