- #1 Star Valor
97% matchVery Positive89% of 3,325 reviews2022
Dev: Rafael Burgos
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 28.8 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Choose your own destiny as you explore an open-world procedurally generated galaxy where anything is possible. Become a miner, a trader, a bounty hunter, a pirate, or perhaps a jack of all trades. Start off small and build your way to the top but remember with every action, comes consequences.
Why similar: Space 28.2%, Sandbox 19%, Mining 12.8% ★, Open World 11.1%, Procedural Generation 8%
Why You'll Like It: It offers a deep sandbox experience with a heavy focus on ship customization, trading, and exploration in an open universe.
- #2 Endless Sky
96% matchVery Positive92% of 6,938 reviews2015
Dev: Michael Zahniser
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 13.6 hrs≥1hr: 50%
Endless Sky is a 2D space trading and combat game inspired by the classic Escape Velocity series. Work your way up from a relatively wimpy shuttle, cargo ship, or fighter, to a highly upgraded and customized flagship or to a massive fleet of warships or freighters.
Why similar: Space 38.4%, Trading 13.5% ★, Open World 11.4%, Space Sim 11% ★, Sandbox 6.6%
Why You'll Like It: This game captures the exact spirit of retro-style space trading and exploration with a vast, procedurally generated galaxy.
- #3 Astrox Imperium
96% matchVery Positive85% of 1,210 reviews2019
Dev: Jace Masula
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 16.4 hrs≥1hr: 67%
Astrox Imperium is a relaxing space game where you fly around a generated universe. Mining, Fighting, Building, Exploring, and Surviving. What makes this game unique? You have complete control of how it plays. A robust sandbox and lots of MOD tools. Make it your game, and play it your own way.
Why similar: Space 31.1%, Space Sim 18.3% ★, Sandbox 14.3%, Simulation 9.8%, Open World 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: A robust space simulation that emphasizes mining, trading, and building your own path in a massive open world.
- #4 Rebel Galaxy
95% 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 37.3%, Space Sim 14.2% ★, Open World 11.6%, Sandbox 6.8%, Trading 6.5% ★
Why You'll Like It: It provides a fantastic sense of scale and atmosphere while focusing on the life of a space trader and mercenary.
- #5 Avorion
94% matchVery Positive90% of 14,288 reviews2020
Dev: Boxelware
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 18.6 hrsMean: 98.8 hrs≥1hr: 90%
A procedural co-op space sandbox where players can build their own space ships out of dynamically scalable blocks. Fight epic space battles, explore, mine, trade, wage wars and build your own empire to save your galaxy from being torn apart by an unknown enemy.
Why similar: Space Sim 20.5% ★, Space 19.9%, Sandbox 16.7%, Trading 15.1% ★, Open World 10.6%
Why You'll Like It: This sandbox title allows for incredible ship building and deep economic trading across a procedurally generated galaxy.
- #6 X4: Foundations
93% 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: Trading 20.3% ★, Space Sim 19.4% ★, Space 18.2%, Sandbox 15.6%, Simulation 7.4%
Why You'll Like It: The gold standard for space trading and simulation, offering a living economy and total freedom to explore.
- #7 Galaxy on Fire 2™ Full HD
94% matchMostly Positive77% of 2,219 reviews2012
Dev: Fishlabs Entertainment GmbHPub: bitComposer Games
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 8.9 hrs≥1hr: 46%
A hyperdrive malfunction sends Keith T. Maxwell tumbling through space and time to fight for his life against a mysterious alien armada that is wreaking havoc.
Why similar: Space 36.8%, Space Sim 31.4% ★, Simulation 9.5%, Exploration 7.1%, Sci-fi 7.1%
Why You'll Like It: The gameplay loop of trading, combat, and exploration in a persistent galaxy feels very similar to the core experience of Drifter.
- #8 Evochron Legacy SE
92% matchVery Positive83% of 440 reviews2016
Dev: StarWraith 3D Games LLC
Windows
Median: 1.6 hrsMean: 6.9 hrs≥1hr: 61%
Advanced Space Flight, Combat, Trading, and Exploration Simulation. Set in a vast explorable universe, Evochron Legacy offers freeform gameplay with many diverse objectives and paths to choose from.
Why similar: Space Sim 20.9% ★, Space 19.2%, Trading 17.4% ★, Sandbox 13.6%, Open World 9.2%
Why You'll Like It: A hardcore space flight simulator that prioritizes Newtonian physics and seamless exploration of a vast galaxy.
