- #1 FTL: Faster Than Light
97% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 77,568 reviews2012
Dev: Subset Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 7.1 hrsMean: 33.7 hrs≥1hr: 89%
This "spaceship simulation roguelike-like" allows you to take your ship and crew on an adventure through a randomly generated galaxy filled with glory and bitter defeat.
Why similar: Space 17%, Space Sim 16% ★, Perma Death 15.6%, Sci-fi 14.5%, Difficult 9.3%
Why You'll Like It: It captures the intense pressure of ship management, tactical combat, and crew survival in a hostile galaxy.
- #2 Space Rangers HD: A War Apart
96% 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 32.3%, Sci-fi 12.7%, RPG 12.2%, Open World 10.5%, Strategy 10.5%
Why You'll Like It: This is the closest spiritual successor to the sandbox, faction-driven, and multi-role gameplay found in Star Traders.
- #3 X4: Foundations
96% 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 20.4% ★, Space Sim 18.4% ★, Moddable 12.9% ★, Economy 10.5%, Sandbox 8.9%
Why You'll Like It: Provides an unparalleled sandbox space simulation with complex economic and faction-based systems.
- #4 Halcyon 6: Starbase Commander
95% matchVery Positive84% of 1,312 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: Turn-Based Combat 24.8%, Space 22.8%, Tactical RPG 18.9%, Strategy 13.9%, RPG 8.9%
Why You'll Like It: Features deep tactical combat and crew management mechanics set within a retro-styled sci-fi universe.
- #5 Crying Suns
94% matchVery Positive86% of 4,448 reviews2019
Dev: Alt Shift
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 7.5 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Crying Suns is a tactical rogue-lite that puts you in the role of a space fleet commander as you explore a mysteriously fallen empire. In this story rich experience inspired by Dune and Foundation, each successful run will uncover the truth about the Empire... and yourself as well.
Why similar: Perma Death 19.9%, Space 17.3%, Sci-fi 16.8%, Procedural Generation 16.6%, Roguelite 15.8%
Why You'll Like It: A narrative-heavy tactical roguelite that emphasizes exploration and managing a flagship through a dying empire.
- #6 Battle Brothers
94% matchVery Positive88% of 27,117 reviews2017
Dev: Overhype StudiosPub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 19.4 hrsMean: 93.4 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Lead a mercenary company in this tactical RPG set in a medieval fantasy world. Chase fame and fortune as you choose where to go, who to recruit, which contracts to pursue, and how to train and equip your men in a procedurally generated open world campaign.
Why similar: Moddable 43.6% ★, Sandbox 18.5%, Open World 13.6%, Simulation 8.5%, RPG 8%
Why You'll Like It: While fantasy-themed, it is the gold standard for the specific style of mercenary crew management and tactical turn-based combat seen in Star Traders.
- #7 HighFleet
93% matchVery Positive88% of 7,155 reviews2021
Dev: Konstantin KoshutinPub: MicroProse Software
Windows
Median: 5.1 hrsMean: 16.8 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Battle for survival in the skies of a mysterious future Earth in this unique action-strategy game mixing arcade combat, exploration, management and diplomacy. As giant flying ships wage spectacular aerial warfare, a prophecy tells of one who will save the world – could it be you?
Why similar: Sci-fi 47%, Strategy 27.3%, Simulation 25.7%
Why You'll Like It: Offers a unique blend of strategic fleet management and intense tactical combat with a heavy focus on ship customization.
- #8 Star Valor
91% 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 22%, Sandbox 21.4%, Procedural Generation 17%, Sci-fi 14.8%, Open World 13.3%
Why You'll Like It: An action-RPG sandbox that excels at ship customization and procedural exploration.
- #9 Shortest Trip to Earth
92% matchMostly Positive77% of 1,426 reviews2019
Dev: Interactive Fate
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.2 hrsMean: 6.6 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Shortest Trip to Earth is a roguelike spaceship simulator focused on exploration, ship management and tactical battles. Embark on a perilous journey across the universe with nuclear missiles, armed crew and a cat.
