Starfield – Should You Side With The Hunter Or Emissary

Starfield’s pivotal faction decision emerges during the concluding phase of the Unearthed mission, presenting players with a transformative choice that shapes their endgame narrative. This critical juncture occurs after extensive campaign progression, where you’ve encountered both enigmatic Starborn entities multiple times.

Throughout your Starfield adventure, numerous decisions carry varying consequences, but few match the magnitude of selecting between the Hunter and Emissary. This choice determines not only immediate alliances but also fundamentally alters your approach to the Unity and the nature of Starborn existence.

Choose your friend… wisely.

The philosophical conflict between these Starborn factions represents one of Starfield’s deepest narrative dilemmas. The Emissary advocates for controlled, merit-based access to cosmic power, while the Hunter champions survival-of-the-fittest dominance. Your alignment reflects core gameplay values and determines which companions will support your ultimate objectives.

Aligning with the Emissary means embracing a structured approach to cosmic power distribution. This Starborn, revealed as an alternate universe version of your deceased companion, seeks to regulate access to the Unity through rigorous qualification standards.

To formally commit to the Emissary’s cause, select these dialogue options during the confrontation:

• The Emissary is right. The Artifacts need to be in the right hands.
• I’m siding with the Emissary.

The strategic advantage becomes apparent during Revelation’s climactic battles, where the Emissary deploys substantial military support. Their forces engage hostile Starborn vessels in space combat and provide ground assistance against Ecliptic mercenary squads.

Pro Tip: The Emissary’s assistance proves particularly valuable for players focusing on diplomatic or scientific character builds who may lack combat specialization.

Choosing the Hunter aligns you with raw power and Darwinian cosmic philosophy. This entity, representing an alternate Keeper Aquilus, believes strength alone should determine Starborn ascension, rejecting artificial limitations on cosmic ambition.

To pledge allegiance to the Hunter’s destructive ideology, utilize these conversation responses:

• The Hunter is right. The only real rule is who gets the Artifacts first.
• I’m siding with the Hunter.

The Hunter’s support materializes during the final mission, but first presents a morally challenging side objective: assassinate the original Keeper Aquilus. Players can complete this violently or attempt persuasion to make Aquilus disappear.

Companion reactions create fascinating moral complexities, particularly with Andreja. During testing, expressing hesitation about murdering Aquilus triggered disapproval, while enthusiastic agreement also generated negative reactions, creating a no-win social scenario.

We decided based on the number of likes we’ll get from Andreja.

Common Mistake: Many players underestimate the companion reputation damage from the Aquilus assassination quest, potentially locking them out of valuable relationship perks.

The independent path represents the most challenging but morally consistent option for players rejecting both extreme ideologies. This route maintains narrative purity by refusing to endorse either faction’s flawed cosmic vision.

To declare independence from both Starborn factions, select these dialogue options:

• You’re both wrong. It’s time someone other than a Starborn made a decision.
• I’m tired of both of you. I’ll get to the Unity on my own.

Companions with independent streaks, particularly Andreja, respond positively to this assertive declaration. They appreciate the rejection of cosmic superiority and embrace human autonomy.

The gameplay consequence manifests dramatically during Revelation’s final confrontation. Both Starborn factions become hostile, attacking simultaneously when you reach the critical planet location. This creates significantly increased combat difficulty without allied Starborn reinforcement.

Advanced Strategy: Prepare extensively before this mission by stockpiling advanced weapons, combat aids, and ensuring your character build can handle multiple high-level enemies concurrently.

Your faction choice should align with both roleplaying preferences and practical gameplay considerations. The Emissary suits diplomatic characters, the Hunter benefits power-focused builds, while independence works for self-sufficient specialists.

Consider your current companion relationships carefully, as alignment shifts can permanently alter available dialogue options and quest outcomes. For comprehensive character development guidance, consult our Class Guide to optimize your build for the chosen path.

Time investment varies significantly between paths. The Hunter route typically adds 45-60 minutes for additional quests, while the Emissary and independent paths maintain the standard mission timeline.

This monumental decision connects to other critical Starfield choices, particularly the Entangled mission conclusion. For broader strategic context, explore our Complete Guide covering interconnected narrative branches.

Starfield’s cosmic scale offers endless exploration opportunities across countless planetary systems. For additional combat tactics and mission strategies, visit our comprehensive Weapons Unlock resource hub for advanced gameplay optimization.

No reproduction without permission：SeeYouSoon Game Club » Starfield – Should You Side With The Hunter Or Emissary Strategic guide to choosing between the Hunter and Emissary in Starfield's critical endgame decision