- #9 Elite Dangerous
91% matchMostly Positive77% of 105,113 reviews2015
Dev: Frontier Developments
Windows
Median: 18.4 hrsMean: 146.5 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Take control of your own starship and blaze your trail in an ever-changing galaxy. Master the arts of combat, mining and trade or venture out into the unknown across a 1:1 scale universe.
Why similar: Space Sim 26.7% ★, Space 25.9%, Open World 12.4%, Trading 8.4% ★, Sandbox 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: The definitive open-world space sim for players who want a realistic scale and a focus on the pilot's journey.
- #10 3030 Deathwar Redux - A Space Odyssey
90% matchVery Positive94% of 1,148 reviews2017
Dev: Bird in SkyPub: Crunchy Leaf Games
Windows
Median: 7.5 hrsMean: 8.2 hrs≥1hr: 91%
3030 Deathwar is a unique mix of Adventure and Space Sim. Explore star systems, mine and hunt pirates in top-down mode. Leave your ship and switch into classic Adventuring mode, where you explore derelicts, talk to shady characters or head over to the space bar for a drink.
Why similar: Space 27.8%, Space Sim 13.8% ★, Sandbox 11.6%, Open World 10.8%, Simulation 10.3%
Why You'll Like It: Combines exploration and trading with a charming retro aesthetic that mirrors the indie feel of Drifter.
- #11 VoidExpanse
91% matchMostly Positive71% of 760 reviews2015
Dev: AtomicTorch Studio
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 6.1 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Explore the vast reaches of VoidExpanse -- mine asteroids, upgrade your ship, trade, complete missions, advance your character and survive fast-paced combat with hostile aliens and mercenaries in the rich and exciting Sci-Fi universe of VoidExpanse!
Why similar: Space 41%, Sandbox 18.2%, Open World 14.9%, Simulation 8%, Sci-fi 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: A top-down space RPG that excels at providing a sense of discovery and progression through trading and combat.
- #12 Hardspace: Shipbreaker
89% matchVery Positive89% of 21,702 reviews2022
Dev: Blackbird Interactive
Windows
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 23.9 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Equipped with cutting-edge salvaging tech, carve & slice spaceships to recover valuable materials. Upgrade your gear to take on more lucrative contracts and pay your billion credits debt to LYNX Corp!
Why similar: Space 32.2%, Sandbox 17.6%, Space Sim 15.9% ★, Simulation 11.9%, Sci-fi 9.1%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on the industrial, blue-collar side of space life, providing a grounded and immersive simulation experience.
- #13 Space Rangers HD: A War Apart
89% matchVery Positive94% of 7,116 reviews2013
Dev: SNK GamesPub: Fulqrum Publishing
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 27.5 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Space adventure, open world RPG, strategy, arcade, quest and more!
Why similar: Space 55%, Open World 11.7%, Sandbox 9.6%, Simulation 9.2%, Sci-fi 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: A classic sandbox experience that blends trading, exploration, and RPG elements in a unique, reactive universe.
- #14 No Man's Sky
86% matchVery Positive85% of 402,164 reviews2016
Dev: Hello Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 20.2 hrsMean: 70.4 hrs≥1hr: 94%
No Man's Sky is a game about exploration and survival in an infinite procedurally generated universe.
Why similar: Space 28.9%, Open World 16.8%, Sandbox 13.3%, Space Sim 11.8% ★, Procedural Generation 8.7%
Why You'll Like It: Offers an unparalleled sense of procedural exploration and sandbox survival in a vibrant, infinite universe.
- #15 Objects in Space
88% matchMixed52% of 612 reviews2019
Dev: Flat Earth GamesPub: 505 Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 71%
Objects in Space is a retro space game centred on 2D point-and-click stealth action in a massive open world. Players have their own customisable ships and can meet people, become a trader, bounty hunter, explorer, scavenger or all of them at once.
Why similar: Space 34.8%, Simulation 21.4%, Space Sim 17.7% ★, Action 8.1%, Indie 7.6%
Why You'll Like It: A unique, technical space sim that focuses on the navigation and trading aspects of space travel.
- #16 Cosmonautica
87% matchMixed48% of 1,184 reviews2015
Dev: Chasing Carrots
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 5.0 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Cosmonautica is a fresh take on space trading in a procedurally generated universe, paired with quirky humor for your intergalactic enjoyment.
