Starfield Desperation Unique Rifle
Screenshot by Prima Games

How to Get Desperation in Starfield

Don't get too desperate for this unique rifle!

I really enjoy using the AA-99 in Starfield. It’s one of the most satisfying and potent weapons in the game, and the fact that there are numerous unique variants makes it all the better. One such variant is Desperation, and unfortunately, it’s also one of the most challenging uniques to acquire in the game. Here is how to get Desperation in Starfield.

Recommended Videos

Where to Get Desperation in Starfield

To acquire Desperation in Starfield, you must visit Red Mile and complete the “Run the Red Mile” side quest. It’s a long and arduous quest on its own, but to get your hands on Desperation as a reward, you have to run the Red Mile 29 times total. Yeah, that’s right.

By running it 29 times, you will earn the top score. For that, Mei will provide you with the Desperation AA-99 unique rifle. Thankfully, alongside Desperation, you will earn rewards each time you complete the Red Mile, so it’s a worthy endeavor.

Desperation Stats and Details

Starfield Desperation Stats
Screenshot by Prima Games

If you can run the Red Mile the required number of times, you’ll receive Desperation. The pre-installed mods are relatively basic, nothing too special, but it’s an accurate and powerful rifle all the same.

  • Weapon Type: Rifle
  • Damage Type: Physical
  • Damage: 17
  • Ammunition Type: 11MM Caseless
  • Magazine Size: 15
  • Fire Rate: 134
  • Range: 19
  • Accuracy: 71.9%
  • Mass: 3.20
  • Value: 23594
  • Mod Slot 1: Laser Sight
  • Mod Slot 2: Reflex Sight
  • Mod Slot 3: Suppressor
  • Mod Slot 4: Ergonomic Stock
  • Mod Slot 5: Small Magazine
  • Mod Slot 6: Hair Trigger
  • Rare Effect: Cornered – Damage increases the lower your health goes.
  • Item ID: 000EC2F1

Can you spot the most significant downside to Desperation? That’s right; the small magazine size means you’ll run low on ammunition frequently and have to reload mid-fight. It’s a pain but not enough to dilute the experience of taking down an entire mob of Spacers.

Are you on the hunt for every unique weapon in Starfield? Me too! Keep an eye on Prima Games as we cover each of the many uniques in the game, as well as how to acquire every one of them.


Prima Games is supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Learn more about our Affiliate Policy

About the Author

Brandon Morgan

Brandon began writing in 2012, for websites such as OnlySP, before transitioning to digital marketing in 2016 to learn the ins and outs of SEO. In mid-2023, Brandon returned to write strategy guides for Prima Games, IGN, DualShockers, and more, with a focus on ARPGs, RPGs, and Survival games. His past coverage includes Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty, Starfield, Skull and Bones, and many more!