- #1 Stellaris
97% matchVery Positive86% of 191,915 reviews2016
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 19.5 hrsMean: 142.4 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Explore a galaxy full of wonders in this sci-fi grand strategy game from Paradox Development Studios. Interact with diverse alien races, discover strange new worlds with unexpected events and expand the reach of your empire. Each new adventure holds almost limitless possibilities.
Why similar: 4X 45.6% ★, Space 26.5%, Strategy 14%, Sandbox 14%
Why You'll Like It: The definitive modern space 4X game that offers unparalleled depth in empire management and galactic exploration.
- #2 EVE Online
96% matchMostly Positive74% of 38,402 reviews2010
Dev: CCP
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 136.7 hrs≥1hr: 73%
Over 20 years of legendary space battles! Explore a massive living universe of danger and opportunity in a challenging and highly rewarding space adventure. Fight, trade, build, and connect with a universe driven and shaped directly by players.
Why similar: Massively Multiplayer 40.9%, Space 20.2%, Sandbox 12.1%, Strategy 10%, Open World 9.9%
Why You'll Like It: The ultimate space sandbox MMO that provides the persistent, player-driven universe experience found in 4X-Galaxy.
- #3 Second Galaxy
96% matchMixed52% of 1,200 reviews2019
Dev: Zilong Game Limited
Windows
Median: 36 minMean: 9.4 hrs≥1hr: 38%
Second Galaxy is an open world sci-fi game that combines RPG and SLG elements. You can navigate hundreds of different space ships, team up with players to form alliances, and engage in intergalactic battles with other players around the world.
Why similar: Massively Multiplayer 53.7%, Space 19.2%, Strategy 11.3%, RPG 9%, Open World 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: A direct competitor in the space MMO genre that emphasizes tactical combat and alliance-based strategy.
- #4 ENDLESS™ Space 2
95% matchVery Positive83% of 22,789 reviews2017
Dev: AMPLITUDE Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.3 hrsMean: 25.9 hrs≥1hr: 87%
ENDLESS™ Space 2 is a Strategic Space Opera, featuring the compelling “just one more turn” gameplay, set in the mysterious ENDLESS™ Universe. As the leader of your civilization, will you impose your vision and build the greatest stellar empire?
Why similar: Strategy 80.1%, 4X 9.7% ★, Space 8.8%, Open World 0.6%, Sandbox 0.5%
Why You'll Like It: A highly polished 4X strategy game featuring distinct factions and deep turn-based tactical combat in space.
- #5 Hades' Star
94% matchMostly Positive73% of 2,643 reviews2019
Dev: Parallel Space Inc
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.6 hrsMean: 55.7 hrs≥1hr: 55%
A unique space strategy game where thousands of players participate in one shared galaxy.
Why similar: Massively Multiplayer 44.3%, Space 26.5%, 4X 14.3% ★, Strategy 13.4%, Indie 1.5%
Why You'll Like It: A persistent, multiplayer space strategy game that focuses on long-term resource management and cooperative play.
- #6 Sins of a Solar Empire®: Rebellion
94% matchVery Positive93% of 16,246 reviews2012
Dev: Ironclad Games CorporationPub: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 4.9 hrsMean: 16.6 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Command a space-faring empire in Sins of a Solar Empire: Rebellion, the new stand-alone expansion that combines 4X depth with real-time strategy gameplay.
Why similar: 4X 49% ★, Space 21.7%, Sandbox 15.7%, Strategy 13.7%
Why You'll Like It: A perfect blend of real-time strategy and 4X mechanics that emphasizes large-scale fleet management.
- #7 Galactic Civilizations III
93% matchMostly Positive77% of 10,370 reviews2015
Dev: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 17.4 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Build a civilization that will stand the test of time in the largest space-based strategy game ever! Choose from dozens of unique races and make a name for yourself across the galaxy through diplomacy, espionage, technological advances, and more.
Why similar: 4X 51.6% ★, Space 19.1%, Sandbox 16%, Strategy 13.4%
Why You'll Like It: A classic 4X title focused on deep research trees, diplomacy, and massive ship customization.