Why similar: Trading 21.6% ★, Space 19.2%, Space Sim 16% ★, Sandbox 10.7%, Simulation 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: A quirky and engaging space trading simulation that emphasizes crew management and economic growth.
- #17 Rodina
86% matchVery Positive93% of 1,329 reviews2014
Dev: Elliptic Games
Windows
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 6.4 hrs≥1hr: 71%
A single-developer passion project. A seamless full scale solar system. Thrilling action. Be part of an incredible journey as a Universe is built from the ground up!
Why similar: Space 32.2%, Sandbox 14.7%, Open World 13.5%, Space Sim 11.1% ★, Exploration 5.8%
Why You'll Like It: Features seamless planet-to-space exploration that captures the feeling of being a lone pilot in a vast system.
- #18 Reassembly
85% matchVery Positive94% of 4,066 reviews2015
Dev: Anisoptera GamesPub: Indie Voyage
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.1 hrsMean: 26.1 hrs≥1hr: 84%
A spaceship building and universe-exploration game. Collect resources, expand and grow your fleet, and conquer your personal galaxy. Stellar ambience by Peaks.
Why similar: Space 40.5%, Sandbox 29.3%, Open World 8%, Action 4.7%, Sci-fi 4.1%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a creative sandbox experience where ship building and exploration are the primary drivers of gameplay.
- #19 Transcendence
84% matchVery Positive88% of 221 reviews2015
Dev: Kronosaur Productions
Windows
Explore the farthest reaches of Human Space in this open-world space adventure. Compelled to journey to the Galactic Core by a mysterious hyperintelligence, you must fight your way through dozens of star systems teeming with clashing empires, expansionist AIs, and fearsome xenophobes.
Why similar: Space 26.7%, Space Sim 16.7% ★, Trading 16.1% ★, Open World 12.2%, Procedural Generation 9.6%
Why You'll Like It: A classic action-RPG that features a procedurally generated galaxy and a strong focus on upgrading your ship.
- #20 X Rebirth
84% matchMixed44% of 7,305 reviews2013
Dev: Egosoft
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 19.2 hrs≥1hr: 88%
In the distant future, the X universe faces a period of profound and irrevocable change. While the universe stumbles towards an uncertain future, countless adventures await as new enemies rise in search of power.
Why similar: Space 36.3%, Simulation 15.3%, Space Sim 14.1% ★, Sandbox 10.8%, Sci-fi 7.3%
Why You'll Like It: Features a massive, interconnected universe focused on large-scale trading and exploration within a sci-fi setting.
- #21 Subdivision Infinity DX
83% matchMostly Positive75% of 105 reviews2019
Dev: MistFly GamesPub: Crescent Moon Games
Windows
Subdivision Infinity is an immersive and pulse pounding sci-fi space shooter featuring stunning graphics and tight spaceship game play. Hunt down and destroy enemy spacecraft, crush capital ships, mine asteroids for rare minerals, and find blueprints to craft amazing new vessels!
Why similar: Space 29.8%, Space Sim 25.6% ★, Action 8.3%, Sci-fi 8.2%, Indie 6.8%
Why You'll Like It: An action-oriented space exploration game that keeps the focus on flying and discovering new sectors.
- #22 Starpoint Gemini Warlords
82% 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: Space 28.3%, Space Sim 22% ★, Sandbox 15.8%, Open World 13.5%, Simulation 9.6%
Why You'll Like It: Blends space trading and exploration with fleet management and tactical combat in a large open world.
- #23 Vanguard Galaxy
78% 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 22.5%, Sandbox 17.7%, Space Sim 14.7% ★, Trading 13.1% ★, Simulation 8.9%
Why You'll Like It: A casual sandbox space exploration game that provides a relaxing experience for those who enjoy the open-world aspect of Drifter.
- #24 Void Destroyer 2
81% 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: Space Sim 18.1% ★, Space 15.9%, Trading 15.2% ★, Sandbox 14%, Open World 9.7%
Why You'll Like It: A sandbox space sim that balances action and strategy, allowing players to build an empire from a single ship.
- #25 Interstellar Transport Company
81% matchMixed67% of 408 reviews2019
Dev: MT Worlds
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Build a galactic transportation empire and supply humanity with everything it needs to colonize the stars. In this sci-fi logistics simulator, grow your company from a local transport agency into an interstellar logistics behemoth! Singleplayer, vs AI, and online multiplayer.
