- #1 Kerbal Space Program
97% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 146,254 reviews2015
Dev: SquadPub: Private Division
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 66.1 hrs≥1hr: 84%
In Kerbal Space Program, take charge of the space program for the alien race known as the Kerbals. You have access to an array of parts to assemble fully-functional spacecraft that flies (or doesn’t) based on realistic aerodynamic and orbital physics.
Why similar: Space Sim 22.9%, Space 19.2%, Science 17.7%, Sandbox 14.4%, Simulation 5.9%
Why You'll Like It: The definitive experience for rocket building and orbital physics that serves as the gold standard for the genre.
- #2 Juno: New Origins
96% matchVery Positive89% of 3,531 reviews2023
Dev: Jundroo, LLC
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.1 hrsMean: 13.6 hrs≥1hr: 51%
Bring to life anything you can imagine from rockets and airplanes to cars and more. Automate them with a visual programming language. Explore 3D planets and make your own. Share your creations online. Complete contracts, conquer milestones, and unlock technology in the newly added Career Mode.
Why similar: Space Sim 26.3%, Science 19.4%, Space 11.1%, Sandbox 11%, Moddable 6.6% ★
Why You'll Like It: Offers an incredibly deep modular building system and realistic physics that closely mirror the complexity of rocket science.
- #3 SimpleRockets
96% matchVery Positive85% of 365 reviews2015
Dev: Jundroo, LLC
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 96%
I am excited to release my first game on Steam! SimpleRockets was released in 2013 for mobile and I've put a ton of work into it to get it ready for PC and Mac. It was inspired by KSP, and it offers a simpler 2D experience for building rockets and exploring space with realistic orbital mechanics.
Why similar: Space Sim 41%, Sandbox 22%, Space 12.5%, Simulation 12.1%, Physics 8.1%
Why You'll Like It: A classic 2D space-sim that shares the same intuitive building and orbital mechanics found in Spaceflight Simulator.
- #4 Kerbal Space Program 2
95% matchMostly Negative26% of 31,953 reviews2023
Dev: Intercept GamesPub: Private Division
Windows
Median: 7.7 hrsMean: 19.4 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Kerbal Space Program 2 is the sequel to the acclaimed space-flight simulation game Kerbal Space Program. Enter the next generation of space adventure with exciting new parts, stunning visuals, fully revamped UI and Map View, and rich new environments to explore.
Why similar: Space Sim 20.6%, Science 19%, Space 13.6%, Sandbox 13.1%, Building 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: A modern evolution of the original formula with improved visuals and expanded capabilities for interstellar travel.
- #5 Tiny Space Academy
94% matchMixed64% of 55 reviews2021
Dev: Full Orbit Games LLC
Windows · Mac
Tiny Space Academy is a 2D space sim where you can grow your own space agency and explore our solar system with rockets you design! Learn basic orbital mechanics, run science experiments, and get your astronauts back to Earth safely.
Why similar: Space Sim 34.7%, Space 21%, Simulation 8.4%, Building 7.2%, Physics 7.2%
Why You'll Like It: Captures the charming 2D aesthetic while providing a surprisingly robust simulation of space exploration and flight.
- #6 SimplePlanes
94% matchVery Positive93% of 10,898 reviews2015
Dev: Jundroo, LLC
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 12.6 hrs≥1hr: 74%
Build airplanes by snapping parts together, designing wing sections, and attaching engines. At any time, you can strap yourself into the cockpit and see how it flies with realistic physics. If you're not in the mood for building, over 100,000 airplanes are available to download for free.
Why similar: Sandbox 34.5%, Moddable 16.8% ★, Building 14.8%, Exploration 12.6%, Physics 12.4%
Why You'll Like It: Features a highly flexible modular building system that rewards players for understanding aerodynamics and flight physics.
- #7 Universe Sandbox
93% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 32,034 reviews2015
Dev: Giant Army
Windows · Mac
Median: 2.4 hrsMean: 24.4 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 Sim 27.3%, Science 17.5%, Sandbox 16.2%, Space 15.5%, Simulation 6.1%
Why You'll Like It: An essential tool for experimenting with gravity and orbital mechanics on a cosmic scale.