- #8 Starpoint Gemini Warlords
92% matchMostly Positive73% of 3,569 reviews2017
Dev: Little Green Men Games
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 11.0 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Strategy from the front lines! Starpoint Gemini Warlords combines 3rd person capital spaceship combat with 4X strategy and RPG gameplay elements. Build mighty war fleets and send them into battle or lead them into combat yourself. Become the Warlord and conquer the Gemini system!
Why similar: 4X 35.1% ★, Space 21.4%, Strategy 11.6%, Sandbox 10.8%, Open World 9.1%
Why You'll Like It: Combines 4X strategy elements with RPG progression and real-time ship combat in a vast open galaxy.
- #9 Star Hunter - Infinite Lagrange
91% matchMixed57% of 1,011 reviews2021
Dev: NetEase Games
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 92.7 hrs≥1hr: 61%
In a remote corner of the Milky Way, you, a star hunter, will control a fleet, take on a wide variety of bounty contracts and missions, and venture into the vastness of space. You will hunt for mysterious items for your employers and explore specific targets in uncharted territory.
Why similar: Massively Multiplayer 60.7%, Space 20.4%, Strategy 18.9%
Why You'll Like It: A massive space-based strategy game where players build fleets and expand their territory in a persistent galaxy.
- #10 Distant Worlds 2
91% matchMostly Positive71% of 3,478 reviews2022
Dev: CodeForcePub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Median: 9.3 hrsMean: 42.6 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Distant Worlds 2 is a vast, pausable real-time 4X space strategy game.
Why similar: 4X 57% ★, Strategy 22.1%, Space 20.9%
Why You'll Like It: Offers an incredibly detailed and expansive 4X experience with a massive scale that rewards long-term strategic planning.
- #11 Interstellar Space: Genesis
90% matchVery Positive84% of 818 reviews2019
Dev: Praxis Games
Windows
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 11.7 hrs≥1hr: 54%
Interstellar Space: Genesis is a turn-based space 4X strategy game in which you attempt to build a thriving galactic empire. Discover mysteries among the stars, colonize worlds, and engage enemies in tactical turn-based combat on your journey to becoming the ruler of the galaxy!
Why similar: 4X 48.5% ★, Space 20%, Strategy 14.3%, Sandbox 7.6%, Indie 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: A turn-based 4X game that stays true to the classic roots of the genre with intuitive mechanics and deep exploration.
- #12 X4: Foundations
89% matchMostly Positive80% of 27,985 reviews2018
Dev: Egosoft
Windows · Linux
Median: 5.1 hrsMean: 94.2 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Your journey to building a vast space empire begins behind the controls of a single ship. Explore the stars, trade goods, fight battles, build stations, buy and equip ships, and command fleets in a living, fully simulated universe that reacts to your decisions.
Why similar: 4X 36% ★, Space 25%, Sandbox 19.4%, Strategy 10.9%, Open World 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: A deep space simulation that allows players to build an empire from a single ship, capturing the sandbox spirit of 4X-Galaxy.
- #13 Dawn of Andromeda
89% matchMixed44% of 242 reviews2017
Dev: Grey Wolf EntertainmentPub: Iceberg Interactive
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 11.8 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Dawn of Andromeda is a pausable, real-time 4X space strategy game providing an accessible, fun and immersive experience, introducing fresh ideas to the genre. Build your empire, colonize new planets, interact with other factions and characters, research technologies and build great fleets.
Why similar: 4X 51% ★, Strategy 23.1%, Space 19.7%, Indie 6.2%
Why You'll Like It: A real-time 4X space strategy game that simplifies the management side while keeping the focus on galactic expansion.
- #14 Nova: Space Armada
86% matchMixed52% of 221 reviews2024
Dev: STONE3 PTE. LTD.
Windows
An exceptional sci-fi strategy game based on space adventure as its core.
