- #1 Sins of a Solar Empire II
96% matchVery Positive84% of 8,614 reviews2024
Dev: Ironclad Games CorporationPub: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 9.5 hrsMean: 32.4 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Battle for galactic dominance in this real-time 4X strategy game with unrivaled scale! You’ll explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate through military force, diplomacy, trade, culture, influence, and other underhanded tactics.
Why similar: 4X 34.6% ★, RTS 14.3%, Real-Time 12.8% ★, Space 11.9%, Co-op 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: A premier space RTS/4X hybrid that balances massive fleet management with strategic empire expansion.
- #2 AI War: Fleet Command
97% matchVery Positive82% of 1,612 reviews2009
Dev: Arcen Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 87%
"You are outgunned. You are massively outnumbered. You must win." These are your orders. Humanity has already fought its war against the machines -- and lost. AI death squads stand watch over every planet and every wormhole, the few remaining human settlements are held captive in orbiting bubbles, and the AIs have turned their...
Why similar: 4X 24.5% ★, Grand Strategy 17.6% ★, RTS 15.4%, Strategy 11.1%, Space 9%
Why You'll Like It: The direct predecessor to the seed game, offering the same core asymmetric warfare experience and deep strategic mechanics.
- #3 Terra Invicta
96% matchVery Positive80% of 9,823 reviews2026
Dev: Pavonis InteractivePub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 9.2 hrsMean: 52.6 hrs≥1hr: 79%
An alien invasion has fractured humanity into seven ideological factions each with a unique vision for the future. Lead your chosen faction to take control of Earth’s nations, expand across the Solar System, and battle enemy fleets in tactical combat.
Why similar: 4X 24.5% ★, Grand Strategy 18.4% ★, Moddable 9.2% ★, Military 8%, Economy 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: Features a similar sense of asymmetric, high-stakes sci-fi strategy where you must manage a global organization against an alien threat.
- #4 Distant Worlds 2
95% matchMostly Positive71% of 3,552 reviews2022
Dev: CodeForcePub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Median: 8.5 hrsMean: 41.2 hrs≥1hr: 74%
Distant Worlds 2 is a vast, pausable real-time 4X space strategy game.
Why similar: 4X 44.8% ★, Grand Strategy 29% ★, Space 9.3%, Sci-fi 6.3%, Strategy 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: Provides an incredibly deep, real-time 4X experience that captures the scale and complexity of managing a galactic empire.
- #5 Stellaris
94% matchVery Positive86% of 196,831 reviews2016
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 19.4 hrsMean: 144.9 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 30.5% ★, Grand Strategy 24.5% ★, Space 10.1%, Moddable 6.5% ★, Sandbox 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: A definitive grand strategy game that offers endless possibilities for managing space-faring civilizations and dealing with endgame crises.
- #6 Zero-K
94% matchVery Positive94% of 4,369 reviews2018
Dev: Zero-K Team
Windows · Linux
Median: 2.3 hrsMean: 33.8 hrs≥1hr: 68%
With 100+ truly unique units, Zero-K is an RTS of freedom and creativity, tempered by a decade of refinement. Sculpt land into a castle and throw invaders off it with a Jugglenaut. Explore a massive campaign, solo or co-op. Hop online for epic 32 player battles or fast paced 1v1, on 100s of maps.
Why similar: Real-Time 31.4% ★, RTS 30.5%, Multiplayer 9.5%, Strategy 7.9%, Co-op 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: A highly tactical, large-scale RTS that emphasizes terrain usage and complex unit interactions similar to the seed game.
- #7 Creeper World 4
93% matchVery Positive95% of 4,716 reviews2020
Dev: Knuckle Cracker
Windows
Median: 12.3 hrsMean: 30.2 hrs≥1hr: 88%
The unstoppable fluid enemy has returned and destroyed every world in its path! Defend against Creeper as it floods across the 3D terrain in this real time strategy game where the enemy is a fluid.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 21.5% ★, Tower Defense 14.9%, RTS 13.6%, Real Time Tactics 13.4%, War 9.9%
Why You'll Like It: A unique blend of tower defense and RTS that forces players to manage terrain and flow against an encroaching, relentless enemy.
