- #1 Stars in Shadow
97% matchMostly Positive79% of 830 reviews2017
Dev: Ashdar GamesPub: Iceberg Interactive
Windows
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 14.5 hrs≥1hr: 66%
Stars in Shadow is a turn-based 4X strategy game and a vivid tribute to the genre classics. Compete with alien factions to explore and colonize nearby starsystems, build fleets to defend against rivals, negotiate or conquer them. Win by unifying the galaxy, through diplomacy or force.
Why similar: 4X 45.7% ★, Strategy 14.5%, Space 11.9%, Turn-Based 10.5%, Turn-Based Strategy 8.5%
- #2 Interstellar Space: Genesis
96% matchVery Positive84% of 833 reviews2019
Dev: Praxis Games
Windows
Median: 1.6 hrsMean: 11.1 hrs≥1hr: 56%
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 37.7% ★, Turn-Based 19%, Space 14%, Strategy 11.4%, Turn-Based Strategy 7.7%
- #3 Pax Nova
96% matchMixed56% of 449 reviews2020
Dev: Grey Wolf EntertainmentPub: Iceberg Interactive
Windows
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 6.5 hrs≥1hr: 88%
A sci-fi turn-based 4X strategy game where you lead the fate of one of several factions divided between three races. Explore new worlds and new star systems filled with exciting secrets as well as dangers. Build cities, expand your influence and fight great battles on land and in space.
Why similar: 4X 38.3% ★, Turn-Based 18.2%, Space 13.2%, Strategy 12.4%, Turn-Based Strategy 8.9%
- #4 Dawn of Andromeda
95% matchMixed43% of 243 reviews2017
Dev: Grey Wolf EntertainmentPub: Iceberg Interactive
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 11.7 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 48.8% ★, Strategy 22.6%, Space 17%, Sci-fi 5.9%, Indie 5.7%
- #5 Star Ruler
94% matchVery Positive83% of 340 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 46.9% ★, Strategy 22.5%, Space 19.9%, Indie 5.8%, Sci-fi 4.8%
- #6 Pandora: First Contact
94% matchMixed63% of 643 reviews2014
Dev: Proxy StudiosPub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 41.1 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Pandora: First Contact is a science fiction 4X turn-based strategy game on a planetary scale. Our Earth has been exhausted and colonial attempts on other planetary bodies have been in vain. Finally, after decades of exploration, an interstellar probe has brought promise of a new world.
Why similar: 4X 49.4% ★, Strategy 18.6%, Turn-Based 10.4%, Turn-Based Strategy 9.6%, Sci-fi 6.4%
- #7 Armada 2526 Gold Edition
93% matchMixed68% of 108 reviews2013
Dev: Ntronium GamesPub: Iceberg Interactive
Windows
Median: 24 minMean: 13.1 hrs≥1hr: 36%
Conquer the Galaxy In This ‘4x’ Strategy Game. Lead one of 18 different alien races to become a mighty pan-galactic empire. Manage your colonies, deploy your fleets and conduct research. Plot your strategy and turn your planets into mighty bastions.
Why similar: 4X 39.8% ★, Strategy 29%, Space 14.1%, Indie 8.7%, Turn-Based Strategy 8.4%
- #8 StarDrive
92% matchMixed45% of 1,486 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 52% ★, Strategy 18.9%, Space 18.6%, Sci-fi 5.7%, Indie 4.8%
- #9 Horizon
91% 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 38.4% ★, Turn-Based 18%, Space 15.8%, Strategy 12%, Turn-Based Strategy 7.1%
- #10 Distant Worlds 2
89% matchMostly Positive71% of 3,520 reviews2022
Dev: CodeForcePub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Median: 8.5 hrsMean: 41.5 hrs≥1hr: 74%
Distant Worlds 2 is a vast, pausable real-time 4X space strategy game.