Why similar: Space Sim 23.3% ★, Sci-fi 15.6%, Space 15.4%, Roguelite 15.2%, Difficult 14.2%
Why You'll Like It: A challenging roguelite that forces you to manage ship systems and crew survival during a long-distance space journey.
- #10 Stellar Tactics
91% matchVery Positive80% of 1,560 reviews2026
Dev: Don WilkinsPub: Maverick Games
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 14.6 hrs≥1hr: 65%
A Sci-Fi role-playing game featuring turn-based ground combat, space exploration, deep character customization and a massive living universe with thousands of star systems. Equip your ships with the best equipment you can find, gather a powerful crew of mercenaries and set out into the void!
Why similar: Tactical RPG 32.8%, Sandbox 16.9%, Turn-Based Combat 13.9%, Sci-fi 10.6%, Space 9.6%
Why You'll Like It: Combines deep tactical RPG combat with space exploration and ship-based progression.
- #11 Approaching Infinity
89% matchOverwhelmingly Positive95% of 709 reviews2025
Dev: IBOL
Windows
Median: 3.9 hrsMean: 7.3 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Approaching Infinity is a turn-based space RPG in the spirit of the sci-fi classics, with endless progression and exploration. Fight tactical battles or use diplomacy. Seek powerful artifacts. Quest, mine, trade, and craft. Level up forever or attempt 10 victories in hardcore or adventure mode.
Why similar: Space Sim 20% ★, Perma Death 17.3%, Procedural Generation 15.6%, Sci-fi 15.1%, Open World 11.2%
Why You'll Like It: A deep, procedurally generated space exploration RPG that focuses on discovery and character growth.
- #12 Elite Dangerous
90% 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 35.1% ★, Space 14.2%, Trading 11.7% ★, Sci-fi 11%, Open World 10.4%
Why You'll Like It: The definitive open-world space simulation for players who want to live the life of a captain in a massive, realistic galaxy.
- #13 Sunless Skies: Sovereign Edition
89% matchVery Positive84% of 3,416 reviews2019
Dev: Failbetter Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 2.5 hrsMean: 17.4 hrs≥1hr: 66%
SAIL THE STARS. BETRAY YOUR QUEEN. MURDER A SUN. Sunless Skies is a Gothic Horror roleplay game with a focus on exploration and exquisite storytelling.
Why similar: Space 53.4%, RPG 46.6%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on exploration, narrative-driven choices, and the constant struggle to manage your vessel and crew in a perilous environment.
- #14 Endless Sky
88% 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 21.9%, Trading 19.5% ★, Space Sim 15.1% ★, Sci-fi 11.2%, Open World 10%
Why You'll Like It: A classic open-world sandbox that allows for trading, combat, and exploring a vast, procedurally generated galaxy.
- #15 Rebel Galaxy
87% 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 24.1%, Space Sim 22% ★, Sci-fi 14.9%, Open World 11.5%, Trading 10.7% ★
Why You'll Like It: Captures the sci-fi atmosphere and ship-to-ship combat feel with a focus on trading and mercenary work.
- #16 Starcom: Nexus
86% matchVery Positive91% of 2,274 reviews2019
Dev: Wx3 Labs, LLC
Windows · Linux
Median: 3.8 hrsMean: 13.6 hrs≥1hr: 84%
Suddenly thrown into an unknown galaxy, you must explore, fight or befriend aliens and transform your ship from a small survey vessel into a powerful battlecruiser to unravel the mystery of the forces that brought you here and find your way home.
Why similar: Space 28.8%, Space Sim 27.7% ★, Sci-fi 21.1%, Open World 11.4%, RPG 9.2%
Why You'll Like It: An exploration-heavy RPG that features modular ship construction and a focus on uncovering alien mysteries.
- #17 Starpoint Gemini Warlords
86% 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 Sim 19.6% ★, Moddable 18.9% ★, Tactical RPG 12.3%, Space 10.5%, Sci-fi 9.1%
Why You'll Like It: Blends space combat with strategy and faction management, allowing you to build your own space empire.