- #8 Cosmoteer: Starship Architect & Commander
92% matchVery Positive94% of 12,820 reviews2022
Dev: Walternate Realities
Windows
Median: 19.2 hrsMean: 41.1 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Design and simulate the starships of your dreams! Command your ship or fleet in epic battles and manage your crew while exploring a dangerous galaxy. Play alone or with friends, test your ships in online PvP, and let your imagination reach for the stars!
Why similar: Space Sim 30.4%, Spaceships 22.4% ★, Space 17.2%, Building 7.5%, Exploration 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on 2D ship building and physics-based combat, perfect for those who enjoy the engineering aspect of space design.
- #9 Flyout
91% matchVery Positive82% of 2,273 reviews2023
Dev: Stonext Games
Windows
Median: 2.7 hrsMean: 19.2 hrs≥1hr: 61%
Build and fly realistic aircraft. Use free-form fuselage and wing editor tools and tune your engines to recreate aircraft from any era or design your own.
Why similar: Sandbox 33%, Science 24.7%, Simulation 15.8%, Building 11.7%, Physics 9.3%
Why You'll Like It: Provides an advanced building suite that allows for precise control over vehicle design and flight dynamics.
- #10 Stormworks: Build and Rescue
90% matchVery Positive91% of 59,745 reviews2020
Dev: Geometa
Windows · Mac
Median: 17.4 hrsMean: 113.5 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Join a world where you design, create and pilot your own air sea rescue service. Release your inner hero as you battle fierce storms out at sea to rescue those in need.
Why similar: Sandbox 45.3%, Building 17.1%, Physics 13.1%, Exploration 12.8%, Open World 11.7%
Why You'll Like It: Requires deep engineering knowledge to build functional vehicles that can survive harsh physics-based environments.
- #11 Celestial Command
91% matchMixed62% of 704 reviews2014
Dev: Science Interactive
Windows · 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 32.9%, Space Sim 24.8%, Sandbox 20.5%, Simulation 11.5%, Building 5.6%
Why You'll Like It: A 2D space-sim that emphasizes realistic physics and modular ship construction in a challenging space environment.
- #12 Space Engineers
89% matchVery Positive89% of 134,313 reviews2019
Dev: Keen Software House
Windows
Median: 9.0 hrsMean: 96.4 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Space Engineers is a sandbox engineering game where you design and build ships, stations, and planetary bases in a fully destructible environment. Explore planets and space, mine resources, survive hazards, and engage in combat alone or with friends in Creative or Survival modes.
Why similar: Space Sim 29.1%, Space 14.9%, Sandbox 14.6%, Moddable 9% ★, Building 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: The premier 3D sandbox for modular engineering and building complex space-faring vessels.
- #13 SpaceEngine
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive96% of 16,417 reviews2019
Dev: Cosmographic Software
Windows
Median: 2.1 hrsMean: 44.3 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 Sim 28.3%, Science 19.3%, Space 16.8%, Sandbox 16.8%, Open World 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: The ultimate tool for exploring the vast scale of the universe with a focus on scientific accuracy.
- #14 Trailmakers
88% matchVery Positive92% of 38,735 reviews2019
Dev: Flashbulb
Windows
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 15.5 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Build the ultimate vehicle and explore a vast open world filled with challenges and adventure. Play solo or team up with friends in multiplayer to conquer the toughest obstacles. With a thrilling campaign mode and endless creative possibilities, Trailmakers is the ultimate sandbox for adventurers.
Why similar: Space 34.3%, Sandbox 21%, Crafting 10.5%, Building 9.3%, Exploration 7.7%
Why You'll Like It: An accessible yet powerful sandbox that focuses on the joy of building vehicles and testing them in physics-driven worlds.
- #15 Aviassembly
86% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 9,371 reviews2025
Dev: Jelle Booij
Windows
Median: 6.2 hrsMean: 7.4 hrs≥1hr: 82%
Build and fly your own airplane! Complete missions to earn money, upgrade your plane, and discover new locations in an open world.