Why similar: 4X 53.4% ★, Strategy 21.2%, Space 17.6%, Sci-fi 7.9%
- #11 Terra Invicta
86% matchVery Positive81% of 9,341 reviews2026
Dev: Pavonis InteractivePub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 9.6 hrsMean: 52.0 hrs≥1hr: 80%
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 43.7% ★, Turn-Based 19.4%, Space 13.9%, Strategy 13%, Turn-Based Strategy 10%
- #12 ENDLESS Space™ - Definitive Edition
88% matchVery Positive81% of 9,584 reviews2012
Dev: AMPLITUDE Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 13.4 hrs≥1hr: 87%
ENDLESS Space™ is a turn-based 4X strategy game, covering the space colonization age in the ENDLESS Universe™, where you can control every aspect of your civilization as you strive for galactic domination.
Why similar: 4X 38.3% ★, Strategy 19.9%, Space 15.1%, Turn-Based 14.1%, Turn-Based Strategy 6.4%
- #13 The Last Federation
89% matchMostly Positive75% of 503 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 31.9% ★, Space 18.8%, Turn-Based 18.8%, Strategy 18.7%, Sci-fi 4.6%
- #14 Lords of the Black Sun
90% matchVery Negative20% of 396 reviews2014
Dev: Arkavi StudiosPub: Iceberg Interactive
Windows
Median: 3.6 hrsMean: 4.6 hrs≥1hr: 90%
Take command of one race to join the struggle for supremacy in the galaxy. As the leader of your empire you are tasked with exploring the stars, colonizing new worlds, managing your empire and conquering whoever dares to oppose you.
Why similar: 4X 41.7% ★, Strategy 18.6%, Space 16.3%, Turn-Based 11.4%, Indie 4.4%
- #15 Master of Orion
87% matchMostly Positive77% of 8,144 reviews2016
Dev: NGD StudiosPub: Wargaming Labs
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 9.2 hrsMean: 101.7 hrs≥1hr: 92%
The ascendant spacefaring 4X strategy game returns! A new chapter in the epic Master of Orion saga is poised to once again capture the imaginations of millions of gamers.
Why similar: 4X 47.5% ★, Strategy 19.4%, Turn-Based 15.2%, Space 13.1%, Sci-fi 3.9%
- #16 Star Ruler 2
86% 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 48.6% ★, Space 20.8%, Strategy 18.6%, Sci-fi 7.9%, Indie 4%
- #17 Galactic Civilizations III
84% matchMostly Positive77% of 10,380 reviews2015
Dev: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 17.5 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 40.2% ★, Turn-Based 19.2%, Space 13.4%, Strategy 10.7%, Turn-Based Strategy 9.4%
- #18 Sid Meier's Starships
85% matchMixed50% of 2,464 reviews2015
Dev: Firaxis GamesPub: 2K
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 7.5 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Build and command a fleet of starships and travel between planets as you explore, build, negotiate, and fight to preserve your vision for humanity.
Why similar: Space 29.6%, Strategy 24%, 4X 18.1% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 13.5%, Sci-fi 9.3%
- #19 Master of Orion 2
82% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 1,719 reviews2016
Dev: SimTexPub: Wargaming Labs
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 24 minMean: 11.3 hrs≥1hr: 44%
Forge an empire in a universe where population growth is stripping away planetary resources. Colonize unknown planets and trade with other races for their knowledge.
Why similar: 4X 43.3% ★, Turn-Based 20.2%, Strategy 16.6%, Space 12%, Sci-fi 4.1%
- #20 Galactic Inheritors
84% matchMixed43% of 88 reviews2015
Dev: Crispon GamesPub: Plug In Digital
Windows
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 97%
Colonise solar systems and watch them grow. Explore the galaxy to find its strategic choke points. Build up your empire and your fleet and then use the power of the media to prepare your people for the inevitable war. At the same time watch your opponents, keep on an eye on their own media and watch for threats and opportunities.
