Good job!

I use the exit save and just continue almost every single time. Pretty much the only time I use load is if I want to undo a mistake or switch to another character. What I am curious about from your game is if you lose engine sound if you travel within a system while in the exterior ship view. 90% of the time that will make my engine sounds go out, but traveling from the cockpit seems fine. I don't know if that's just my system though. (I've tried shutting off all mods and even loading saves that predate the existence of mods) Tech skills that will help a lot in the early to mid game: Targeting control systems: Level 1 will let you target engine subsystems to board enemy ships in space. It has to be the LAST hostile ship since you can't dock while being shot at. No real help for higher than level 1. Even if you don't want to add the ship to your fleet, you can make A LOT of money by boarding and looting bodies, the captains locker, and the cargo hold. 5 to 8k for a ship's not unusual. (there's a video on my channel about how to board and capture ships) Piloting: Unlocks thruster mode to strafe as well as turn your ship while drifting on your original course. Higher levels will let you fly B or C class ships. Shield systems: Level 1 to 3 each get you 20% more shield hitpoints. Security: pick harder locks. There's a LOT of loot you're missing out without it. L4 not really worth while. Boost Pack Training: Use less fuel, boost more often. Payload: Level 1 to 3 each get you 10% more cargo space. L4 gets you 50% more than base capacity. Starship Design: Unlocks better parts for shipbuilding and upgrading. Engine systems: Higher top speeds. I've listed these in what I consider order of importance. I'll usually get the first 4 to Level 1 then consider which of them need boosting from there with security one of the higher priorities.

How do you know how many ship parts you've got? When the button doesn't repair your ship any more, you're out. lol. Ship parts are fairly heavy at 10kg each so you'll never be able to carry that many. (luckily many ships drop them as loot) In combat, you'll have an easier time if you use thruster mode and I find combat WAY easier with a controller. Stuff like targeting mode and thruster mode are much easier to get in and out of.