Why similar: Sandbox 24.2%, Science 21.5%, Building 12.8%, Crafting 9.7%, Physics 9.4%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a sandbox environment where the focus is entirely on the engineering and physics of flight.
- #16 Flight Of Nova
87% matchVery Positive93% of 561 reviews2022
Dev: Aerovery Lab
Windows · Linux
Flight of Nova is a simulator based on newtonian mechanics in which you control spacecraft in the Noren star system. You fly multiple types of spacecraft doing transport and search missions in an environment with realistic aerodynamics and orbital physics.
Why similar: Space Sim 32.7%, Spaceships 20.4% ★, Sandbox 10.9%, Space 9%, Simulation 6%
Why You'll Like It: Features realistic space flight and atmospheric entry mechanics that provide a grounded, immersive experience.
- #17 Nimbatus - Drone Creator
86% matchVery Positive91% of 274 reviews2020
Dev: Stray Fawn Studio
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 42 minMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 41%
Use the Nimbatus Drone Creator to construct physically simulated drones and try them out in a virtual testing environment. Do you have what it takes to become a drone engineer?
Why similar: Space Sim 23.8%, Science 18%, Sandbox 14%, Simulation 12.9%, Space 11.2%
Why You'll Like It: Combines procedural building with physics-based combat, allowing for endless experimentation with ship designs.
- #18 Starship EVO
85% matchVery Positive84% of 1,522 reviews2020
Dev: Moonfire Entertainment
Windows
Median: 1.6 hrsMean: 6.4 hrs≥1hr: 58%
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 23%, Space Sim 22.6%, Sandbox 18.5%, Building 10%, Simulation 9%
Why You'll Like It: Allows for highly detailed modular ship construction with a focus on functional engineering and interior design.
- #19 Rocket Science
84% matchVery Positive81% of 176 reviews2020
Dev: unbeGames
Windows
Take part in a space program. Design spacecrafts and send them off to explore the vast expanses of space. Experience the real scale of the Solar system and the size of its celestial bodies.
Why similar: Space Sim 23.9%, Science 18.3%, Space 14.1%, Sandbox 13.1%, Building 5.7%
Why You'll Like It: A physics-based sandbox that challenges players to design rockets capable of reaching orbit.
- #20 PixPhys
84% matchMostly Positive74% of 216 reviews2021
Dev: Red Starship
Windows · Linux
PixPhys is a 2D engineering sandbox with huge technical possibilities and scope for imagination: design equipment from a jet-powered cart to space stations.
Why similar: Sandbox 25.2%, Space 23.4%, Moddable 12.5% ★, Building 9.2%, Physics 8.8%
Why You'll Like It: A 2D physics sandbox that allows for creative experimentation with space-themed contraptions.
- #21 Space Simulation Toolkit
83% matchVery Positive81% of 521 reviews2020
Dev: Pavel Kudinov
Windows
Physics sandbox game that uses a graphics card as a supercomputer. Change the laws of physics, design mechanisms, create A-Life worlds and inhabit them with living beings, experiment with evolution and AI.
Why similar: Space Sim 28.3%, Sandbox 24.1%, Space 14.2%, Simulation 11.8%, Physics 8.6%
Why You'll Like It: Provides a sandbox environment specifically designed to test orbital mechanics and physics theories.
- #22 StarbaseSim
80% matchVery Positive95% of 61 reviews2025
Dev: AshtorakSimGames
Windows · Linux
Operate the Starship space launch system and learn how to catch a rocket to understand what it takes to colonize Mars in this ever-evolving simulation of SpaceX Starbase Texas.
Why similar: Space Sim 44.5%, Sandbox 22.4%, Space 12.4%, Simulation 9.8%, Realistic 4.4%
Why You'll Like It: An immersive simulation that focuses on the challenges of operating and maintaining a space station.