Why similar: 4X 47.6% ★, Space 24.1%, Strategy 17.3%, Sci-fi 6.1%, Indie 4.8%
- #21 Shadow Empire
81% matchVery Positive84% of 1,906 reviews2020
Dev: VR DesignsPub: Matrix Games
Windows
Median: 5.9 hrsMean: 72.5 hrs≥1hr: 77%
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 38.4% ★, Turn-Based 20.8%, Space 14%, Strategy 11.4%, Turn-Based Strategy 8.9%
- #22 Master of Orion 3
83% matchMixed54% of 186 reviews2016
Dev: Quicksilver SoftwarePub: Wargaming Labs
Windows
Median: 12 minMean: 6.5 hrs≥1hr: 38%
Experience first-hand the challenges of leading one of 16 different races into unequalled galactic supremacy and face a universe of decisions. Set policies, explore, build, declare war, negotiate - put all these elements into motion to guarantee your place in the annals of space and time.
Why similar: 4X 54% ★, Strategy 22.1%, Turn-Based 11.6%, Space 9.3%, Sci-fi 3.1%
- #23 Interplanetary: Enhanced Edition
81% matchVery Positive85% of 929 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: Strategy 28%, Turn-Based 26%, Space 23.4%, Turn-Based Strategy 11.3%, Indie 7.4%
- #24 Star Traders: 4X Empires
82% matchMixed63% of 82 reviews2014
Dev: Trese Brothers
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.6 hrsMean: 2.8 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Take command of humanity’s last survivors and rebuild an empire in the stars. In this immersive turn-based strategy game, you will have to fight to protect your people, control rival factions, and unlock lost technology.
Why similar: 4X 52.9% ★, Space 16.1%, Turn-Based Strategy 11.9%, Strategy 10.1%, Sci-fi 9%
- #25 The Fermi Paradox
79% matchMostly Positive77% of 994 reviews2021
Dev: Anomaly Games
Windows
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 5.5 hrs≥1hr: 75%
The Fermi Paradox is a choice-driven sci-fi narrative strategy game in which your decisions in one corner of the galaxy can upend entire civilizations in another. Guide species through millennia and help them explore the vastness of space, make contact and, perhaps, create harmony.
Why similar: Space 37.6%, Strategy 29.5%, Sci-fi 20.7%, Indie 12.2%
- #26 Galactic Civilizations IV
78% matchMostly Positive73% of 2,465 reviews2023
Dev: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 22.1 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 47.6% ★, Space 20.4%, Strategy 13.6%, Turn-Based Strategy 10.2%, Sci-fi 8.2%
- #27 Final Theory
79% matchMostly Positive80% of 393 reviews2018
Dev: Monticube
Windows
Final Theory is a 4X-lite turn-based strategy game where you command fleets of battleships engaged in a galactic civil war. It presents an exciting experience for both veteran players and those new to the genre. It features innovative combat mechanics but also hearkens back to some of the classics.
Why similar: 4X 37.3% ★, Turn-Based 23.6%, Strategy 12.4%, Space 11.5%, Turn-Based Strategy 7.7%
- #28 Into the Void
80% 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 28.6% ★, Space 25.1%, Strategy 21.2%, Turn-Based 20.6%, Indie 4.5%
- #29 Age of Wonders: Planetfall
77% matchMostly Positive80% of 6,620 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 37.5% ★, Turn-Based 17.7%, Strategy 15.7%, Turn-Based Strategy 12.7%, Space 10.2%
- #30 Starless Abyss
74% matchVery Positive86% of 330 reviews2025
Dev: Konafa GamesPub: No More Robots
Windows
Earth has fallen. Science and the Occult have united forces to brace for the arrival of the Eldritch. But will the efforts against this strange, alien race be enough? Play as one of many Proximae used to help defend humanity in this turn-based, roguelike, intergalactic deck builder.