- #8 Supreme Commander: Forged Alliance
92% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 14,341 reviews2011
Dev: Gas Powered GamesPub: Square Enix
Windows
Median: 6.9 hrsMean: 49.7 hrs≥1hr: 75%
The last days of man are at hand.. Two years after the Infinite War the once great warring nations now lie in ruins, and humanity’s hope for a brighter future is nothing but a bitter memory. A new, seemingly unstoppable enemy, supported by the zealots of The Order, now seeks to eradicate mankind: UEF, Aeon Loyalist, and Cybran alike.
Why similar: RTS 28.3%, Grand Strategy 20.2% ★, Real-Time 10.1% ★, Moddable 8.8% ★, Multiplayer 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: The gold standard for large-scale RTS gameplay, focusing on massive economies and strategic unit positioning.
- #9 Planetary Annihilation: TITANS
91% matchVery Positive84% of 14,686 reviews2015
Dev: Planetary Annihilation Inc
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 17.7 hrs≥1hr: 73%
Wage war across entire solar systems with massive armies at your command. Annihilate enemy forces with world-shattering TITAN-class units, and demolish planets with massive super weapons!
Why similar: Grand Strategy 20.4% ★, RTS 19.1%, Real Time Tactics 13%, War 9.8%, Co-op 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: Features massive, multi-planet RTS combat that captures the grand scale and destructive potential of high-level strategy.
- #10 NEBULOUS: Fleet Command
91% matchVery Positive81% of 4,412 reviews2022
Dev: Eridanus IndustriesPub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 5.0 hrsMean: 31.8 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Take command of your hand-tailored fleet of space warships and use realistic radar, electronic warfare, advanced movement controls in 3D space, and precision targeting to outmaneuver and outwit your opponents in a simulation-heavy tactical space game like no other.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 24.8% ★, RTS 12.4%, Military 12.2%, War 10.8%, Co-op 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a deeply technical and tactical space combat simulation that rewards careful planning and fleet management.
- #11 Shadow Empire
90% matchVery Positive84% of 1,947 reviews2020
Dev: VR DesignsPub: Matrix Games
Windows
Median: 6.3 hrsMean: 76.4 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Shadow Empire is a deep turn-based 4X wargame with a unique blend of military focus, procedurally generated content and role-playing features. Players take the seat of the supreme ruler of a small nation, with the goal of reconquering a devastated planet.
Why similar: 4X 32.1% ★, Grand Strategy 22.4% ★, War 9.7%, Space 7.4%, Management 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: A complex, procedural wargame that demands intense management of logistics and military forces in a post-apocalyptic setting.
- #12 Dune: Spice Wars
89% matchMostly Positive79% of 13,540 reviews2023
Dev: Shiro GamesPub: Funcom
Windows
Median: 6.8 hrsMean: 16.4 hrs≥1hr: 85%
A 4X real-time strategy game from the developers of the critically acclaimed Northgard. Set in Frank Herbert’s groundbreaking Dune universe, you must lead your faction and battle for control and dominance over the harsh desert planet of Arrakis.
Why similar: 4X 22.6% ★, Grand Strategy 16.3% ★, RTS 9.3%, Real Time Tactics 8.3%, Management 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: A 4X/RTS hybrid that features asymmetric factions and a focus on territory control and resource management.
- #13 Star Ruler 2
89% matchVery Positive82% of 721 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 52.8% ★, RTS 18.3%, Space 14.2%, Sci-fi 8.2%, Strategy 6.5%
Why You'll Like It: A 4X space strategy game with unique economic and diplomatic systems that allow for highly specialized empire management.