- #23 Space Mechanic Simulator
81% matchMixed64% of 121 reviews2023
Dev: Atomic JellyPub: Wildlands Interactive
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 5.2 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Become a Space Mechanic! Get your hands dirty, explore the depths of space and repair broken machinery. Diagnose problems using diagrams and tools, perform repairs, manage your resources and watch the simulated machinery come alive. Or just gaze upon the beauty of the Solar System.
Why similar: Space Sim 34.1%, Science 21.5%, Space 17.7%, Simulation 6.8%, Building 5.8%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a technical look at the maintenance and repair of space equipment, perfect for fans of the space theme.
- #24 Satellite Command
82% matchMixed64% of 81 reviews2016
Dev: Stormtide
Windows
Satellite Command is a realistic, relaxing astrophysics simulator. Complete contracts with real data, launch and take control of ever more powerful Satellites, research advanced technology and build your Space Agency!
Why similar: Space Sim 29.4%, Science 22.3%, Space 16.1%, Sandbox 16.1%, Simulation 6.4%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on the strategic and orbital management side of space flight in a realistic simulation format.
- #25 Solar Expanse - Space Exploration Manager
77% matchVery Positive88% of 1,295 reviews2026
Dev: SpaceOpsPub: Games Operators
Windows
Median: 4.8 hrsMean: 14.7 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Explore the Solar System. Mine and drop asteroids. Colonize and terraform. Lead the space race and compete with other corporations on your way to profit. Watch the expansion of human race over the centuries.
Why similar: Space Sim 24.7%, Science 20.9%, Space 16.2%, Sandbox 14.4%, Simulation 5.5%
- #26 Astrox Imperium
81% matchVery Positive84% of 1,249 reviews2019
Dev: Jace Masula
Windows
Median: 4.1 hrsMean: 16.2 hrs≥1hr: 66%
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 Sim 34.6%, Space 30%, Sandbox 16.4%, Simulation 8.6%, Open World 4.7%
Why You'll Like It: A space simulation that provides a deep progression system and a vast universe to explore.
- #27 Autocraft
82% matchMixed56% of 298 reviews2017
Dev: Alientrap
Windows · Mac
Median: 54 minMean: 3.2 hrs≥1hr: 44%
Create, Collect, and Crash in Autocraft, a physics destruction sandbox. Create your own cars, rockets, tanks, planes, boats, and more.
Why similar: Sandbox 27.9%, Space 17.7%, Space Sim 16%, Simulation 10.2%, Building 10%
Why You'll Like It: Features a robust building system that emphasizes physics constraints and mechanical design.
- #28 Reentry - A Space Flight Simulator
77% matchOverwhelmingly Positive97% of 1,351 reviews2025
Dev: Lyra Creative
Windows
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 6.3 hrs≥1hr: 70%
Do you have what it takes to become an astronaut? Reentry is a realistic space flight simulator inspired by the early NASA space programs, from orbiting Earth in Mercury and Gemini, to the moon landing in project Apollo. Learn the procedures. Operate the spacecraft. Complete the mission.
Why similar: Space Sim 33.8%, Science 20.6%, Space 18.4%, Simulation 6.6%, Exploration 5.2%
- #29 Space Engineers 2
78% matchMostly Positive75% of 5,449 reviews2025
Dev: Keen Software House
Windows
Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 11.1 hrs≥1hr: 64%
Space Engineers 2 is a playable Early Access Alpha sandbox focused on engineering, exploration, and colonization in a fully destructible universe. Design and build ships, stations, and planetary bases while uncovering the story of Miro and Ivan Sokol. Help shape the future of the Almagest system.
Why similar: Space Sim 18.2%, Science 15.5%, Sandbox 13.3%, Space 13%, Moddable 7.4% ★
- #30 SimplePlanes 2
76% matchVery Positive92% of 1,301 reviews2026
Dev: Jundroo, LLC
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 7.8 hrs≥1hr: 58%
SimplePlanes is back! Build planes, cars, or anything else using powerful procedural parts! Explore detailed environments with friends in multiplayer, cause chaos, or download 1,000,000 community crafts for free.