Why similar: Space 34.7%, Trading 23.1% ★, Simulation 12.5%, Space Sim 11% ★, Sandbox 8.9%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses heavily on the economic and logistical side of space trading, perfect for those who enjoy the business aspect of Drifter.
- #26 Helium Rain
79% matchMostly Positive79% of 324 reviews2018
Dev: Deimos Games
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 8.7 hrs≥1hr: 74%
Trade your wares and eliminate the competition in a cutthroat world. Buy new ships and stations to mine and haul resources. Explore the vast emptiness of space.
Why similar: Space Sim 31.7% ★, Space 31.2%, Simulation 12.9%, Trading 11.5% ★, Indie 4.5%
Why You'll Like It: A realistic space simulation that emphasizes logistics, trading, and flight mechanics in a detailed environment.
- #27 Kinetic Void
82% matchOverwhelmingly Negative17% of 1,556 reviews2014
Dev: Badland Studio
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Kinetic Void is a 3D space adventure with a focus on customization and enjoyable space simulation. The shipyard allows players to construct their ship piece by piece. Ships can be as simplistic as a cockpit, a hull, a engine and a gun, or as complex as a player wants.
Why similar: Space 41.5%, Sandbox 17.7%, Simulation 13.7%, Space Sim 8.7% ★, Sci-fi 6.3%
Why You'll Like It: A sandbox space sim that provides deep ship customization and a focus on exploration in a dangerous galaxy.
- #28 Starcom: Unknown Space
74% matchVery Positive93% of 4,082 reviews2024
Dev: Wx3 Labs, LLC
Windows
Median: 7.9 hrsMean: 16.2 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Starcom: Unknown Space is an action RPG of space exploration and adventure. Build your own starship while discovering an epic story in a universe of strange mysteries, alien factions and uncharted worlds.
Why similar: Space 37.1%, Space Sim 24.8% ★, Open World 15.5%, Sci-fi 6.8%, Exploration 6.4%
- #29 Jumpdrive
80% matchMostly Negative39% of 164 reviews2018
Dev: Meteoric Games
Windows
Jumpdrive is a sandbox space sim set in an alternative future heavily inspired by classic 80s sci-fi. Fight, trade and explore in a massive procedurally generated galaxy of millions of planets and stars. Amass money and power and upgrade and purchase new ships.
Why similar: Space 45.3%, Simulation 22.4%, Open World 14.9%, Indie 9.1%, Action 8.3%
Why You'll Like It: An indie space adventure that captures the simple joy of flying through space and discovering new locations.
- #30 Gaia Beyond
78% matchMostly Positive76% of 258 reviews2020
Dev: Warp Turtle
Windows
Gaia Beyond is a handcrafted 2D Action-RPG, an exploration mix built around the core features fighting, mining and trading. Your decisions are footprints within a vast non-linear solar system. Forge alliances among numerous factions and develop relations with hundreds of NPCs.
Why similar: Space Sim 20.2% ★, Space 19.9%, Trading 18.8% ★, Mining 12.3% ★, Open World 11%
Why You'll Like It: A top-down space sim that emphasizes exploration and narrative-driven quests in a sprawling open world.
- #31 Interstellar Rift
77% matchMixed68% of 1,655 reviews2020
Dev: Split PolygonPub: Iceberg Interactive
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 33.2 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Interstellar Rift is an open world starship simulator with an emphasis on ship construction and multi-player interaction. Survive in a hostile galaxy with your own custom designed and constructed starship. Invite other players to join your crew or fight them across the galaxy!
Why similar: Space Sim 18.2% ★, Trading 16.1% ★, Space 14.8%, Sandbox 13.3%, Mining 10.2% ★
- #32 Celestial Command
79% matchMixed63% of 687 reviews2014
Dev: Romenics
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.5 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 62%
Mine asteroids, salvage space debris, design your own small or massive spacecraft using individual functional components, complete missions, and engage in battles against enemies in a vast galaxy with realistic physics based on orbital mechanics or in a classic physics mode.
Why similar: Space 35.8%, Sandbox 18.5%, Simulation 14.3%, Space Sim 13.6% ★, Sci-fi 5.4%
Why You'll Like It: A physics-based space simulation that allows for creative construction and exploration of orbital mechanics.