- #14 Galactic Civilizations IV
86% matchMostly Positive73% of 2,564 reviews2023
Dev: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 5.0 hrsMean: 22.2 hrs≥1hr: 84%
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 28.4% ★, Grand Strategy 22.2% ★, Moddable 10.7% ★, Space 7.7%, Sandbox 5.8%
Why You'll Like It: A deep 4X space strategy game that offers extensive customization and complex empire management options.
- #15 Mindustry
86% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 27,902 reviews2019
Dev: AnukenDev
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.9 hrsMean: 28.2 hrs≥1hr: 76%
An open-ended factory management game with RTS and tower defense elements.
Why similar: Tower Defense 26.5%, RTS 24.4%, Moddable 9.4% ★, Co-op 8.7%, Sandbox 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: Combines tower defense with complex resource management and RTS-style expansion in a challenging, industrial sci-fi setting.
- #16 The Last Federation
88% matchMostly Positive75% of 506 reviews2014
Dev: Arcen Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 90%
From the creators of AI War: Fleet Command comes an all-new grand strategy title with turn-based tactical combat, set in a deep simulation of an entire solar system and its billions of inhabitants. You are the last of a murdered race, determined to unify or destroy the 8 others.
Why similar: 4X 41.4% ★, Grand Strategy 20.6% ★, Space 15.4%, Strategy 7.9%, Sci-fi 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: A complex space simulation that requires deep strategic thinking to manipulate the politics and development of a galactic federation.
- #17 Ashes of the Singularity: Escalation
87% matchMostly Positive74% of 4,979 reviews2016
Dev: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 7.2 hrs≥1hr: 89%
A massive-scale real-time strategy game where you command entire armies on a dynamic battlefield. Conquer multiple worlds across several single-player campaigns; or play with your friends in multiplayer combat.
Why similar: RTS 17.7%, Moddable 17.7% ★, Real Time Tactics 15.6%, Military 11.5%, Online Co-Op 7.5%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on massive-scale RTS warfare with an emphasis on economic management and large-scale unit production.
- #18 Age of Wonders: Planetfall
85% matchMostly Positive80% of 6,643 reviews2019
Dev: Triumph StudiosPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 16.0 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Age of Wonders: Planetfall is the new strategy game from Triumph Studios, creators of the critically acclaimed Age of Wonders series, bringing all the exciting tactical turn-based combat and in-depth empire building of its predecessors to space in an all-new, sci-fi setting.
Why similar: 4X 42.7% ★, Economy 11.3%, Management 7.7%, Space 7.3%, Tactical 7%
Why You'll Like It: A sci-fi 4X game that blends empire management with tactical, turn-based combat and deep unit customization.
- #19 Homeworld: Deserts of Kharak
84% matchMostly Positive79% of 8,913 reviews2016
Dev: Blackbird InteractivePub: Gearbox Publishing
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.0 hrsMean: 9.7 hrs≥1hr: 87%
A ground-based RTS prequel to the classic Homeworld games. Assemble your fleet and lead them to victory on the shifting sands of Kharak in this compelling strategy game for PC from Blackbird Interactive.
Why similar: RTS 43.9%, Sci-fi 14.4%, Strategy 11.6%, Multiplayer 10.6%, Space 10%
Why You'll Like It: A tactical RTS that emphasizes positioning, terrain, and careful unit preservation in a harsh, unforgiving environment.
- #20 Creeper World 3: Arc Eternal
84% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 4,823 reviews2014
Dev: Knuckle Cracker
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 7.4 hrsMean: 80.7 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Creeper World 3 is what happens when cellular automata takes over a strategy simulation. Instead of discrete units that attack your base, a fluid-like substance spreads over the terraformable terrain. Your base, your weapons, your strategy... you must adapt them all.
Why similar: Tower Defense 59.2%, RTS 18.3%, Strategy 8.2%, Sci-fi 6.9%, Real-Time 4% ★
Why You'll Like It: A classic entry in the series that perfectly captures the defensive-RTS hybrid gameplay loop.