Why similar: Sandbox 39.5%, Building 17.1%, Simulation 15.3%, Exploration 12.9%, Open World 11.8%
- #31 TerraTech
78% matchVery Positive91% of 24,920 reviews2018
Dev: Payload StudiosPub: Mythwright
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 8.0 hrsMean: 32.5 hrs≥1hr: 90%
TerraTech is an open-world, sandbox adventure game, where you design and build your own creations through a mix of crafting, combat and discovery. Design vehicles from a huge library of blocks. Scavenge, craft and buy new parts to survive and become the ultimate planetary prospector.
Why similar: Sandbox 38.6%, Building 19.3%, Crafting 14.5%, Open World 11%, Exploration 8%
Why You'll Like It: A fun, physics-based sandbox that allows for creative vehicle building and exploration across alien landscapes.
- #32 The Last Starship
74% matchMostly Positive75% of 1,688 reviews2026
Dev: Introversion Software
Windows · Mac
Median: 6.1 hrsMean: 12.2 hrs≥1hr: 80%
The Last Starship is a 2D space construction game where you design and upgrade your starship. Choose your path: pirate hunter, miner, engineer, spacebus driver, and more, whilst exploring vibrant star systems. Enjoy a growing sandbox world, with regular free updates. Your cosmic adventure awaits!
Why similar: Space Sim 30.3%, Space 15.6%, Sandbox 15.4%, Science 15.1%, Building 6.5%
- #33 Space Simulator
79% matchMostly Negative37% of 163 reviews2018
Dev: Stuka Games IncPub: Brixton Dynamics Ltd
Windows
Realistic simulation of spaceflight in a full sized Solar System, with all the planets and their major moons. using real forces, distances, velocities and time. Chapter 1: The Apollo Days. Incredibly detailed Apollo Program missions starting with Apollo 8 lunar orbit missions.
Why similar: Space Sim 44.9%, Space 33.8%, Simulation 21.3%
Why You'll Like It: A straightforward simulation that allows players to practice docking and orbital maneuvers in a space environment.
- #34 SpaceCraft
73% matchMixed65% of 2,687 reviews2026
Dev: Shiro Games
Windows
Median: 13.4 hrsMean: 47.3 hrs≥1hr: 91%
The Universe is yours. SpaceCraft is an online space exploration and building game. Explore a vast galaxy of solar systems and planets, mine and craft resources, design and build ships, automate planetary bases and interplanetary logistics, trade and cooperate.
Why similar: Space Sim 33.6%, Space 19.6%, Sandbox 17.8%, Crafting 8.5%, Exploration 6.8%
- #35 Out of Orbit
75% matchVery Positive80% of 168 reviews2023
Dev: Case Yellow Labs
Windows
Design, build, or pirate spaceships. Build bases on planets. Explore endless randomly generated universes, travel through black holes, command your crew, survive cosmic events, collect and trade materials, battle epic bosses, and much more. The sky is the limit, literally!
Why similar: Spaceships 27.9% ★, Space Sim 18.7%, Sandbox 17%, Space 14.9%, Building 6.9%
- #36 Nimbatus - The Space Drone Constructor
75% matchMostly Positive79% of 2,164 reviews2020
Dev: Stray Fawn StudioPub: Stray Fawn Publishing
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Command the Nimbatus and craft drones out of hundreds of different parts. Survive unknown threats in a fully destructible, procedural universe, compete against other players in different arenas or enjoy complete creative freedom in the sandbox.
Why similar: Space Sim 36.1%, Space 17%, Sandbox 13.3%, Crafting 8.2%, Exploration 6.7%
- #37 Learn to Fly 3
74% matchVery Positive95% of 11,264 reviews2017
Dev: Light Bringer Games inc.
Windows
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 7.6 hrs≥1hr: 71%
Build your spaceship from scratch, earn funds and invest them into building a bigger, better spaceship as you try and fly your way up to space!
