For new players in EVE Online, diving into the universe’s vast array of activities can be overwhelming. Starter missions, designed by CCP to guide newcomers, offer a structured introduction to the game’s mechanics, lore, and opportunities for making ISK. Here’s a guide to some of the best starter missions and mission chains that can help you get your bearings in New Eden:

1. The Career Agents

Career Agents are your first step after the initial tutorial, providing a deeper dive into EVE’s core gameplay aspects. There are five Career Agents, each focusing on a different aspect of the game:

• Industry: Teaches basics of mining, refining, and manufacturing.
• Business: Focuses on trading, market operations, and making ISK through commerce.
• Exploration: Introduces scanning, hacking, and navigating wormholes.
• Military: Covers combat mechanics, ship fitting, and survival skills.
• Advanced Military: Advances combat skills, including the use of tackle modules and fighting higher-level NPCs.

Completing these missions gives you a better understanding of what EVE Online has to offer and helps you decide which path to pursue.

2. Sisters of EVE Epic Arc — The Blood-Stained Stars

Once you’ve completed the Career Agent missions, the Sisters of EVE (SoE) Epic Arc is an excellent next step. This mission chain is a narrative-driven adventure that:

• Introduces Storyline Missions: Offers a coherent storyline that takes you across various regions, introducing the concept of faction standings and the impact of your actions.
• Rewards: Provides substantial rewards in ISK, items, and a significant standings boost with the faction of your choice upon completion.
• Requirements: Suitable for players with basic combat skills and a frigate or destroyer. It’s accessible after completing the tutorial missions.

3. Level 1 Security Missions

If you’re interested in combat and want to start building your capabilities and understanding of EVE’s PvE combat:

• Mission Running: Regular security missions from agents offer a good balance of challenge and reward for new players, teaching you about ship fitting, combat strategies, and the importance of standings.
• Progression: Successfully completing these missions will prepare you for higher-level missions, including Level 2 and beyond, which offer better rewards and more challenging scenarios.

Tips for Starting Missions

• Ship Fitting: Make sure your ship is appropriately fitted for the task at hand. Don’t hesitate to ask for advice in the rookie chat or look for recommended fittings online.
• ISK Management: Use your earnings to gradually upgrade your ships and equipment. Saving for a bigger, better ship can make missions easier and more profitable.
• Learn from Losses: EVE Online has a steep learning curve, and losses are part of the game. Each loss is an opportunity to learn and improve.
• Join a Corporation: Joining a player corporation can provide you with valuable advice, support, and additional opportunities beyond what NPC missions offer.

Starting with these missions will help you gain a solid foundation in EVE Online, earning you ISK, improving your skills, and potentially guiding you toward your preferred playstyle in New Eden’s vast universe.