To board enemy ships in Starfield, follow these key steps:
- Unlock the Targeting Control Systems skill (at least rank 1) from the Tech skill tree. This skill lets you lock onto enemy ships and target specific systems like shields and engines
- Engage in combat and target the enemy ship's shields first to bring them down completely. Use lasers and missiles to deplete the shields
- Switch targeting to the ship's engines using the D-pad or corresponding controls. Fire on the engines until they are disabled but avoid destroying the hull to keep the ship intact
- Once the engines are disabled, the ship becomes immobile but can still fire. You must be the last hostile ship in the area to board, so eliminate other enemy ships first
- Approach within 500 meters and follow the dock prompt (e.g., press X on Xbox controller) to dock with the disabled ship
- Board the ship and clear out all hostile crew members , including the captain. This grants you loot, XP, and control of the ship
- If your Piloting skill meets the requirement for the ship's class , you can take control of the ship and fly it yourself or sell it after paying a registration fee
Having a companion join you during boarding can make clearing enemies easier
. In summary, disable the engines of the last remaining enemy ship by targeting shields then engines, dock with it, eliminate the crew, and claim the ship for yourself
