As players traverse the skies in Bethesda’s release, Starfield, they often encounter many opportunities and challenges. One of these activities involves smuggling contraband. While the thrill of outlaw activity draws many to try their hand at smuggling, it’s crucial to remember that the galaxy’s authorities are well-equipped to detect illegal goods.
For the daring, technology quickly becomes an ally. Specifically, Bethesda created a Shielded Cargo Hold that serves as the pivotal factor between freedom and jail. As a result, this upgrade masks illicit cargo from authorities, allowing you, consequently, to move freely across the Settled Systems.
The Payloads skill will make guard ships less likely to detect your contraband. The closer your contraband weight is to your ship’s Shielded Cargo capacity, the more likely it is to be detected by a contraband scan. #Starfield
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— Starfield (@StarfieldGame) September 22, 2023
However, obtaining and properly using a Shielded Cargo Hold isn’t straightforward. The process involves various steps and can lead you to far-off systems and remote planets, adding to the complexity and excitement. It needs the right mix of precise navigation and attention to detail
Over here, we break into the ins and outs of the shielded cargo. From reaching the Porrima star system to interacting with key contacts, you’ll find everything you need to know to engage in less-than-legal activities with confidence in Starfield.
How do you get Shielded Cargo and how to use it in Starfield?
To initiate the journey, set your spaceship’s coordinates for the star system of Porrima. It’s conveniently situated to the east of Alpha Centauri and offers the resources you need for your smuggling career. For those with an advanced grav drive, jumping directly to Porrima is simple. If you’re less equipped, stopovers at star systems like Volii will be necessary.
Arriving in Porrima requires focus. The system has multiple planets named Porrima, each with a distinct numeral. Your target is Porrima III. On the star map, look for it stationed just above the system’s sun.
Your next goal is landing at the Red Mile on Porrima III. After touching down, make a beeline for Ship Services, where Lon Anderssen is your main contact. Engage with him, and you’ll be taken to the ship customization screen.
There, look for the “Add” button. Clicking on it reveals an array of ship parts. Under the Cargo tab, you’ll see various options for Shielded Cargo Holds. Pick one, and your ship becomes a reliable vessel for smuggling. The operation of the Shielded Cargo Hold is automatic. Any contraband you have slotted into this compartment without notification. Be cautious about its capacity, though. If your contraband exceeds the shielded limit, it moves to regular storage, putting it at risk.
For example, if your shielded capacity is 50 out of 800 total, any contraband weighing up to 50 mass will be safe. Exceed this, and you expose your cargo to detection. To optimize your chance of evading the authorities, aim to use less than half of your Shielded Cargo capacity. The less you fill it, the more likely you’ll go undetected. It’s about finding the right balance between cargo and shielded space.
Maneuvering through Starfield’s expansive universe requires both wit and tech-savviness. The Shielded Cargo Hold is an essential asset for anyone aspiring to make a fortune from smuggling. Acquire it wisely and use it strategically to stay one step ahead of the law.