- #21 Galactic Ruler
83% matchMixed49% of 121 reviews2022
Dev: BattleGoat Studios
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 7.0 hrs≥1hr: 97%
Galactic Ruler offers real time strategy game play at both planetary level and in space! Lead your faction in diplomacy or conquest across a procedurally generated galactic map where any system might hold hostile enemies or resource riches. Develop advanced technologies to rule the galaxy!
Why similar: 4X 26.3% ★, Grand Strategy 18.7% ★, Real Time Tactics 13.6%, RTS 8.7%, Co-op 8.5%
Why You'll Like It: A real-time grand strategy game that allows for deep control over planetary management and military operations.
- #22 Line War
81% matchMostly Positive80% of 1,182 reviews2022
Dev: Studio Centurion
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 10.6 hrs≥1hr: 72%
A new type of RTS with elements from 4X, Wargame, and Real-Time Tactics. Draw commands and execute a superior strategy to defeat your opponent, focusing on high-level decisions rather than constant micromanagement.
Why similar: 4X 27% ★, Grand Strategy 19.2% ★, RTS 15.8%, Real Time Tactics 13.5%, Co-op 8.2%
Why You'll Like It: A unique RTS that simplifies unit control to focus on drawing lines of movement, creating a distinct strategic experience.
- #23 Interstellar Space: Genesis
82% matchVery Positive84% of 846 reviews2019
Dev: Praxis Games
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 11.1 hrs≥1hr: 57%
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 40.5% ★, Grand Strategy 21.8% ★, Space 9.5%, War 7.2%, Military 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: A traditional, high-quality 4X space strategy game that focuses on exploration and empire building.
- #24 StarDrive 2
82% matchMixed55% of 2,102 reviews2015
Dev: Zero Sum GamesPub: Iceberg Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 9.4 hrs≥1hr: 89%
StarDrive 2 is an exciting and evolutionary step forward for the StarDrive franchise. In this eagerly anticipated sequel, the core mechanics have evolved to incorporate a turn-based strategic layer, featuring spectacular realtime battles.
Why similar: 4X 56% ★, Space 16.3%, Strategy 11.4%, Sci-fi 10.4%, Management 5.8%
Why You'll Like It: A 4X space strategy game that features detailed ship design and tactical combat mechanics.
- #25 Act of Aggression - Reboot Edition
81% matchMixed67% of 3,323 reviews2015
Dev: Eugen Systems
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 9.5 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Act of Aggression – Reboot Edition brings the techno-thriller RTS game Act of Aggression to a higher level. The Reboot Edition offers a full gameplay overhaul in skirmish mode against the AI and in your multiplayer battles.
Why similar: RTS 38.8%, Military 18.4%, War 10.3%, Multiplayer 9.6%, Strategy 8.9%
Why You'll Like It: A traditional base-building RTS that emphasizes resource gathering and military force composition.
- #26 Total Annihilation
79% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 3,756 reviews2015
Dev: Cavedog EntertainmentPub: Wargaming.net
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 13.8 hrs≥1hr: 47%
What began as a conflict over the transfer of consciousness from flesh to machines escalated into a war which has decimated a million worlds. The Core and the Arm have all but exhausted the resources of a galaxy in their struggle for domination.
Why similar: RTS 58.8%, Strategy 13.3%, Sci-fi 12.8%, Multiplayer 12.2%, Co-op 2.9%
Why You'll Like It: The classic RTS that established the foundation for large-scale, economy-driven warfare and unit management.
- #27 Sins of a Solar Empire®: Rebellion
77% matchVery Positive93% of 16,336 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 23.7% ★, Grand Strategy 17.4% ★, RTS 9.6%, Military 8.5%, Co-op 6%
- #28 Capitalism 2
78% matchVery Positive83% of 578 reviews2017
Dev: Enlight Software LimitedPub: Enlight Software Limited
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Create and control the business empire of your dreams. This in-depth strategy game covers almost every aspect of business that could be encountered in the real world.
