- What to know
- How to unlock the Mantis quest and reach the lair
- Where the puzzle appears and what makes it deadly
- How the clue is revealed through exploration
- How to solve Mantis puzzle in Starfield
- Alternative ways to bypass the puzzle
- Rewards you get after completing the quest
- Why this quest is worth doing early
What to know
- The Mantis quest starts from a random note called “Secret Outpost!” found on Spacer enemies
- Puzzle solution is the word “TYRANNIS,” revealed through audio logs
- Wrong steps trigger lethal turrets instantly
- Rewards include the Razorleaf ship and full Mantis armor set
The Mantis quest in Starfield is one of the most rewarding early-game side missions, offering powerful gear and a unique ship. However, its puzzle—hidden deep inside the lair—can instantly kill you if solved incorrectly. Understanding how to get the clue and safely cross the trap-filled room is essential if you want to complete this quest efficiently.
Here is a quick overview of the Mantis quest and puzzle:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Quest Name | Mantis (Secret Outpost) |
| Starting Item | Secret Outpost! note |
| Location | Denebola I-B (Denebola system) |
| Puzzle Type | Letter floor trap with turrets |
| Correct Answer | TYRANNIS |
| Alternate Solution | Hack terminal (Security Rank 3) |
| Key Rewards | Razorleaf ship, Mantis armor set |
How to unlock the Mantis quest and reach the lair
You begin the Mantis quest by looting a datapad titled “Secret Outpost!” from dead Spacer enemies. This item appears randomly during early missions or exploration, making it easy to miss if you don’t check bodies carefully. Once you read it, the mission will automatically direct you to the Denebola system, specifically Denebola I-B, where the hidden outpost is located.
As you enter the facility, you will encounter multiple groups of Spacers and robots, along with environmental storytelling through audio logs. These logs are crucial, as they contain the clue needed to solve the puzzle later.
Where the puzzle appears and what makes it deadly
The puzzle is located deep inside the Lair of the Mantis, after several combat encounters. When you reach it, you’ll notice a corridor filled with lettered floor tiles and automated turrets at the far end.
Stepping on the wrong tile instantly activates the turrets, which can kill you within seconds. This makes trial-and-error almost impossible unless you are heavily armored or extremely fast.
How the clue is revealed through exploration
The key to solving the puzzle lies in an audio log titled “Leon Voclain – Sic Semper Tyrannis.” This recording reveals that the phrase was repeatedly used by the Mantis, hinting strongly at the solution.
The important takeaway is the word “Tyrannis”, which translates roughly to “tyrants” and serves as the password to bypass the trap.
How to solve Mantis puzzle in Starfield
Enter the puzzle room and stop before stepping on any tiles. Observe the layout carefully—each row contains multiple letters.
Step 1
Start by stepping on the tile marked “T.” This is the first letter of the correct sequence.
Step 2
Continue walking across the tiles spelling “TYRANNIS” in order:
T → Y → R → A → N → N → I → S
Step 3
Move slowly and precisely between tiles. Even slight missteps can trigger the turrets due to sensitive hit detection.
Step 4
Reach the other side and activate the control button to disable the trap. Once done, the path becomes safe for companions as well.
Alternative ways to bypass the puzzle
If you prefer not to risk the trap, there are other methods available. You can hack a nearby terminal with Security Rank 3, which disables the turrets entirely.
Some players also attempt to boost jump across the tiles or rush through the damage, but these methods are unreliable and can cost valuable resources.
Rewards you get after completing the quest
| Reward | Description |
|---|---|
| Mantis Spacesuit | High-level armor with strong perks |
| Mantis Helmet | Completes the armor set |
| Mantis Pack | Boost pack with bonuses |
| Razorleaf Ship | Unique ship with shielded cargo |
| Credits & XP | Scales with level |
The Razorleaf is especially valuable because it includes a shielded cargo hold, allowing you to smuggle contraband more easily.
Why this quest is worth doing early
The Mantis quest stands out because it provides endgame-quality gear very early in your playthrough. Even though enemies in the lair can be around level 30, careful play allows you to complete it sooner and gain a massive advantage.
If you focus on exploring thoroughly and paying attention to clues, the puzzle becomes straightforward rather than frustrating.