- #33 Starship EVO
76% matchVery Positive84% of 1,210 reviews2020
Dev: Moonfire Entertainment
Windows
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 5.8 hrs≥1hr: 55%
Mine and craft your way to orbit, build your own starship and explore a vast, dangerous galaxy alongside your crew. For players who love a meaningful survival progression, a unique and elegant building system, and epic space-opera scale.
Why similar: Space 28.2%, Sandbox 18.9%, Space Sim 14.2% ★, Simulation 13.3%, Open World 8.1%
- #34 ΔV: Rings of Saturn
73% matchVery Positive93% of 3,305 reviews2023
Dev: Kodera Software
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 8.3 hrsMean: 11.6 hrs≥1hr: 85%
A physics-based mining sim, set in the thickest debris field in Sol. Every action has a reaction, lasers are invisible without a medium, and your thrust is a potent weapon. Find trade, adapt your equipment to your playstyle, hire a crew to help. Unravel the mysteries of the rings, or just get rich.
Why similar: Space 25%, Space Sim 19.3% ★, Sandbox 11.7%, Open World 9.9%, Procedural Generation 8.5%
- #35 Evochron Mercenary
77% matchMostly Positive77% of 434 reviews2012
Dev: StarWraith 3D Games LLC
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 6.8 hrs≥1hr: 73%
The life of an independent mercenary is rarely without excitement. Your spacecraft awaits and your adventure begins in the Sapphire star system.
Why similar: Space 31.5%, Space Sim 16.9% ★, Simulation 12.8%, Sandbox 11.8%, Open World 8.7%
- #36 Universe Sandbox
74% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 30,587 reviews2015
Dev: Giant Army
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 23.5 hrs≥1hr: 71%
Create & destroy on an unimaginable scale with a realistic physics-based space simulator. Explore the beauty of our universe and the fragility of our planet. Use science to bend the laws of gravity, collide planets, boil away oceans, fire epic space lasers, and customize your universe.
Why similar: Space 30.4%, Sandbox 25.9%, Space Sim 12.3% ★, Simulation 11.8%, Open World 6.6%
- #37 EVERSPACE™ 2
72% matchVery Positive86% of 12,587 reviews2023
Dev: ROCKFISH Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 7.7 hrsMean: 29.1 hrs≥1hr: 87%
EVERSPACE 2 is a fast-paced single-player spaceship shooter with exploration in space and on planets, tons of loot, RPG elements, mining, and crafting. Experience an exciting sci-fi story set in a vivid, handcrafted open world full of secrets, puzzles, and perils.
Why similar: Space 41.8%, Open World 20.9%, Simulation 12.5%, Sci-fi 9%, Exploration 8.3%
- #38 StarMade
76% 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 34.7%, Sandbox 24.2%, Open World 13.4%, Space Sim 9.2% ★, Sci-fi 5.6%
- #39 X3: Terran Conflict
75% matchVery Positive85% of 2,841 reviews2008
Dev: Egosoft
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 32.2 hrs≥1hr: 51%
It is the year 2938. The long wished-for encounter of the X Universe and the Earth holds both joy and sorrow for the people. Despite flourishing trade, the clash of the diverse races, cultures and life forms creates new tensions, mistrust and open conflict that need to be overcome!
Why similar: Space 33.2%, Space Sim 14% ★, Sandbox 13.5%, Trading 13.3% ★, Simulation 9.8%
- #40 Space Trash Scavenger
71% matchVery Positive84% of 514 reviews2024
Dev: SquarePlay GamesPub: Paradox Arc
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 9.2 hrs≥1hr: 76%
Grab your jetpack and explore procedural asteroid fields, derelict spaceships and abandoned outposts. Build and automate your Space Rig to process scavenged trash. Craft, trade and fight your way home in this interstellar, open-world survival sandbox.
Why similar: Space 24.6%, Sandbox 17.6%, Space Sim 14.2% ★, Open World 12.4%, Procedural Generation 9.5%
- #41 Ostranauts
73% matchMostly Positive80% of 2,398 reviews2020
Dev: Blue Bottle GamesPub: Kitfox Games
Windows
Median: 5.1 hrsMean: 26.8 hrs≥1hr: 71%
Navigate your scrappy ship through the boneyard in search of valuable parts in abandoned vessels. Use salvage to upgrade your ship, or sell it for cash to pay down your mounting debt, or restock fuel, air, or food. Fly and role-play aboard your dream spaceship in this hardcore noir space-sim.