- #18 Ostranauts
85% 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 20.3% ★, Space Sim 17.9% ★, Difficult 13.4%, Procedural Generation 9.9%, Sandbox 9.1%
Why You'll Like It: A hardcore space simulation that focuses on the gritty, detailed management of a ship and its crew.
- #19 Terra Invicta
82% matchVery Positive81% of 9,023 reviews2026
Dev: Pavonis InteractivePub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Median: 9.5 hrsMean: 51.4 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: Moddable 34% ★, Economy 19.3%, Management 16.4%, Sandbox 15.2%, Simulation 7.9%
Why You'll Like It: A grand strategy game that leans heavily into the political intrigue and faction-based conflict found in the background of Star Traders.
- #20 Void Destroyer 2
84% 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 21.2% ★, Moddable 18.9% ★, Trading 18.8% ★, Sandbox 9.9%, Sci-fi 8%
Why You'll Like It: A sandbox space sim that balances action-heavy combat with strategic command elements.
- #21 Stardeus
83% matchVery Positive87% of 1,529 reviews2022
Dev: Kodo LinijaPub: Paradox Arc
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 8.7 hrsMean: 22.6 hrs≥1hr: 77%
Stardeus is a deep colony sim set on a broken starship manned by drones and hibernating human survivors. As the AI, have your drones repair your ship, save your crew and travel the stars in this beautiful simulation.
Why similar: Moddable 19.8% ★, Space Sim 17.6% ★, Sandbox 9.4%, Sci-fi 9.4%, Procedural Generation 9.1%
Why You'll Like It: A colony-management sim that focuses on the survival and maintenance of a ship and its crew.
- #22 Objects in Space
84% 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 Sim 24.7% ★, Space 20.3%, Simulation 16.2%, Strategy 12.2%, RPG 12.2%
Why You'll Like It: A realistic space simulation that emphasizes navigation, ship management, and strategic decision-making.
- #23 Convoy
82% matchMostly Positive78% of 1,462 reviews2015
Dev: Convoy GamesPub: Indietopia Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 5.1 hrs≥1hr: 87%
Convoy is a tactical roguelike-like inspired by Mad Max and FTL in which you cross a wasteland in search of parts for your broken ship. Presented in pixel art and set in a future post-apocalyptic setting, Convoy is a squad based tactical combat roguelike-like in its core.
Why similar: Moddable 29.9% ★, Sci-fi 15.5%, Roguelite 15.2%, Difficult 13%, Strategy 11.7%
Why You'll Like It: Features tactical combat and resource management in a harsh, procedurally generated world that mirrors the survival feel of Star Traders.
- #24 Out There: Ω Edition
81% matchMostly Positive76% of 1,716 reviews2015
Dev: Mi-Clos Studio
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.0 hrsMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 93%
Out There is an award-winning space exploration game blending roguelike, resource management and interactive fiction.
Why similar: Space 20.9%, Sci-fi 19.7%, Procedural Generation 17.3%, Roguelite 14.8%, Difficult 14.5%
Why You'll Like It: A survival-focused space game that emphasizes resource management and difficult narrative choices.
- #25 Between the Stars
77% 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 Sim 24.9% ★, Space 16.2%, Sci-fi 9.9%, Tactical RPG 9.8%, Sandbox 8.7%
- #26 Interstellaria
81% matchMixed56% of 409 reviews2015
Dev: Coldrice Games LLC
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.1 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 74%
Managing a fleet across a dangerous galaxy. Every star and planet holds untold riches and dangers. Each encounter will require skills in trading, diplomacy, and combat. Allocate power to engines, charge all weapons, and take on the worst the galaxy has to handle.
Why similar: Trading 29% ★, Space Sim 25.1% ★, Management 13.2%, Sci-fi 12.5%, Space 12.4%
Why You'll Like It: Focuses on crew management and ship-to-ship combat with a charming pixel-art aesthetic.
