Starfield: How to Find and Use Grenades

Some say that Starfield is simply "Fallout in space." We find this simplification, to put it mildly, but we must admit that it can occasionally appear that way when looking at a significant portion of the game's weapons arsenal. After all, we are in space, centuries later, so it is logical that we would see more firearms and grenades than hammers and axes. (Although those can still be found.)

The handling of weapons is a breeze. Pull, aim, shoot. Grenades and mines are not necessarily more difficult to understand but are explained less within the tutorials of Starfield. So, let's talk about the best ways to use them and where to find them.

Grenades, Mines, And You

While exploring the many worlds of Starfield, you will occasionally come across grenades and mines. Both types of weapons are assigned to the "Right Bumper" on the Xbox controller and the corresponding key on the keyboard. This sets them apart from all the shooting/melee-related inputs assigned to the other shoulder buttons.

You won't have them from the beginning, but pickpocketing is a good way to get some, and looting enemies and enemy strongholds will quickly provide you with several. They can also be purchased at weapon shops, although in our experience, mines are rarely found there.

It can be tempting to stick with what you know and sell them. However, after experiencing a handful of grenades hitting you in the face from the opposing side, you'll likely want to share the kindness. The type of grenade or mine you have will determine the strategy you should employ. For example, cryo grenades can freeze multiple enemies at once. Like with all grenades, it's a good idea to throw them towards the largest gathering of enemies possible.

Tactical Incendiary Action

Do not see the overwhelming number of pirates and spacemen as a disadvantage. See it as a great opportunity to level the playing field by taking out multiple villains simultaneously. Fragmentation grenades and regular mines cause conventional damage. Incendiary variants cause fire damage.

That may all sound excessive, but consider that your own defense against various types of damage varies depending on your spacesuit and other equipment - the same goes for enemies. A good rule of thumb is to assume that the enemy has less inherent resistance to the more exotic types of damage, including extreme heat (ignition) and extreme cold (cryo). That's what makes these weapons more expensive.

We don't necessarily recommend buying these weapons in bulk from the stores unless you have an enormous amount of credits. To be honest, they should be saved for moments when you're overwhelmed or, in the case of mines, when you desire a more discreet approach. However, you'll find enough of them as you explore the areas of Starfield to use them when it truly matters.