Why similar: Massively Multiplayer 37.8%, 4X 37.2% ★, Strategy 11.1%, Space 10.3%, Open World 3.5%
Why You'll Like It: A mobile-inspired space strategy game that brings 4X elements into a fast-paced, massively multiplayer environment.
- #15 Ascent - The Space Game
88% matchMixed68% of 340 reviews2016
Dev: Fluffy Kitten Studios
Windows
Median: 12 minMean: 18.1 hrs≥1hr: 38%
Ascent is a PVE sandbox space MMO with 270 BILLION star systems and an emphasis on strong Sci Fi. It encourages Exploration, Colonization, Research, Asteroid mining, Farming, Trading, and Combat. Outside the tutorial sector, everything in-game has been built by players.
Why similar: Massively Multiplayer 57.4%, Space 24.6%, Strategy 13.2%, Indie 4.8%
Why You'll Like It: A massive multiplayer space simulation that emphasizes economy, mining, and building in a persistent universe.
- #16 Unending Galaxy
87% matchMixed62% of 124 reviews2016
Dev: Anarkis Gaming
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Unending Galaxy is a unique space-sim in which you can fill any role from pirate or trader to the leader of a large galactic empire.
Why similar: 4X 33% ★, Strategy 23%, Space 19.8%, Sandbox 10.6%, Indie 8.6%
Why You'll Like It: A sandbox space simulation that allows for complex AI interactions and large-scale empire building.
- #17 Horizon
86% matchMixed59% of 477 reviews2014
Dev: L3O Interactive
Windows
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Horizon is a turn-based space strategy game of galactic exploration and conquest in which you are in control of humanity’s destiny. You will explore deep space, find new frontiers and discover alien artifacts hidden on long-abandoned planets.
Why similar: 4X 45.8% ★, Space 20.9%, Strategy 13.9%, Sandbox 13.3%, Adventure 3.3%
Why You'll Like It: A traditional 4X space strategy game that focuses on exploration and technological advancement across a vast star map.
- #18 Rebel Galaxy
83% matchVery Positive85% of 8,230 reviews2015
Dev: Double Damage Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 13.6 hrs≥1hr: 62%
Rebel Galaxy is a swashbuckling space adventure, with action-packed combat, exploration, discovery, trade, and “negotiation” with the outlandish denizens at the edge of the known universe.
Why similar: Space 52.6%, Open World 14.6%, RPG 11%, Sandbox 8.7%, Adventure 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on the open-world space exploration and combat aspects, providing a great sense of scale and adventure.
- #19 The Infinite Black
84% matchMixed66% of 212 reviews2016
Dev: SpellbookPub: www.Spellbook.com
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 83.9 hrs≥1hr: 73%
Fleet up with thousands of players in The Infinite Black -- The wildly popular online space combat and adventure game! Command massive spaceships, form powerful corporations, and battle it out in never-ending intergalactic warfare!
Why similar: Massively Multiplayer 56.1%, Space 14.6%, Strategy 14.3%, RPG 9.8%, Indie 5.2%
Why You'll Like It: A long-running space MMO that focuses on combat, trading, and territory control among player factions.
- #20 Pixel Starships
81% matchMostly Positive73% of 2,914 reviews2023
Dev: SavySoda
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 24.8 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Pixel Starships is an FTL-style online sci-fi strategy builder and management game with a competitive PVP tournament. Set in the retro galaxy, your role is to explore space, meet aliens, and develop your ship, crew and AI. The game contains deep strategic and 4x elements. PSS is community-driven.
Why similar: Massively Multiplayer 37%, 4X 31.3% ★, Space 16.4%, Strategy 10.2%, RPG 5%
Why You'll Like It: A unique 8-bit style space strategy game that focuses on ship management and crew coordination in a multiplayer setting.
- #21 Dominus Galaxia: KS Edition
84% matchVery Positive84% of 242 reviews
Dev: StarChart-Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Dominus Galaxia is a 4X space strategy game with a focus on amplifying strategic decisions and minimising non-strategic busywork.