- #27 Star Nomad 2
80% matchMostly Positive72% of 158 reviews2015
Dev: Huy Phan
Windows · Mac
A space trader & combat sim meets squad-RPG, large scale conquest, choice driven gameplay with fluid & punchy tactical real-time combat set in a dynamic open-world sandbox.
Why similar: Space 16.1%, Space Sim 14% ★, Sandbox 11.8%, Sci-fi 11.1%, Simulation 9.8%
Why You'll Like It: An RPG-focused sandbox game that allows for trading, combat, and exploration in a top-down perspective.
- #28 Void War
75% matchVery Positive94% of 3,537 reviews2025
Dev: Tundra
Windows
Median: 7.7 hrsMean: 14.5 hrs≥1hr: 83%
Command an ancient starship and fight your way to the heart of a dying Empire. Fend off attacks from demented cultists, craven space pirates, and xenophobic Imperial soldiers. Discover powerful artifacts and use them to build your ship into a fearsome war engine.
Why similar: Perma Death 21.1%, Space 14.5%, Procedural Generation 13.9%, Roguelite 13.7%, Difficult 13%
- #29 Wayward Terran Frontier: Zero Falls
79% matchMixed68% of 536 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 26.7% ★, Trading 18.6% ★, Sandbox 12.7%, Space 9.7%, Open World 9.7%
Why You'll Like It: Offers deep ship construction and sandbox exploration in a persistent, dangerous galaxy.
- #30 Space Rogue
79% matchMixed64% of 451 reviews2016
Dev: Red Beat
Windows · Mac
Median: 3.5 hrsMean: 4.7 hrs≥1hr: 92%
Take on the role of a spaceship captain. Explore new worlds, and engage in intense ship-to-ship battles. Develop unique battle tactics, upgrade your ship, and recruit crew members as you fight for peace or piracy.
Why similar: Space 23.1%, Sandbox 21.2%, Sci-fi 15%, Strategy 11%, Perma Death 9.8%
Why You'll Like It: A survival-focused strategy game that emphasizes exploration and tactical decision-making in space.
- #31 X3: Terran Conflict
78% 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: Trading 17.6% ★, Space Sim 17.5% ★, Space 17.3%, Sandbox 10.2%, Sci-fi 9%
Why You'll Like It: A classic, deep space simulation that offers a massive sandbox for trading, fleet management, and faction warfare.
- #32 Cosmonautica
78% 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 22.7% ★, Space Sim 15.9% ★, Economy 10.4%, Management 8.7%, Space 8%
Why You'll Like It: A trading and management simulation that focuses on the daily life of a space captain and their crew.
- #33 Transcendence
77% 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: Trading 17.6% ★, Space Sim 17.2% ★, Space 11.5%, Procedural Generation 11.3%, Roguelite 9.8%
- #34 Starpoint Gemini 2
76% matchMixed69% of 4,112 reviews2014
Dev: Little Green Men Games
Windows
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 5.3 hrs≥1hr: 88%
Captain your own space ship and roam the galaxy in 3D in this tactical space simulator with tons of RPG depth ! Space has never looked so inviting - but images can betray...It has been two years since the end of the second Gemini war, the situation in the wartorn system is further from resolution than ever.
Why similar: Moddable 18.1% ★, Trading 17.3% ★, Space Sim 16.3% ★, Space 14.4%, Tactical RPG 12.5%
- #35 Space Pirates And Zombies 2
75% matchMostly Positive79% of 2,826 reviews2017
Dev: MinMax Games Ltd.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 13.5 hrs≥1hr: 81%
Design and then improve the ultimate mothership. Explore a persistent living galaxy populated by 200 unique captains that can do everything you can do. Survive the zombie infection and then fight them back. Make allies and start your own faction. Build your empire. Also includes Sandbox Mode.
Why similar: Space 26.1%, Open World 12.1%, Sci-fi 10.9%, Sandbox 10.7%, Strategy 10.4%
- #36 Quasimorph
73% matchVery Positive83% of 5,924 reviews2023
Dev: Magnum ScriptumPub: HypeTrain Digital
Windows
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 25.2 hrs≥1hr: 80%
Take on a role of a hardened PMC fighter in a dark turn-based extraction RPG. Engage in unforgiving combat, manage your ship and pile up the bodies of your clones to unravel the dark mystery behind threat to all life.