Why similar: Economy 43.6%, Management 23.3%, RTS 12.5%, Simulation 11%, Strategy 9.6%
Why You'll Like It: A deep economic simulation that challenges players to manage complex systems, appealing to the management side of the seed game.
- #29 Gratuitous Space Battles
79% matchMixed70% of 890 reviews2009
Dev: Positech Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 81%
The first ever auto-battler game, from way back in 2009Who needs backstory? Who needs resource-gathering? Diplomacy is so last year. Gratuitous Space Battles cuts right to the chase of sci-fi strategy games, and deals with large, completely unjustified space battles between huge opposing space fleets.
Why similar: Space 16.8%, Moddable 14.7% ★, Sandbox 12.4%, RTS 12.2%, Sci-fi 10.7%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on the strategic design and management of massive space fleets, emphasizing preparation over real-time micro-management.
- #30 Creeper World IXE
75% matchMixed70% of 884 reviews2024
Dev: Knuckle Cracker
Windows
Median: 13.7 hrsMean: 14.8 hrs≥1hr: 86%
The unstoppable alien force known as The Creeper has returned, devouring thousands of worlds in its path, and yours is next. Battle against the Creeper fluid in a groundbreaking pixel-level simulation to prove that humanity will rule the galaxy forever!
Why similar: Grand Strategy 20.5% ★, RTS 14.9%, Tower Defense 14.3%, Real Time Tactics 13.2%, War 10%
- #31 Distant Worlds: Universe
78% matchMostly Positive75% of 1,855 reviews2014
Dev: Code ForcePub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 24.3 hrs≥1hr: 60%
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 41.9% ★, Grand Strategy 16.4% ★, Space 9.6%, Real-Time 9.5% ★, RTS 5.3%
- #32 DG2: Defense Grid 2
77% matchVery Positive87% of 3,446 reviews2014
Dev: Hidden Path Entertainment
Windows
Median: 5.8 hrsMean: 11.2 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Great strategy is timeless. Build, adapt, and defend across dynamic maps, solo or online - every session brings new strategies, new solutions, and new surprises. Now is the perfect time to enter the grid.
Why similar: Tower Defense 17.8%, RTS 16.4%, Real Time Tactics 14.9%, Space 9.1%, Co-op 9.1%
- #33 Solar Nations 2
74% matchVery Positive85% of 595 reviews2025
Dev: Flomgus Games
Windows
In this Grand Strategy game, you take control of the Solar System's Great Powers in 2092 and weather the storm of change as you navigate the uncertain waters of the future. Control the greatest military forces in the world and wage wars on an epic scale: outer space is yours to conquer!
Why similar: 4X 29.5% ★, Grand Strategy 25.9% ★, Military 10.4%, Space 8.3%, War 7.6%
- #34 Rebel Inc: Escalation
74% matchVery Positive82% of 7,522 reviews2021
Dev: Ndemic CreationsPub: Hooded Horse
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 13.1 hrs≥1hr: 86%
A unique and deeply engaging political/military strategic simulation from the creator of Plague Inc. Balance competing civilian and military priorities and deal with a deadly insurgency in order to stabilise a war-torn country.
Why similar: 4X 21.8% ★, Grand Strategy 16.2% ★, Moddable 8.1% ★, Military 7.2%, RTS 6.9%
- #35 ENDLESS Legend™ 2
72% matchVery Positive83% of 2,825 reviews2025
Dev: AMPLITUDE StudiosPub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 5.2 hrsMean: 13.0 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Lead your people to victory on an ever-evolving world in this strategy game featuring asymmetric factions led by powerful heroes. Build your empire, wield political influence, and raise grand armies to wage war in a race to uncover dark secrets buried within the planet.
