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Starfield: How to Persuade NPCs

Convince NPCs to heed your suggestions in Starfield.

There are a lot of instances when a diplomatic approach can help alleviate hostilities and tensions when dealing with NPCs across the galaxy Starfield. In some cases, you might even gain new ways to complete objectives. Our guide discusses how to persuade NPCs in Starfield and the Persuasion skill’s amazing uses throughout the campaign.

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How to Use the Persuasion Skill in Starfield

As mentioned earlier, the Starfield Persuasion skill is what we’ll be using to convince NPCs. Here’s a quick summary:

  • Description: In the Settled Systems, the nuanced ability to listen and discuss can often accomplish far more than shooting first and asking questions later.
  • Effects per rank: Increase your chance of success when persuading someone by 10/20/30/50%.
  • Leveling tally/method: Use persuasion during dialogue.
Screenshot by GameSkinny

Persuasion Minigame Mechanics

If a particular conversation allows you to use the Persuasion skill in Starfield, you’ll see the [Persuade] tag among the dialogue choices. Select this to begin the Persuasion minigame. It has the following mechanics:

  • Responses have point values; higher values mean tougher skill checks.
  • The bottom-left of the interface shows how many points you need to earn to successfully convince someone.
  • There’s a limit to how many failed responses you can provide, though this won’t count if you’re able to pass the check with a reply.

Examples of Persuasion in the Campaign

I’ve included a few examples of when I was able to successfully use the Starfield Persuasion skill:

  • Upon reaching Akila City, you can force the Galbank robbers to stand down and let go of the hostages.
  • While joining Ryujin Industries, you can calm down a disgruntled former employee named Tomo.
  • Whenever you encounter a Star Parcel Freighter, you can volunteer to deliver their goods, and then ask for more cash.
  • When attempting to recruit crew members, they’ll usually mention their fee. However, completing the Persuasion check causes them to halve the payment.
  • If you commit crimes, such as killing innocent people, a companion will leave you. However, if you talk to them, you can convince them that it was just a mistake.

I suggest selecting this option whenever possible so you can get out of a bind. Moreover, I also advise you to bring Sarah along. She might approve of your actions due to her behavior: she dislikes gung-ho attitudes and prefers that matters are resolved diplomatically.

That’s everything you need to know about how to use the Persuasion skill in Starfield. Don’t forget that you can also try the Negotiation/Bribery skill. For more tips and strategies, you can visit our guides hub.


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Author
Image of Jason Rodriguez
Jason Rodriguez
Jason Rodriguez is a game reviewer and guides writer from the Philippines. With around 5,000 published articles, he's freelanced for numerous outlets, including GameSkinny, GameSpot, Polygon, IGN, PCGamesN, PC Invasion, and more.