This guide provides an overview of upgrading and engineering suits and weapons in Elite Dangerous Odyssey, emphasizing that while the process may seem daunting, it is quite achievable, especially with recent reductions in material requirements. Upgraded gear is crucial for tackling high-level on-foot activities like conflict zones and Operations. The first step is acquiring equipment from Pioneer Supplies, available at major surface and orbital starports. Not all items are stocked everywhere, and some pre-upgraded gear can occasionally be found, which is highly recommended to save effort. These pre-upgraded items are limited in quantity and respawn weekly.
Upgrades and engineering modifications are performed at Pioneer Supplies branches, but engineering requires visiting specific engineers on foot at their starports. Each suit and weapon can be upgraded through five levels, unlocking slots for up to four engineering modifications. Importantly, once an engineering mod is applied, it cannot be removed or replaced, so careful planning is essential. The ship’s internal engineering menu does not support on-foot gear, so players must physically exit their ships to interact with engineers.
Material gathering is one of the most challenging parts of the process. Although raiding settlements can yield materials, the most efficient method is completing missions at on-foot mission terminals inside starports. These mission boards refresh regularly and differ across stations within the same system, so checking multiple boards is beneficial. Sorting missions by material rewards and improving faction reputation through repeated missions enhances the quality and quantity of materials received.
Materials fall into four categories: Chemicals, Circuits, Technology, and Data. While Chemicals, Circuits, and Technology can be traded among themselves via starport bartenders, Data cannot be traded and must be collected from mission rewards or data outlets found during missions. Players can trade unwanted materials for those they need at bartenders, and can also buy materials from player-owned fleet carriers, though availability and location can vary. Additionally, materials can be shared among players in Squadrons, and Powerplay participation grants materials through care packages.
Overall, the guide encourages players to set manageable goals and gradually build up their engineering progress rather than being overwhelmed by the complexity. Utilizing tools like the Elite Dangerous Odyssey Material Helper (EDOMH) is strongly recommended to track materials and plan upgrades effectively. With patience and strategic mission running, players will accumulate the necessary materials and experience the significant benefits that fully engineered on-foot gear provides. The video concludes by inviting viewers to share their own tips and experiences, subscribe for more content, and support the creators via Patreon.