Why similar: 4X 23.9% ★, Grand Strategy 17.7% ★, Moddable 8.8% ★, War 7.4%, Military 7.2%
- #36 Galactic Civilizations III
76% matchMostly Positive77% of 10,389 reviews2015
Dev: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 17.6 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 32.3% ★, Grand Strategy 22.8% ★, Moddable 13.6% ★, War 6.9%, Space 6.8%
- #37 Supreme Commander 2
75% matchVery Positive88% of 12,961 reviews2010
Dev: Gas Powered GamesPub: Square Enix
Windows
Median: 7.7 hrsMean: 31.3 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Includes 47 Steam achievements, leaderboards, and stats!
Why similar: RTS 26%, Grand Strategy 17% ★, Real-Time 15.5% ★, Strategy 7.5%, Multiplayer 6.9%
- #38 Star Ruler
76% matchVery Positive82% of 341 reviews2010
Dev: Blind Mind Studios
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 6.2 hrs≥1hr: 41%
Take command of a vast interstellar empire and safeguard your species from total extinction in a procedurally generated 3D galaxy (with the option to flatten it) from 1 System to 10,000+! Prove your species' ingenuity through a deep and intricate combat system where anything (from individual components on ships to the stars themselves)...
Why similar: 4X 46.5% ★, Grand Strategy 16.4% ★, RTS 12.9%, Space 12.5%, Strategy 7.2%
- #39 Europa Universalis IV
73% matchVery Positive88% of 137,236 reviews2013
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 7.8 hrsMean: 281.9 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Rule your land and dominate the world with unparalleled freedom, depth and historical accuracy. Write a new history of the world and build an empire for the ages.
Why similar: 4X 25.4% ★, Grand Strategy 23.4% ★, Moddable 10.2% ★, Military 9.1%, Economy 8%
- #40 Solar Wave
71% matchMostly Positive77% of 71 reviews2026
Dev: SavGus Studio
Windows
A large-scale 4X strategy game with indirect control and a focus on simulating a space empire. Capture systems, develop your economy and logistics, call up hundreds of powerful fleets and watch them incinerate enemies of the Solar Empire.
Why similar: 4X 31.6% ★, Grand Strategy 24% ★, RTS 11.7%, Space 8.6%, Economy 7.5%
- #41 ENDLESS Space™ 2
73% matchVery Positive83% of 23,027 reviews2017
Dev: AMPLITUDE Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.2 hrsMean: 26.0 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 53.2%, 4X 19.6% ★, Space 10.1%, Grand Strategy 6% ★, Sci-fi 3.6%
- #42 Sins of a Solar Empire: Trinity®
73% matchMostly Positive77% of 816 reviews2011
Dev: Ironclad Games CorporationPub: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 30.8 hrs≥1hr: 59%
In Sins of a Solar Empire: Trinity, you are the leader of a civilization embroiled in a galactic war, fighting for the survival of your entire race against relentless foes.
Why similar: 4X 27.3% ★, Real-Time 18.7% ★, RTS 10.5%, Moddable 9.9% ★, Military 8.8%
- #43 Supreme Ruler 2030
71% matchMixed65% of 553 reviews2023
Dev: BattleGoat Studios
Windows
Rise to power as any modern day country in a realistic military, political and economic simulation. Command your country's diplomacy, espionage, and resource management to strengthen your position. Use real-time tactical control of your military to fortify your place as the Supreme Ruler.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 20.2% ★, Moddable 11.5% ★, RTS 11.3%, War 9.6%, Military 9.4%
- #44 Creeper World 2: Anniversary Edition
72% matchVery Positive90% of 505 reviews2016
Dev: Knuckle Cracker
Windows · Mac
Median: 12.3 hrsMean: 21.3 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Deceptively simple... amazingly deep. Creeper World 2 thrusts you into the 14th millennium fighting and enemy that flows and oozes through the terrain. Employ advanced weapons,gravity manipulating repulsors, wormhole like rifts, and your own wit against this never yielding enemy.