Why similar: Trading 17.7% ★, Space 17.6%, Space Sim 16.5% ★, Sandbox 13.8%, Open World 8.9%
- #42 Azulgar: Star Commanders
75% 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 33%, Simulation 19.9%, Sci-fi 10.1%, Action 9.3%, Indie 7.9%
- #43 SpaceEngine
71% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 14,936 reviews2019
Dev: Cosmographic Software
Windows
Median: 2.1 hrsMean: 47.7 hrs≥1hr: 66%
The world's first science-based photorealistic interactive 3D planetarium that models the entire Universe, using procedural generation for uncharted areas.
Why similar: Space 21.4%, Sandbox 18%, Space Sim 17.9% ★, Open World 13.7%, Sci-fi 7.2%
- #44 Star Traders: Frontiers
72% matchVery Positive84% of 3,754 reviews2018
Dev: Trese Brothers
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 24.5 hrs≥1hr: 74%
You are the captain of a starship venturing through a massive open universe. Customize your crew and take command at the helm of your very own ship as you explore a galaxy torn apart by internal strife, alien threats, and political intrigue.
Why similar: Trading 20.9% ★, Space Sim 17.6% ★, Sandbox 14.8%, Space 14.4%, Procedural Generation 8.8%
- #45 Drifter Star: Evolution
69% matchMostly Positive73% of 745 reviews2025
Dev: Kayla StudioPub: Happy Kayla
Windows
Median: 1.2 hrsMean: 1.6 hrs≥1hr: 59%
From stardust to cosmic sovereign! In this unique space game, evolve by devouring everything. Grow from a tiny rock into a massive galaxy. Each swallow brings growth, each evolution brings victory. Unlock the universe's ultimate secrets!
Why similar: Space 58.6%, Space Sim 10.3% ★, Indie 8.7%, Open World 8.2%, Relaxing 6.2%
- #46 Between the Stars
70% matchMostly Positive74% of 2,427 reviews2024
Dev: Isolated Games
Windows
Median: 54 minMean: 8.9 hrs≥1hr: 49%
Become the Captain of an interstellar cruiser and journey across the galaxy to save the Republic. During your journey you will have to make important decisions, improve the weaponry of your ship and fight against numerous enemies.
Why similar: Space 32.5%, Space Sim 20.8% ★, Sandbox 12%, Simulation 11.4%, Open World 5.9%
- #47 Astrox: Hostile Space Excavation
73% matchVery Positive84% of 454 reviews2015
Dev: Jace Masula
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 9.2 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Exiled to a deep space mining sector, you are left with a crappy ship, a laser, and a small mining beam. It is up to you to survive by working your way through the galaxy. Mine asteroids, refine and trade the ore, buy upgrades for your ship, hunt pirates... you get it.
Why similar: Space 27.5%, Sandbox 15.1%, Space Sim 14.9% ★, Simulation 11.4%, Mining 10.3% ★
- #48 helionaut
70% matchVery Positive95% of 223 reviews2020
Dev: Sokpop Collective
Windows · Mac
An open-world galaxy adventure game ✨🚀🌠 Explore a procedurally-generated universe filled with diverse micro-planets, asteroid belts and UFOs. 👽
Why similar: Space 28.4%, Simulation 16.3%, Procedural Generation 13.5%, Open World 13.2%, Indie 11.4%
- #49 Solar 2
71% matchVery Positive91% of 2,205 reviews2011
Dev: Murudai
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.0 hrsMean: 4.3 hrs≥1hr: 71%
Dynamic abstract sandbox universe. Changes and evolves as you do.
Why similar: Space 34%, Sandbox 20.1%, Space Sim 11.2% ★, Open World 7.8%, Simulation 7.3%
- #50 Star Trucker
66% matchMostly Positive79% of 4,997 reviews2024
Dev: Monster and MonsterPub: Raw Fury
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 10.4 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Haul cargo, trade salvage and keep your space suit close as you search for fame and fortune among the stars in a game that puts an interstellar twist on the truck sim genre.
Why similar: Space 23.3%, Space Sim 23.1% ★, Sandbox 14.1%, Open World 12.4%, Simulation 9.6%
- #51 Jitter
66% matchVery Positive86% of 153 reviews2025
Dev: Berko Games
Windows
A sci-fi exploration & survival game where you take on the role of a spaceship’s AI. Explore, fight, and survive across a mining colony in the Main Asteroid Belt. Rebuild your ship. Rescue your crew. Reveal the truth behind your mission.
