Try before buying

How Star Citizen Free Fly events work

Status checked September 6, 2026. This page does not claim an event is active unless RSI currently announces one.

A Free Fly is a limited period when RSI lets people try Star Citizen without first buying a game package. Event dates, loaner ships, access codes, and referral incentives vary.

Before an event

  1. Create an RSI account and add a referral code during signup.
  2. Confirm the event dates and instructions on the official RSI website.
  3. Check system requirements and reserve enough SSD space.
  4. Download the launcher before peak play time if access is already open.

What to test

Computer performance

Test a busy city, a space station, and open space. Performance varies sharply by location and server conditions.

Core controls

Try walking, inventory, ship startup, takeoff, quantum travel, landing, and interaction mode.

Several ship roles

Compare a nimble starter, a cargo-capable ship, and a combat-oriented ship instead of judging the game from one cockpit.

Server tolerance

Free Fly events can be busy. Decide whether the current alpha's bugs and interruptions suit you before spending.

Free Fly versus referral incentive

These are related but not identical. A Free Fly provides temporary game access. A special referral incentive may offer an additional item when a new recruit meets a spending threshold during a defined event window. The standard referral award is currently 50,000 UEC; extra event rewards are not permanent standing offers.

Do not buy based on an old banner. Verify the event end time, minimum qualifying spend, eligible account timing, and which participant receives each reward on RSI.

Where to verify an active event