Why similar: Strategy 36%, Turn-Based 24.5%, Space 20.1%, Turn-Based Strategy 11%, Indie 8.4%
- #31 Sword of the Stars: Complete Collection
77% matchVery Positive88% of 710 reviews2010
Dev: Kerberos Productions Inc.Pub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 48 minMean: 28.4 hrs≥1hr: 48%
Sword of the Stars: Complete Collection is the original Sword of the Stars games and the three expansions Born of Blood, A Murder of Crows and Argos Naval Yard. It is the year 2405, and human scientists have discovered a new technology that allows travel from star to star at speeds faster than light.
Why similar: 4X 44.4% ★, Strategy 17.4%, Turn-Based 16.7%, Space 13.1%, Sci-fi 5.3%
- #32 Revival: Recolonization
75% matchMixed69% of 424 reviews2024
Dev: HeroCraft PC
Windows
Median: 5.0 hrsMean: 12.3 hrs≥1hr: 86%
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 44.2% ★, Turn-Based 22.9%, Strategy 12.1%, Turn-Based Strategy 10.3%, Sci-fi 6.9%
- #33 Galactic Civilizations® I: Ultimate Edition
78% matchMixed50% of 306 reviews2012
Dev: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 6 minMean: 8.3 hrs≥1hr: 24%
Galactic Civilizations is a space based strategy game in which you are in control of humanity's destiny.
Why similar: 4X 41.4% ★, Turn-Based 22.2%, Space 11.9%, Strategy 10.9%, Turn-Based Strategy 8.4%
- #34 Master of Orion 1
76% matchVery Positive90% of 445 reviews2016
Dev: SimTexPub: Wargaming Labs
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 6 minMean: 5.9 hrs≥1hr: 31%
Forge an empire in a universe where population growth is stripping away planetary resources. Colonize unknown planets and trade with other races for their knowledge.
Why similar: 4X 52.3% ★, Strategy 17%, Turn-Based 16%, Space 8.3%, Turn-Based Strategy 3.5%
- #35 Distant Worlds: Universe
75% matchMostly Positive75% of 1,848 reviews2014
Dev: Code ForcePub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 24.4 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 55.8% ★, Space 20.3%, Strategy 16.6%, Sci-fi 6.3%, Indie 1%
- #36 Solar Settlers
74% matchVery Positive95% of 312 reviews2017
Dev: BrainGoodGames
Windows · Mac · Linux
Solar Settlers is a card-driven space exploration strategy game set in the far future. Our sun is on the verge of collapse and so mankind has taken to the stars aboard colony ships to seek out a new home.
Why similar: Strategy 34.5%, Turn-Based 28.3%, Space 17%, Turn-Based Strategy 9.2%, Sci-fi 6.8%
- #37 Nexus Legacy
71% matchMostly Positive76% of 160 reviews2026
Dev: Nexus Legacy Team
Windows
Rebuild civilization from a single planet in Nexus Legacy, a persistent sci-fi 4X MMO. Colonize worlds, manage resources, research technologies, command fleets, forge alliances, and fight for control of a living galaxy.
Why similar: 4X 54% ★, Space 21.3%, Strategy 16.4%, Sci-fi 8.3%
- #38 Dust Fleet
73% matchMostly Positive76% of 221 reviews2023
Dev: Orbiting DiscoPub: indie.io
Windows
Assume command of a battle fleet and deploy immediately to the Dust Zone, commander. Our main food supply station has gone dark and the United Earth Nations (UEN) needs to know why in this 4X RTS space sim. Manage your ships, control space stations, and watch your back.
Why similar: 4X 49.4% ★, Space 20.7%, Strategy 16.4%, Sci-fi 9.2%, Indie 4.4%
- #39 Achron
76% matchMixed65% of 113 reviews2011
Dev: Hazardous Software Inc.
Windows
As one of the survivors and humankind's first “Achronal” being, you must piece together what happened and unravel the mysteries surrounding the alien invasion.