Why similar: Strategy 73.3%, Indie 26.7%
Why You'll Like It: A retro-inspired 4X game that focuses on fast-paced, strategic decision-making in space.
- #22 Galaxy Control: 3D Strategy
82% matchMixed59% of 530 reviews2016
Dev: FX Games Media
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 25.0 hrs≥1hr: 51%
Build your base and battle with other players to control the galaxy! Galaxy Control is an ultimate space combat strategy game with fast-paced combats! Gather minerals and extract uranium, defend your base with laser towers, missile turrets, cannons, walls and mines.
Why similar: Massively Multiplayer 64.8%, Strategy 19.5%, Space 15.8%
Why You'll Like It: A space-themed strategy game that blends base building with tactical combat in a persistent online world.
- #23 VEGA Conflict
82% matchMixed58% of 4,985 reviews2015
Dev: KIXEYE
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 90.8 hrs≥1hr: 63%
Stake your claim, command your fleets, and wage epic war in space.
Why similar: Massively Multiplayer 48.6%, Space 22.4%, Strategy 12.2%, Sandbox 10%, Open World 6.9%
Why You'll Like It: A real-time strategy MMO that emphasizes fleet customization and tactical positioning in space battles.
- #24 Nova Empire
80% matchMixed53% of 283 reviews2022
Dev: Gamebear Tech
Windows
Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 12.5 hrs≥1hr: 57%
Build up a Space Empire and establish control of the Galaxy and the Universe! Nova Empire is a multiplayer space game in which the aim is to build your empire and conquer the galaxy in epic space battles against your rivals with other allies worldwide!
Why similar: 4X 48.7% ★, Strategy 19.1%, Massively Multiplayer 16%, Space 8.9%, Open World 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: A space strategy game that emphasizes real-time tactics and alliance-based warfare in a persistent galaxy.
- #25 Astroflux
79% matchMostly Positive72% of 343 reviews2016
Dev: Fula Fisken
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 18.1 hrs≥1hr: 69%
Play Astroflux - a retro styled, action packed MMO space shooter.
Why similar: Massively Multiplayer 65%, Space 15.8%, RPG 10.8%, Adventure 8.4%
Why You'll Like It: An action-oriented space MMO that focuses on exploration and combat in a persistent, shared galaxy.
- #26 Andromeda: Rebirth of Humanity
79% matchMixed65% of 116 reviews2021
Dev: Null Reference Games
Windows · Linux
Andromeda is a hybrid between a space 4X and an MMO for Android and PC. Get dropped into an online universe sandbox with 2 galaxies full of planets to colonize. Build structures like Mines to generate resources to build ships and engage in fleet battles with NPCs and other players.
Why similar: Massively Multiplayer 44.3%, Strategy 24.5%, Space 17.4%, Open World 6.1%, RPG 5%
Why You'll Like It: A colony-focused space strategy game that adds unique economic and simulation layers to the 4X formula.
- #27 Starfighter: Infinity
78% matchVery Positive91% of 129 reviews2019
Dev: Ben Olding Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
A space based MMORPG with a focus on ‘dogfighting’ style action and exploration. Features a huge array of ships, imaginative weapons and ship upgrades with more being added all the time. Explore the galaxy, fight other players, form your own organisations, mine asteroids to craft new items, loot rare weapons from alien races, and more...
Why similar: Massively Multiplayer 68.9%, RPG 12.7%, Space 11.6%, Indie 6.8%
Why You'll Like It: A space-based RPG and MMO that allows players to explore and trade in a vast, open universe.
- #28 PlanetX
75% matchMixed66% of 50 reviews2025
Dev: Giedrius Talzunas
Windows · Mac
PlanetX is a real-time strategy MMO set on a spherical planet. Players expand territories, construct buildings, and manage resources to develop their empire. The ultimate goal is to conquer the entire planet by claiming all land plots and outpacing rivals in strategic growth and domination.