Why similar: Sandbox 32.9%, Space 27.4%, Simulation 13.2%, Physics 13%, 2D 7.5%
- #38 Brick Rigs
70% matchVery Positive95% of 59,219 reviews2023
Dev: Fluppisoft GmbH
Windows · Linux
Median: 10.1 hrsMean: 77.8 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Do whatever you want in a physics sandbox full of chaotic destruction, endless player-made creations and unpredictable adventures. Build, destroy, roleplay and mess around solo or with friends!
Why similar: Sandbox 46.3%, Building 17.9%, Physics 13.1%, Open World 11.7%, Simulation 9.3%
- #39 ASTRONEER
72% matchVery Positive92% of 139,015 reviews2019
Dev: System Era Softworks
Windows
Median: 11.5 hrsMean: 44.6 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Interact with strange new worlds in a unique and tactile way, molding the environment itself as if it were clay in your hands. Build your base, master resource management, automate your production lines, and more as you unravel the mysteries of the universe, alone or with friends.
Why similar: Space 31.4%, Sandbox 22.3%, Exploration 10.2%, Crafting 9.6%, Open World 9.5%
- #40 Star Rangers™ XE
76% matchMixed40% 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: Space Sim 23%, Science 16.9%, Sandbox 16.8%, Space 15.4%, Simulation 8.1%
- #41 SpaceBourne
73% matchMostly Positive76% of 815 reviews2020
Dev: Burak Dabak
Windows
Median: 2.2 hrsMean: 9.7 hrs≥1hr: 60%
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 Sim 41.7%, Space 35.6%, Simulation 14.2%, Exploration 6.3%, Indie 2.1%
- #42 Sinking Simulator
71% matchVery Positive85% of 4,412 reviews2019
Dev: WicparPub: Pac0master
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 3.2 hrs≥1hr: 41%
The sequel to the unfinished Sinking Simulator, now with a lot more POWER!!!! Witness your witty love of chaos and destruction sinking 2D ships and everything else on board!
Why similar: Sandbox 53.1%, Simulation 23.9%, Physics 12.6%, 2D 6%, Indie 2.8%
- #43 Mars Horizon
71% matchVery Positive84% of 3,091 reviews2020
Dev: Auroch Digital
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 9.2 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Lead a major space agency as you guide humanity to Mars in this strategy simulation game. Construct a base, design and build rockets, conduct missions throughout the Solar System, and write your own history of Space exploration. Created with support from the European Space Agency.
Why similar: Space Sim 33.3%, Science 24.4%, Space 18.7%, Building 6.8%, Exploration 5.7%
- #44 People Playground
69% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 317,170 reviews2019
Dev: mestiezPub: Studio Minus
Windows
Median: 8.0 hrsMean: 57.5 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Shoot, stab, burn, poison, tear, vaporise, or crush ragdolls in a large open space.
Why similar: Sandbox 45.3%, Moddable 17.7% ★, Physics 12%, Building 7.6%, Simulation 7.4%
- #45 Next Space Rebels
70% matchVery Positive85% of 364 reviews2021
Dev: Studio Floris KaaykPub: Balor Games
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 7.6 hrs≥1hr: 96%
SPACE IS FOR EVERYONE. In Next Space Rebels, you will develop from a naive rocket hobbyist into an experienced space activist by designing, building, and launching rockets of increasing complexity.
Why similar: Science 27.6%, Simulation 17.4%, Space 14.9%, Crafting 11.6%, Building 11.2%
- #46 Mars First Logistics
66% matchVery Positive95% of 3,744 reviews2025
Dev: Shape Shop
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 10.4 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Build physically simulated rovers to transport awkwardly shaped cargo across the rugged terrain of Mars. Earn funds, unlock new parts, and use your ingenuity to help the Martians establish a new home. Playable solo or in online co-op!
Why similar: Space Sim 30.5%, Science 22.9%, Sandbox 16.2%, Building 7.2%, Exploration 5.9%
- #47 Empyrion - Galactic Survival
69% matchMostly Positive78% of 34,392 reviews2020
Dev: Eleon Game Studios
Windows
Median: 6.2 hrsMean: 77.1 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 Sim 29.4%, Space 16.9%, Sandbox 14.1%, Building 7.1%, Crafting 7%
- #48 SpaceKraft!