Why similar: Strategy 66.8%, Indie 18.5%, Sci-fi 14.7%
- #40 Millennia
72% matchMixed67% of 3,766 reviews2024
Dev: C Prompt GamesPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 14.3 hrsMean: 35.3 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Create your own nation in Millennia, a historical turn-based 4X game that challenges your strategic prowess across 10,000 years of history, from the dawn of humanity to our possible futures.
Why similar: 4X 49.4% ★, Turn-Based 24.1%, Strategy 14.7%, Turn-Based Strategy 11.8%
- #41 Lord of Rigel
72% matchMixed69% of 108 reviews2024
Dev: Rhombus Studios
Windows
Lord of Rigel is a turn-based 4X space strategy game inspired by the classics. In a galaxy divided by two elder races, will you unite with other species or forge your own path? Navigate galactic politics and defeat threats using espionage, research, and military force. How will you shape the galaxy?
Why similar: 4X 47.9% ★, Space 19.7%, Strategy 13.7%, Turn-Based Strategy 10.5%, Sci-fi 8.2%
- #42 Astra Exodus
73% matchMixed45% of 53 reviews2020
Dev: Atomic KaiserPub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Astra Exodus is a single player turn based Sci-fi 4X strategy game inspired by the classics, with a multiple choice narrative driven epic campaign, top down real time tactical battles and an extensive semi-randomized research grid.
Why similar: Strategy 39%, 4X 26.4% ★, Indie 14.4%, Turn-Based 12.2%, Turn-Based Strategy 4.3%
- #43 Star Dynasties
70% matchMostly Positive72% of 499 reviews2021
Dev: Pawley GamesPub: Iceberg Interactive
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 7.6 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Take the reins of a feudal dynasty in a divided galaxy following the destruction of earth. Star Dynasties is a turn based, procedurally generated narrative of human drama and personal politics, mixed with a light empire management layer. Your choices. Your legacy.
Why similar: Turn-Based 31.2%, Space 22.3%, Strategy 17.6%, Turn-Based Strategy 16.4%, Sci-fi 12.6%
- #44 The Pegasus Expedition
69% matchMixed63% of 388 reviews2023
Dev: Kalla GameworksPub: Fulqrum Publishing
Windows
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 94%
The Pegasus Expedition is a story-driven sci-fi grand strategy game set in a key moment for humankind’s survival. Facing an overwhelming threat at home, humanity sends expeditions to the Pegasus Galaxy in a desperate attempt to find a refuge for the population of Earth.
Why similar: 4X 48.6% ★, Space 19.3%, Strategy 13.9%, Turn-Based Strategy 9.9%, Sci-fi 8.3%
- #45 Sins of a Solar Empire II
66% matchVery Positive84% of 8,424 reviews2024
Dev: Ironclad Games CorporationPub: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 9.5 hrsMean: 30.8 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 48.8% ★, Space 26.3%, Strategy 17.4%, Sci-fi 7.5%
- #46 Galaxy Reavers
71% matchMixed69% of 205 reviews2016
Dev: Good Games
Windows
This is a fun yet challenging RTS game. To survive in the vast galaxy, you need to build up your own fleet and customize your warships. You will also learn to control them efficiently in battle to defeat your enemies, conquer planets, and expand your galactic empire!
Why similar: Space 40.4%, Strategy 40.2%, Sci-fi 11.4%, Indie 8%
- #47 Maia
71% matchMixed44% of 1,064 reviews2018
Dev: Simon RothPub: Machine Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 30 minMean: 4.4 hrs≥1hr: 41%
Maia is a colony building game set in the not-so-distant future. Your colonists make planetfall on a hostile world and you must ensure their survival and their safety, constructing their off-world habitat from almost nothing and sheltering them from a dangerous, often deadly environment.