Why similar: Strategy 35.5%, Massively Multiplayer 34%, Space 29%, Indie 1.4%
- #29 Into the Void
78% matchMixed63% of 136 reviews2015
Dev: Mozg Labs
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.5 hrsMean: 13.8 hrs≥1hr: 98%
Into the Void is a strategy RPG and exploration sci-fi game with an epic story and intense battles. Travel through space and discover the origin of a cosmic threat which destroyed Earth centuries ago. Fight or cooperate with the different factions; be a leader !
Why similar: 4X 28.5% ★, Space 27.7%, Strategy 20.6%, Adventure 9.8%, RPG 8.8%
Why You'll Like It: A space strategy game that blends 4X elements with a strong narrative and adventure focus.
- #30 Rogalia
76% matchMostly Positive70% of 534 reviews2018
Dev: TatriX
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 21.2 hrs≥1hr: 70%
Rogalia is the sandbox with fantasy open world, meal-based character leveling, nice graphics and cozy atmosphere.
Why similar: Massively Multiplayer 62.5%, Sandbox 12.2%, RPG 8.4%, Open World 8%, Adventure 5%
- #31 Galaxy in Turmoil
77% matchMostly Negative39% of 302 reviews2020
Dev: Frontwire Studios, LLC
Windows
Galaxy in Turmoil's conceptual Early Access game is a FREE multiplayer combined-arms game set in a brand-new universe, created by a team of volunteers. It’s all about endless arms races, corporate espionage, and, most of all, blasting up on the enemy faction and taking their stuff.
Why similar: Strategy 41.5%, Adventure 22.3%, Indie 17.2%, Space 16.2%, Open World 2.8%
- #32 Project Entropy
73% matchMixed52% of 220 reviews2024
Dev: FunPlus International AG
Windows
Welcome, commander, to Project Entropy- an ultimate Sci-Fi and role-playing game with battles in space. In this immersive MMO experience, you will command alien civilizations, conquer uncharted planets, and build Hero fleets.
Why similar: Strategy 100%
- #33 Ways of History
76% matchMixed53% of 257 reviews2017
Dev: Glyph Worlds
Windows
Median: 1.4 hrsMean: 14.2 hrs≥1hr: 56%
Hardcore real-time strategy with a long-term round. Development of your civilization from caves to space. Huge world. Thousands of players. 240+ sciences and technologies. About 100 troops. 4 races. 50+ resource deposits. War, trade, science, construction...
Why similar: Massively Multiplayer 70.9%, Strategy 23.4%, Indie 5.7%
- #34 UFO Online: Invasion
75% matchMixed58% of 618 reviews2016
Dev: Bad Pixel
Windows
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 20.0 hrs≥1hr: 54%
UFO Online: Invasion is a turn-based tactical combat MMORPG set in the post-apocalyptic world
Why similar: Massively Multiplayer 65.8%, Strategy 14.7%, RPG 11.3%, Open World 8.2%
- #35 Star Trek: Infinite
71% matchMixed42% of 3,468 reviews2023
Dev: Nimble Giant EntertainmentPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 19.2 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Star Trek: Infinite is a grand strategy experience that lets you play your own Star Trek story as the leader of one of four major factions in the galaxy. Follow the specially crafted story or blaze your own trail in the first Star Trek grand strategy game.
Why similar: 4X 50% ★, Space 21.4%, Sandbox 14.3%, Strategy 9.1%, Open World 5.3%
- #36 StarMade
73% matchMixed68% of 2,981 reviews2014
Dev: Schine GmbH
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 18.8 hrs≥1hr: 54%
The ultimate space sandbox. Participate in epic fleet battles, form alliances, strive to dominate entire galaxies and harness the universe’s resources for your industrious empire or the destruction of others. Customise your experience, the universe is yours!
Why similar: Space 32.7%, Sandbox 20.7%, Massively Multiplayer 15.9%, Open World 11.2%, Strategy 6.8%
- #37 Codename: Rogue Fleet
74% matchMixed59% of 318 reviews2016
Dev: SionoiS
Windows
Median: 36 minMean: 9.0 hrs≥1hr: 39%
Codename: Rogue Fleet is a multiplayer team-based game about spaceships combat.
