Starfield has multiple areas where the player will need a flashlight. There is no way for players to explore the numerous ruins and caves in Starfield without one, but the game makes no effort to explain how players can get their hands on one.
While Starfield does not explain where players can get a flashlight, what's worse is that players might already have one on hand but will not know how to use it. Fortunately, this guide will explain how players can find and use flashlights in Starfield while providing some other helpful tips.
How to Find a Flashlight in Starfield
It is worth noting that players do not have to go out of their way to find a flashlight, as it is already a part of their space helmets. Unlike other items, the flashlight is not an item to be found or equipped but instead functions as a mod for helmets. For this reason, there is a lot of confusion regarding finding and using a flashlight in Starfield.
How to Use a Flashlight in Starfield
After equipping a helmet with a flashlight, players must press and hold the hand scanner button to project light (Left Bumper on Xbox Series X/S controllers and F on PC).
Players can switch off the flashlight by pressing and holding the hand scanner button.
Players who are unhappy with the default flashlight button can change it by following these steps:
- Access the menu.
- Select Settings.
- Select Binding.
- Locate and select Hand Scanning/Flashlight.
- Select another button or key for the action.
How to Fix the Flashlight Bug in Starfield
Numerous players cannot use the flashlight due to a bug, and there are reports that suggest the issue can be traced back to the controller. Many players have reported that they were able to fix the flashlight bug in Starfield by switching to another controller, but other workarounds to resolve the issue are as follows:
- Equip another helmet.
- Update drivers.
- Clear shader cache.
It goes without saying Bethesda will fix this bug in due time. And for those who find the flashlight to be too bright, they can change the intensity by installing third-party mods, although they should do so at their own risk.
When to Use the Flashlight in Starfield
Players can use the flashlight in their space helmet to explore dark ruins and caves, but they must be careful as it could give away their position to enemies. Using a flashlight during stealth missions is not recommended, as it could cause the enemies to attack.
Starfield is available for PC and Xbox Series X/S.