Why similar: Space 24.9%, Space Sim 23.4% ★, Sandbox 18.3%, Open World 13.3%, Sci-fi 7.1%
- #52 EVERSPACE™
69% matchMostly Positive78% of 11,373 reviews2017
Dev: ROCKFISH Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 10.0 hrs≥1hr: 75%
EVERSPACE™ combines fast-paced combat with roguelike elements, great visuals and a captivating story. It takes you on a challenging journey through an ever-changing, beautifully crafted universe full of surprises. Shoot, craft and loot your way to victory while the odds are stacked against you.
Why similar: Space 49.6%, Space Sim 22.4% ★, Sci-fi 8.1%, Action 7.8%, Indie 5.3%
- #53 Space Pirates and Zombies
70% 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 48%, Open World 9.8%, Sandbox 9.4%, Procedural Generation 9.3%, Sci-fi 8.4%
- #54 Cosmic Miners
67% matchMixed58% of 60 reviews2025
Dev: bitByte Games
Windows
Explore asteroid fields, trade rare resources, and upgrade your ship in Cosmic Miners. Navigate faction alliances, complete missions, and rise through the ranks in a dynamic space adventure where your choices shape your path to cosmic power.
Why similar: Space Sim 29% ★, Space 25.8%, Open World 11.7%, Simulation 9.6%, Sci-fi 8.3%
- #55 SpaceBourne
68% matchMostly Positive77% of 805 reviews2020
Dev: Burak Dabak
Windows
Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 9.7 hrs≥1hr: 58%
Spacebourne is an open space exploration game with Rpg elements. Its world consists of different factions at war. You as an expert pilot need to choose your side or be on no one's side and create a force of your own. Load up your weapons, Ready your ship and warp to adventure.
Why similar: Space 43.6%, Space Sim 25.4% ★, Simulation 19.6%, Indie 7.1%, Exploration 4.4%
- #56 The Long Journey Home
69% matchMixed59% of 1,915 reviews2017
Dev: Daedalic Studio WestPub: Daedalic Entertainment
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 89%
The Long Journey Home combines an open world full of galaxies, planets and anomalies with quests and mechanics of a rogue-like RPG. One destination. Endless adventures. Where will this journey take you?
Why similar: Space 45.3%, Simulation 22.8%, Procedural Generation 9%, Indie 8.4%, Sci-fi 7.3%
- #57 Sector Space
63% matchVery Positive96% of 53 reviews2025
Dev: Robin M. FarrellPub: Outer Vision Games
Windows · Linux
Explore a procedurally generated galaxy, mine asteroids, refine minerals, colonize planets, build stations, deploy drones, salvage rare items, construct gear, level up, improve your ship, assemble a fleet, engage in combat, and take on the void.
Why similar: Space Sim 42.1% ★, Simulation 25.7%, Space 13.2%, Exploration 7.9%, Sci-fi 4.1%
- #58 Nova Drift
61% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 14,407 reviews2024
Dev: ChimericPub: Pixeljam
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 19.6 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Nova Drift distills the mechanical depth and strategy of an ARPG into classic arcade space combat. Control an endlessly evolving bio-mechanical ship, face legions of strange and deadly foes, and ride the wake of a dying star across the void.
Why similar: Space 62%, Action 11.7%, Great Soundtrack 11.1%, Indie 9.3%, Casual 3.4%
- #59 Last Horizon
68% matchVery Positive81% of 260 reviews2015
Dev: Pixeljam
Windows · Mac
Median: 18 minMean: 104.8 hrs≥1hr: 32%
A minimal space exploration and survival game. Pilot the last vessel of a fallen civilization into the vast unknown, in search of a new world to call home.
Why similar: Space 50.4%, Great Soundtrack 12%, Action 11.9%, Indie 10.9%, Exploration 9.2%
- #60 Starlight Drifter
68% matchMixed68% of 50 reviews2018
Dev: Dharker Studios
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 96%
Create your own character and explore the universe in this sci-fi space game allowing you to choose where to explore and what to do, where your decisions will affect the universe and the ending you experience.
Why similar: Space 28.3%, Space Sim 26.6% ★, Sandbox 22.5%, Open World 13%, Exploration 6.3%