Why similar: Space 66.5%, Indie 17.3%, Open World 16.2%
- #38 StarDrive
74% matchMixed45% of 1,482 reviews2013
Dev: Zero Sum Games
Windows
Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 88%
As a space bear, human or any other race, venture forth into the galaxy, create custom ships, conquer new worlds, build new colonies and defend your very existence against those who would take what is yours.
Why similar: 4X 54.1% ★, Space 21.5%, Strategy 19.2%, Indie 5.2%
- #39 Star Ruler 2
72% matchVery Positive82% of 719 reviews2015
Dev: Blind Mind Studios
Windows · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 8.9 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Massive scale 4X-RTS set in space. Control hundreds of planets, manipulate galactic politics, research numerous advanced technologies, and command thousands of units and hundreds of planets in your quest for galactic dominance.
Why similar: 4X 51.7% ★, Space 24.5%, Strategy 19.3%, Indie 4.5%
- #40 Solaris
71% matchVery Positive81% of 86 reviews2021
Dev: SpacialCircumstances
Windows · Mac · Linux
Discover a space strategy game filled with conquest, betrayal and subterfuge. Build alliances, make enemies and fight your way to victory and galactic domination. Will you conquer the galaxy?
Why similar: 4X 68.8% ★, Strategy 31.2%
- #41 Azulgar: Star Commanders
73% matchMixed51% of 108 reviews2017
Dev: SZEINER
Windows
Azulgar: Star Commanders is a Sci-Fi open world sandbox game that puts you in a command of your own custom made space ship. Explore aftermath of the Azulgar event that reshaped the face of the solar system.
Why similar: Space 32.3%, Massively Multiplayer 22.8%, Adventure 16.1%, Indie 11.6%, Sandbox 6.7%
- #42 Galactic Civilizations IV
68% matchMostly Positive73% of 2,388 reviews2023
Dev: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 5.1 hrsMean: 21.9 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Take command of a civilization that has just achieved faster-than-light travel in Galactic Civilizations IV, the newest entry in the award-winning space 4X strategy game series. Explore the galaxy, colonize worlds, shape cultures, make alliances, fight wars and pioneer new technologies.
Why similar: 4X 48.5% ★, Space 23%, Sandbox 15.1%, Strategy 13.5%
- #43 Subspace Discovery
69% matchMostly Positive75% of 131 reviews2023
Dev: FLICK Comp GmbH
Windows
Fly through Subspace, build your own ship, and engage in epic battles. Mine asteroids and research new technologies. Uncover the origins of the alien homeworld by solving weekly events in this Co-op PvE MMO.
Why similar: Massively Multiplayer 56.7%, Space 24.9%, Strategy 10.4%, RPG 8%
- #44 Void Destroyer 2
70% matchVery Positive80% of 664 reviews2020
Dev: Iteration 11
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 14.5 hrs≥1hr: 74%
Start with nothing... End with everything! All you have is a basic ship, barely fit for combat, with it you'll start your journey and empire. A open world space sandbox, inspired by and expanding the classics.
Why similar: 4X 41.2% ★, Space 18.1%, Sandbox 14.5%, Strategy 12.1%, Open World 9.9%
- #45 World Of Conquerors
70% matchMixed61% of 98 reviews2019
Dev: HuntahPub: Darkness Development
Windows
Build your cities, manage resources, train soldiers and fight for supremacy in a vast world with other player controlled empires
Why similar: Massively Multiplayer 74.5%, Strategy 18.2%, Indie 7.3%
- #46 Vanguard Galaxy
64% matchVery Positive90% of 353 reviews2025
Dev: Bat Roost Games
Windows
A relaxing game about space exploration that can be played full screen or at the bottom of your screen. Trade, fight, mine and salvage your way through a procedurally generated galaxy. Let the game idle while your autopilot handles business and builds your fortune.