68% matchVery Positive91% of 97 reviews2024
Dev: Game Dev Garage
Windows
Gather crystals, repair/run crafting facilities, upgrade your spaceship, build machines, explore the open world, find your way back to mother earth.
Why similar: Space Sim 43.7%, Sandbox 21.3%, Simulation 7.9%, Physics 7.8%, Building 7.6%
- #49 ΔV: Rings of Saturn
67% matchVery Positive93% of 3,449 reviews2023
Dev: Kodera Software
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 8.3 hrsMean: 11.7 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 Sim 26.5%, Science 17.9%, Space 17%, Sandbox 9.7%, Exploration 5.5%
- #50 X-Plane 11
68% matchVery Positive93% of 20,233 reviews2017
Dev: Laminar Research
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 14.9 hrsMean: 161.9 hrs≥1hr: 91%
The future of flight simulation is now! X-Plane 11 is the detailed, realistic, and modern simulator you’ve been waiting for. Intuitive user interface, 3-D cockpits, new effects, 3-D sound, living airports and world-wide scenery.
Why similar: Simulation 38.7%, Realistic 15.9%, Sandbox 15.5%, Open World 14.5%, Physics 8.6%
- #51 Sprocket
67% matchVery Positive93% of 12,843 reviews2021
Dev: Hamish Dunn
Windows
Median: 6.0 hrsMean: 38.2 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Carefully balance mobility, firepower and armour in a dedicated tank designer. Then uncarefully put them to the test in a series of combat scenarios progressing through the ages of the tank. Here, your limit is what you can fit inside your hull and turret while still being able to move forwards.
Why similar: Sandbox 61%, Building 25.5%, Physics 13.5%
- #52 Steam Engine Simulator
66% matchOverwhelmingly Positive99% of 9,002 reviews2023
Dev: Ektorom Software Inc.
Windows
Median: 1.0 hrsMean: 6.5 hrs≥1hr: 50%
The Steam Engine Simulator shown on AngeTheGreat's YouTube channel.
Why similar: Simulation 36%, Physics 28%, 2D 15.1%, Science 10.2%, Singleplayer 6.2%
- #53 Kinetic Void
73% matchOverwhelmingly Negative17% of 1,558 reviews2014
Dev: Badland Studio
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.9 hrsMean: 3.7 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 39.9%, Sandbox 20.8%, Space Sim 16.8%, Simulation 11.7%, Building 4.7%
- #54 Stationeers
68% matchVery Positive88% of 9,229 reviews2017
Dev: RocketWerkz
Windows
Median: 10.2 hrsMean: 85.3 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Stationeers puts you in control of the construction and management of a space station to run by yourself or online with your friends. Complex atmospheric, electrical, manufacturing, agriculture, and gravitational systems require your thought and management at all times!
Why similar: Science 26.6%, Space 18.2%, Sandbox 18.2%, Moddable 10.9% ★, Crafting 9.5%
- #55 Jitter
65% matchVery Positive85% of 168 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 Sim 36.3%, Space 19.2%, Sandbox 17.3%, Exploration 7%, Physics 6.3%
- #56 StarMade
70% matchMixed68% of 2,991 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 29.4%, Sandbox 25%, Space Sim 15.7%, Building 7.8%, Open World 6.2%
- #57 Sector Space
64% matchVery Positive93% of 139 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 51.8%, Simulation 13.4%, Space 8.8%, Exploration 8.4%, Crafting 6.2%
- #58 Wayward Terran Frontier: Zero Falls
69% matchMixed67% of 542 reviews2016
Dev: Reason Generator Inc.
Windows
2d space combat like no other. From the perspective of a single crew member, explore the fully destructible interior of any ship in a massive living world. Engage in space combat with no hitpoints where you know your enemy is dead when you see them fall out of their ship into the cold dark of space.
Why similar: Space Sim 35.6%, Sandbox 17.1%, Space 15.5%, Simulation 6%, Open World 5.5%