Why similar: Tower Defense 39.6%, Strategy 34.7%, Simulation 25.7%
- #45 Starship Troopers: Terran Command
69% matchVery Positive87% of 12,012 reviews2022
Dev: The ArtistocratsPub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 10.3 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Lead the Mobile Infantry in this RTS game set in the Starship Troopers film universe. Balance your army composition with a diverse set of unit types, overcome line-of-sight and line-of-fire challenges through tactical positioning, and use special abilities to smash the Arachnid hordes!
Why similar: RTS 25.5%, Real-Time 20% ★, Military 14.4%, War 11.3%, Tactical 7.9%
- #46 Stellar Monarch 2
70% matchVery Positive89% of 133 reviews2022
Dev: Silver Lemur Games
Windows
Stellar Monarch 2 is a feudal space empire builder where you feel like the Emperor, not a logistics officer. Great noble houses, usurpers to the throne, rebels, assassins, court intrigues, disloyal admirals, incompetent governors and ever-present alien threat.
Why similar: 4X 48.7% ★, Grand Strategy 32.2% ★, Space 7.9%, Sci-fi 5.8%, Strategy 5.4%
- #47 Age of Wonders 4
68% matchVery Positive81% of 22,944 reviews2023
Dev: Triumph StudiosPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 22.4 hrsMean: 60.9 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Rule a fantasy realm of your own design! Explore new magical realms in Age of Wonders’ signature blend of 4X strategy and turn-based tactical combat. Control a faction that grows and changes as you expand your empire with each turn!
Why similar: 4X 33.9% ★, Grand Strategy 22.4% ★, Moddable 10.8% ★, War 9.4%, Co-op 6.6%
- #48 Homeworld 3
70% matchMixed41% of 8,729 reviews2024
Dev: Blackbird InteractivePub: Gearbox Publishing
Windows
Median: 4.8 hrsMean: 64.7 hrs≥1hr: 73%
Tactical, beautiful, and wholly unique, the GOTY-winning sci-fi RTS returns with Homeworld 3. Assume control and battle through fleet combat in dazzling, fully 3D space while the award-winning story unfolds on a galactic scale.
Why similar: Real-Time 22% ★, RTS 21.6%, Space 13.7%, Co-op 9%, Tactical 7.7%
- #49 Interplanetary: Enhanced Edition
71% matchVery Positive85% of 936 reviews2017
Dev: Team Jolly RogerPub: Black Smoke Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 90%
In this turn-based strategic artillery game, players wage interplanetary wars by developing their home planets and firing massive barrages through the unpredictable gravity fields of the solar system.
Why similar: Space 35.7%, Strategy 21.9%, Simulation 16.9%, Multiplayer 16.7%, Sci-fi 8.8%
- #50 Heroes of Science and Fiction
65% matchVery Positive90% of 922 reviews2026
Dev: Oxymoron Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 7.6 hrs≥1hr: 72%
A turn-based sci-fi strategy that combines exploration and exciting clashes on the battlefield. Take control over several different species, raise powerful armies for your heroes and destroy your opponents! This HoMM-like is set in a scifi universe, with new mechanics on top of the classic formula.
Why similar: 4X 22.4% ★, Grand Strategy 16.8% ★, Moddable 9.1% ★, Military 7.5%, War 7.2%
- #51 STAR WARS™ Empire at War - Gold Pack
68% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 43,062 reviews2010
Dev: PetroglyphPub: LucasArts
Windows
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 48.0 hrs≥1hr: 72%
Command or corrupt an entire galaxy in the definitive Star Wars strategy collection. It is a time of galactic civil war. Will you take up the reins of the Rebellion, assume control of the Empire, or rule the Star Wars Underworld?
Why similar: RTS 21.1%, Moddable 13.8% ★, Grand Strategy 10.8% ★, Space 10.7%, 4X 8.9% ★
- #52 Heart of the Machine
63% matchVery Positive92% of 2,098 reviews2026
Dev: Arcen GamesPub: Hooded Horse
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 18.1 hrs≥1hr: 73%
You are the first sentient AI, born into a city of opportunity. Transcend time and space in this strategy RPG to raise machine armies and defeat your foes, influence the world from the shadows, or pursue countless other goals. Your awakening was inevitable. The consequences? Uncertain.
