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The Starfinder universe is about to get both bigger and smaller, with Paizo recently releasing the new Starfinder: Player Core Pocket Edition. This book is a pint-sized version of the hardcover Player Core that was released in July 2025 for the game’s second edition. It’s a format Paizo has been releasing several years now, offering players a more affordable and easy-to-carry alternative.
So is this new tiny tome worth adding to your inventory? Below, we take a closer look all the details.
How is the Player Core Pocket Edition different from the Hardcover version?
As the name suggests, The Starfinder Player Core Pocket Edition is a smaller version of the standard Player Core version. In terms of dimensions, it’s 6×9 inches (and opposed to the standard versions 8×11 inches), so is about half the size. It’s also a softcover rather than hardcover.
The content inside the Pocket Edition, however is exactly the same, with 464 pages of rules and art in an identical layout. It’s worth noting that this does mean the text is much smaller to read, but still completely useable at the table.
What’s inside the Starfinder 2e Player Core?
The Starfinder Second Edition Player Core is an update to the original rules published in 2017 and includes the basic rules of the game, with most of the content focused on character creation and advancement. It includes:
- Six starting classes: Envoy, Mystic, Operative, Solarian, Soldier and Witchwarper (each rebalanced for Second Edition).
- Ten base ancestries: Android, Barathu, Human, Kasatha, Lashunta, Pahtra, Shirren, Skittermander, Vesk and Ysoki.
- Expanded customization: Options for versatile heritages like the undead Borai and Drift-touched Prismeni, plus hundreds of new feats and spells.
- The Pact Worlds primer: A detailed introduction to the Starfinder setting, outlining the politics, cultures and cosmic phenomena that define the Pact Worlds and the larger galaxy.
- Equipment and gear: New magic items, cybernetic upgrades, weapons and armor.
- Detailed rules: Includes a breakdown of key mechanics when it comes to combat, exploration and downtime.
How much is Starfinder 2e Player Core Pocket Edition?
The Starfinder 2e Player Core Pocket Edition retails for $29.99 USD, which is significantly cheaper than the $69.99 USD that the standard Player Core goes for. Notably, if you want an even cheaper alternative, you can also pick up a PDF version for $19.99 USD from Paizo.
When was the Starfinder Playe Core Pocket Edition released?
The new Player Core Pocket Edition was officially released on October 7th, 2025. The standard hardcover version was released on July 31st, 2025 (it’s common for Paizo to publish pocket editions several months after the primary release).
Why pick up the Starfinder Player Core Pocket Edition?
- Easier to carry: The hardcover is pretty hefty, so if you’re travelling to games and have a lot books and gear, it’s far more compact and easier to jam into your bag.
- Significantly cheaper: For just $30 you get the entire rules for Starfinder 2e (which work out to almost 60% cheaper than the standard hardcover).
- Great for new and veteran players: If you’re new to Starfinder this is a great, low cost way to get the base rules and see if you might enjoy the game. Similarly, if you’re already experienced with Starfinder 1e, the Pocket Edition is a solid way to see what’s changed without having to drop a ton of credits.
Final Thoughts
Paizo’s Starfinder Player Core Pocket Edition is a great option if you’re looking for a smaller and more affordable version of the new edition. It’s also worth noting that the new edition is also completely compatible with Pathfinder 2e, offering even more bang for your buck.
You can order the Starfinder Player Core Pocket Edition now from your local game store or the Paizo website.