Why similar: Space 58.4%, Sandbox 41.6%
- #47 Space Pirates and Zombies
69% matchVery Positive91% of 3,143 reviews2011
Dev: MinMax Games Ltd.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.6 hrsMean: 10.4 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Explore a randomly generated Galaxy populated with factions, enemies, missions, and items providing you with a unique experience each time you play.
Why similar: Space 47.8%, Strategy 15.7%, RPG 10.6%, Open World 8.7%, Sandbox 8.5%
- #48 Empyrion - Galactic Survival
66% matchMostly Positive79% of 34,087 reviews2020
Dev: Eleon Game Studios
Windows
Median: 6.3 hrsMean: 76.7 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Build and explore in a true space sandbox survival adventure. Construct mighty capital vessels, sprawling planetary settlements, and vast space stations in your galactic journey to discover the mysteries of Empyrion!
Why similar: Space 38.7%, Sandbox 24%, Strategy 19.3%, Open World 18.1%
- #49 Galaxy Idle Clicker
63% matchMostly Positive75% of 1,122 reviews2025
Dev: SoehnlePub: TimeLost Gaming
Windows
Median: 12.1 hrsMean: 333.3 hrs≥1hr: 71%
Embark on an interstellar journey with Galaxy Idle Clicker! Conquer galaxies, upgrade your spaceship, and face off against a myriad of enemy ships. With engaging minigames, powerful upgrades, GIC delivers an unparalleled idle space adventure. Join the cosmic conquest today and dominate the universe!
Why similar: Space 78.1%, Indie 21.9%
- #50 Distant Worlds: Universe
68% matchMostly Positive75% of 1,845 reviews2014
Dev: Code ForcePub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Median: 2.9 hrsMean: 23.9 hrs≥1hr: 59%
Distant Worlds is a vast, pausable real-time 4X space strategy game. Experience the full depth and detail of turn-based strategy, but with the simplicity and ease of real-time, and on the scale of a massively-multiplayer online game.
Why similar: 4X 55.7% ★, Space 22.7%, Strategy 16.3%, Sandbox 3.1%, Adventure 1.1%
- #51 Stars End
66% matchMixed61% of 1,414 reviews2023
Dev: Reverie World StudiosPub: indie.io
Windows
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 10.3 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Stars End is a sci-fi survival sandbox set on the wild frontier of a distant star system. Play solo or host your own server as you craft, build, and battle to survive in a galaxy shaped by danger, discovery, and your own grit.
Why similar: Massively Multiplayer 55.7%, Space 18.5%, Sandbox 11.2%, Open World 7.9%, Adventure 6.7%
- #52 Star Sonata 2
67% matchMixed68% of 289 reviews2020
Dev: Landauer Games
Windows
Median: 2.1 hrsMean: 59.8 hrs≥1hr: 60%
Star Sonata 2 is a space sandbox MMO that combines elements of action, RPG, and empire creation into a truly unique MMO. Explore the sandbox style universe, build persistent bases, construct trade ships, and even fight your way to the top and claim the Emperor’s Throne!
Why similar: Space 47%, Sandbox 33.2%, RPG 19.8%
- #53 Star Rangers™ XE
69% matchMostly Negative40% of 153 reviews2016
Dev: Project Whitecard Studios Inc.Pub: Awestruck Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Explore space and build on other worlds in Star Rangers! Star Rangers is a space exploration and construction game that allows players to build habitats and spacecraft, acquire gear and explore the solar system.
Why similar: Massively Multiplayer 31.5%, Space 20.8%, Sandbox 16.8%, Adventure 8.7%, Open World 8.5%
- #54 Occupy Mars: The Game
61% matchMostly Positive70% of 3,012 reviews2026
Dev: ▲ Pyramid Games
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 31.4 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Survive and colonize Mars in a highly technical, open-world sandbox game. Build and upgrade your base, discover new regions, conduct mining operations, retrieve water, generate oxygen, grow crops, and fix broken parts.
Why similar: Space 39.3%, Sandbox 30.4%, Open World 21%, Indie 9.4%