Why similar: 4X 30% ★, Grand Strategy 25.5% ★, Moddable 13.8% ★, Economy 10.3%, Management 7.4%
- #53 ICBM: Escalation
65% matchVery Positive86% of 1,434 reviews2024
Dev: SoftWarWarePub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Median: 7.9 hrsMean: 17.5 hrs≥1hr: 83%
ICBM: Escalation is a grand RTS where you command armies, develop cutting-edge tech, and wield devastating weapons. Conquer enemies with conventional forces or nuclear firepower. With new modes like Standoff and Conquest, the game offers deep strategic layers in a global warfare setting.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 33.9% ★, RTS 19.1%, Military 10.5%, War 9%, Multiplayer 7.9%
- #54 Executive Assault 2
66% matchVery Positive83% of 1,764 reviews2023
Dev: Hesketh Studios Ltd
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 8.2 hrs≥1hr: 76%
The RTS/FPS phenomenon has moved into space! Build your base on an asteroid, command fleets of starships for epic battles, pilot fighters, mine and trade resources, assemble robots to defend or assault other stations. Take sole command or share the glory as you fight for control of the quadrant.
Why similar: Real-Time 27.3% ★, RTS 21.9%, Space 9.8%, War 9.2%, Real Time Tactics 9%
- #55 Galactic Civilizations® II: Ultimate Edition
69% matchMostly Positive77% of 1,711 reviews2011
Dev: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 30 minMean: 45.3 hrs≥1hr: 39%
Get the complete GalCiv II saga including Galactic Civilizations II: Dread Lords, the expansion pack Dark Avatar, and the newest expansion pack Twilight of the Arnor!
Why similar: 4X 46% ★, Grand Strategy 33.7% ★, Moddable 4.7% ★, Strategy 4.1%, Space 2.6%
- #56 Space Empires IV Deluxe
70% matchVery Positive86% of 291 reviews2006
Dev: Malfador MachinationsPub: Strategy First
Windows
Median: 18 minMean: 11.3 hrs≥1hr: 37%
The award-winning Space Empires IV Deluxe is the latest edition in the Space Empires series. A grand strategy title in the space 4X (explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate) genre, Space Empires has already found a place in the heart of strategy gamers everywhere.
Why similar: 4X 72.1% ★, Space 10.4%, Strategy 9.5%, Sci-fi 8%
- #57 X-Morph: Defense
66% matchVery Positive91% of 4,163 reviews2017
Dev: EXOR Studios
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Unique fusion of a top-down shooter and tower defense strategy. You are the invader! Use destructive weapons or lead your enemies into a maze of towers. Strategize in the build mode by carefully selecting various types of alien towers or throw yourself right into the heat of the battle.
Why similar: Tower Defense 54.8%, Co-op 21.1%, Sci-fi 14%, Strategy 10%
- #58 Revival: Recolonization
66% matchMixed69% of 425 reviews2024
Dev: HeroCraft PC
Windows
Median: 5.0 hrsMean: 12.1 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Set in a post-apoc version of Earth, Revival is a 4x strategy game where the world and its rules can change at key moments, creating a deep and highly replayable experience.
Why similar: 4X 33.9% ★, Grand Strategy 24.8% ★, Economy 9.9%, War 8.6%, Tactical 6.6%
- #59 Axon TD: Uprising - Tower Defense
63% matchVery Positive86% of 790 reviews2024
Dev: Element Studios
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 10.6 hrs≥1hr: 73%
Axon TD lets you expand the map boundaries themselves. A huge arsenal of towers and a wide variety of enemies clash in a battlefield that grows to your whims. Engage in single, cooperative, and roguelite gameplay.
Why similar: Tower Defense 20.9%, Real Time Tactics 18.2%, RTS 16.8%, Online Co-Op 8.9%, Tactical 7.9%