Why similar: Perma Death 15.8%, Turn-Based Combat 14.2%, Economy 13.6%, Procedural Generation 12.9%, Sci-fi 11%
- #37 VoidExpanse
76% 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: Moddable 22.5% ★, Space 20.7%, Sci-fi 13.7%, Sandbox 13.3%, Open World 11.5%
- #38 Trigon: Space Story
73% matchMixed68% of 1,409 reviews2022
Dev: Sernur.techPub: Gameforge 4D GmbH
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.7 hrsMean: 7.5 hrs≥1hr: 85%
Trigon: Space Story sees you take command of your very own spaceship. Carry out tactical battles, defend your vessel against space pirates, and escape from enemy territory. On your voyages, you’ll face a slew of tricky decisions in your quest to uncover the mystery of the galaxy.
Why similar: Perma Death 23.4%, Procedural Generation 19.3%, Difficult 17.2%, Space 16.4%, Sci-fi 15.8%
- #39 The Long Journey Home
74% 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 23.9%, Simulation 15.8%, Strategy 13.8%, RPG 13.8%, Sci-fi 13.7%
- #40 Space Haven
71% matchVery Positive86% of 9,719 reviews2020
Dev: Bugbyte Ltd.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.3 hrsMean: 20.2 hrs≥1hr: 72%
Embark on a space voyage with your ragtag crew of civilians in search of a new home. Build spaceships tile by tile, create optimal gas conditions, manage the needs and moods of their crew, encounter other space-faring groups, and explore the universe in this spaceship colony simulation.
Why similar: Space Sim 25.4% ★, Management 15%, Sandbox 14%, Sci-fi 12.2%, Space 11.7%
- #41 Avorion
70% 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 22.5% ★, Trading 17.5% ★, Economy 11.2%, Sandbox 11%, Space 9.1%
- #42 Starcom: Unknown Space
68% 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 Sim 37.4% ★, Space 23.3%, Sci-fi 15%, Open World 14.9%, RPG 6.7%
- #43 X Rebirth
74% 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 20.9%, Space Sim 19.6% ★, Sci-fi 15%, Simulation 11.5%, Sandbox 9%
- #44 3030 Deathwar Redux - A Space Odyssey
71% 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 Sim 24.1% ★, Space 20.3%, Sci-fi 15.4%, Sandbox 12.3%, Open World 12.1%
- #45 Battlevoid: Harbinger
72% matchMostly Positive79% of 1,057 reviews2016
Dev: Bugbyte Ltd.
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 1.8 hrsMean: 11.0 hrs≥1hr: 56%
Battlevoid: Harbinger is a hard sci-fi space exploration game blending roguelike, turn-based, star map strategy, and real-time space battles. You are a young commander venturing out into enemy territories, to unknown galaxies, never knowing what you will face as you jump out from hyperspace.
Why similar: Space 29.9%, Strategy 14.7%, Roguelite 13.7%, Simulation 12.4%, Sci-fi 11%
- #46 Frontier Pilot Simulator
69% matchMixed70% of 949 reviews2021
Dev: RAZAR s.r.o.
Windows
Median: 4.2 hrsMean: 9.6 hrs≥1hr: 84%
FPS is a Sci-Fi cargo pilot sim, with an engaging emergent mission-driven storyline, with a real-time economy with free flight and trading, on an alien world to explore. All in customizable upgradeable, well-simulated VTOL craft with real weather, and flight dynamics.
Why similar: Trading 22.2% ★, Space Sim 19.2% ★, Economy 14.3%, Management 10.1%, Space 9.1%
- #47 Celestial Command
71% 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 22.3%, Space Sim 20.4% ★, Sandbox 16.7%, Sci-fi 11.9%, Simulation 11.6%
- #48 Starpoint Gemini
73% matchMostly Negative31% of 150 reviews2012
Dev: Little Green Men Games
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 5.8 hrs≥1hr: 42%
Gemini is a dangerous place with riches waiting to be claimed by the more daring and capable captain.