Why similar: Strategy 37.2%, Space 29.9%, Sci-fi 20.9%, Indie 11.9%
- #48 Sid Meier's Civilization®: Beyond Earth™
69% matchMixed61% of 23,068 reviews2014
Dev: Firaxis GamesPub: 2K
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 7.9 hrsMean: 29.6 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Sid Meier’s Civilization: Beyond Earth is a new science-fiction-themed entry into the award winning Civilization series. As part of an expedition sent to find a home beyond Earth, lead your people into a new frontier, explore and colonize an alien planet and create a new civilization in space.
Why similar: 4X 32.1% ★, Turn-Based 17.5%, Strategy 16.9%, Space 13.7%, Turn-Based Strategy 12.2%
- #49 Nomad Fleet
70% matchMixed66% of 214 reviews2016
Dev: Autarca
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 3.2 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Nomad Fleet is a RTS game where you must lead the last remnants of Mankind to safety after a mysterious alien race has hunted them near extinction. Lead a fully armed fleet of battleships, carriers and fighters through a series of randomized scenarios and encounters where they must fight for their survival while scavenging for resources,...
Why similar: Strategy 40.8%, Space 34.1%, Indie 12.6%, Sci-fi 12.5%
- #50 Sins of a Solar Empire: Trinity®
69% matchMostly Positive77% of 814 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 55.6% ★, Space 20.3%, Strategy 15.3%, Sci-fi 8.8%
- #51 Halcyon 6: Starbase Commander
67% matchVery Positive84% of 1,317 reviews2016
Dev: Massive Damage, Inc.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.7 hrsMean: 6.7 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Halcyon 6: Starbase Commander is a retro space strategy RPG with base building, deep tactical combat, crew management and emergent storytelling.
Why similar: Space 31%, Strategy 28%, Turn-Based 22.1%, Turn-Based Strategy 11%, Indie 7.9%
- #52 Riftborne
63% matchVery Positive92% of 66 reviews2026
Dev: Pitio Productions
Windows · Linux
Riftborne is a classic terminal based, real time, grand strategy game. Construct space ships. Take part in factional warfare. Hire galactic hit-men on your rivals. Raid neighbors for rare resources. Train spies to infiltrate enemy bases for key intel. Grow your empire to dominate the galaxy.
Why similar: 4X 58.1% ★, Space 24.8%, Strategy 17.1%
- #53 Imperium Galactica
67% matchVery Positive93% of 157 reviews2017
Dev: Digital RealityPub: THQ Nordic
Windows
Imperium Galactica. The Universe is yours... if you can handle it. The fourth millennium. Mankind has colonised the galaxy. Created an Empire. Now, it is crumbling. The aliens are restless. The oppressed are building armies. And a strange invader is headed for the heart of the Empire.
Why similar: Strategy 100%
- #54 ENDLESS Space™ 2
65% matchVery Positive83% of 22,925 reviews2017
Dev: AMPLITUDE Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.3 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 77%, 4X 9.1% ★, Space 7.5%, Turn-Based 2.9%, Sci-fi 1.8%
- #55 Last Days of Old Earth
68% matchMixed60% of 57 reviews2016
Dev: Auroch DigitalPub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 5.6 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Last Days of Old Earth is a rich strategy game set in our far, far future where the sun is dying. Can you command the last noble tribes of humanity as they attempt to survive among the machines and marauding clans?
Why similar: 4X 33.6% ★, Turn-Based 28.8%, Strategy 23.5%, Turn-Based Strategy 12.4%, Sci-fi 1.7%
- #56 Slipways
63% matchVery Positive93% of 2,287 reviews2021
Dev: Beetlewing
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.1 hrsMean: 13.7 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Weave isolated planets into a vast trade empire. Hatch plans. Research game-breaking technologies. Still be done in time for lunch. Enjoy the endless possibilities of a space grand strategy game in 60 minutes flat.
Why similar: 4X 30.1% ★, Turn-Based 23.3%, Strategy 14.4%, Space 11.4%, Turn-Based Strategy 11.1%