Why similar: Space Sim 25.3% ★, Space 20.5%, Simulation 20.1%, RPG 18.4%, Sci-fi 15.7%
- #49 Starship Inspector
70% matchMixed61% of 51 reviews2021
Dev: Vedanta Team
Windows
Starship Inspector is a Space Roguelike in which every choice you make matters. Save a galaxy or rescue your crew member? Serve an evil empire or help an ancient tribe? You'll constantly have to make hard decisions and deal with consequences.
Why similar: Space Sim 15.3% ★, Perma Death 14.5%, Roguelite 11.3%, Sci-fi 11.2%, Strategy 10.6%
- #50 Helium Rain
70% 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 42.6% ★, Space 17.4%, Trading 16.2% ★, Simulation 9.4%, Strategy 7.5%
- #51 RimWorld
65% matchOverwhelmingly Positive98% of 236,346 reviews2018
Dev: Ludeon Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 59.1 hrsMean: 259.4 hrs≥1hr: 92%
A sci-fi colony sim driven by an intelligent AI storyteller. Generates stories by simulating psychology, ecology, gunplay, melee combat, climate, biomes, diplomacy, interpersonal relationships, art, medicine, trade, and more.
Why similar: Moddable 25.8% ★, Tactical RPG 14.5%, Management 11.5%, Sandbox 10.9%, Sci-fi 10%
- #52 Astrox Imperium
68% 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 Sim 32.8% ★, Space 23.2%, Sandbox 15.4%, Open World 9.9%, Simulation 9.6%
- #53 Soulash 2
65% matchVery Positive86% of 2,323 reviews2023
Dev: Artur Smiarowski
Windows
Median: 4.4 hrsMean: 25.4 hrs≥1hr: 72%
Soulash 2 is a sandbox RPG roguelike with a procedurally generated open world, simulated history, skill-based progression system, customizable abilities, material-based crafting, building, trading, and the possibility of total mayhem. Will you save your world or destroy it?
Why similar: Moddable 22.8% ★, Procedural Generation 13.6%, Sandbox 12.5%, Economy 12%, Perma Death 10.3%
- #54 Star Dynasties
67% matchMostly Positive73% of 492 reviews2021
Dev: Pawley GamesPub: Iceberg Interactive
Windows
Median: 2.8 hrsMean: 7.7 hrs≥1hr: 73%
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: Procedural Generation 23.4%, Sci-fi 22.1%, Management 20.2%, Space 15.8%, RPG 10.1%
- #55 Evochron Mercenary
69% 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 Sim 26.1% ★, Space 20.2%, Sci-fi 11.9%, Trading 11.5% ★, Sandbox 11%
- #56 Interstellar Rift
67% 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 28.1% ★, Trading 26.2% ★, Sandbox 12.4%, Sci-fi 9.6%, Open World 9.5%
- #57 Space Pirates and Zombies
67% 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 29.7%, Sci-fi 18.5%, Procedural Generation 15.7%, Open World 9.3%, Sandbox 8.4%
- #58 Unending Galaxy
68% matchMixed62% of 124 reviews2016
Dev: Anarkis Gaming
Windows
Median: 3.3 hrsMean: 3.6 hrs≥1hr: 91%
Unending Galaxy is a unique space-sim in which you can fill any role from pirate or trader to the leader of a large galactic empire.
Why similar: Space Sim 20.7% ★, Space 13.8%, Simulation 13.3%, Strategy 12.3%, Sandbox 11.8%
- #59 BATTLETECH
64% matchVery Positive84% of 32,635 reviews2018
Dev: Harebrained SchemesPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 43.6 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Take command of your own mercenary outfit of 'Mechs and the MechWarriors that pilot them, struggling to stay afloat as you find yourself drawn into a brutal interstellar civil war.
Why similar: Sci-fi 33.4%, Strategy 22.3%, Management 15.8%, Space 14.6%, RPG 7.3%