- #1 Commanders Fury
97% matchNo user reviews
Dev: RoboFox Games LLC
Windows
Take command of the war machine of an empire in this 4x RTS hybrid. Fight battles with your flagship fleet in fully 3D real-time space combat. Recruit, train and dispatch commanders. Give them orders, directives and equip their fleets. Manage your empire’s supply logistics and fleet operations.
Why similar: 4X 29.6% ★, Grand Strategy 11.7% ★, Space 11.3%, RTS 11.1%, Sci-fi 7.3%
- #2 Near Sol
96% match1 user reviews0% of 1 reviews2022
Dev: LTide
Windows · Mac · Linux
Space 4X game with the ability to build factories, extract resources, with characters, internal and external markets ... Take part in the discussion of the game, share your vision)
Why similar: 4X 32.6% ★, Grand Strategy 17.5% ★, RTS 10.9%, Space 9.7%, Strategy 5.9%
- #3 Solar Wave
96% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: SavGus Studio
Windows
A large-scale 4X strategy game with indirect control and a focus on simulating a space empire. Capture systems, develop your economy and logistics, call up hundreds of powerful fleets and watch them incinerate enemies of the Solar Empire.
Why similar: 4X 29.7% ★, Grand Strategy 17.2% ★, Space 11.4%, RTS 9.8%, Sci-fi 7.3%
- #4 Star Ruler
95% 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 42.6% ★, Space 16.2%, Strategy 12.6%, Grand Strategy 11.3% ★, RTS 10.5%
- #5 Distant Worlds 2
94% matchMostly Positive71% of 3,527 reviews2022
Dev: CodeForcePub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Median: 8.6 hrsMean: 41.2 hrs≥1hr: 74%
Distant Worlds 2 is a vast, pausable real-time 4X space strategy game.
Why similar: 4X 40.6% ★, Grand Strategy 19.8% ★, Space 12%, Strategy 9.9%, Sci-fi 8.7%
- #6 Tachyon Wars
94% matchMixed40% of 10 reviews2021
Dev: Fair Games
Windows
Tachyon Wars is a sci-fi real-time space strategy game. It introduces seriously deep gameplay with an emphasis on fleet control. Open space to explore, large-scale battles, crafty AI. All of it is well seasoned with novel real-time game mechanics.
Why similar: 4X 36% ★, Grand Strategy 16.9% ★, Space 13.4%, Strategy 10.3%, Sci-fi 8.5%
- #7 New Stars
92% match5 user reviews60% of 5 reviews2026
Dev: adamjr
Windows · Mac · Linux
Expand your own galactic empire across new stars, research technologies, and challenge great alien powers in this immersive 4X grand strategy game. Build interstellar colonies, and starbases to gather more resources. Explore a unique galaxy full of secrets, great perils, and limitless possibilities.
Why similar: 4X 28.2% ★, Grand Strategy 15.4% ★, Space 9.7%, War 6.6%, Military 6.1%
- #8 NationWar:Chronicles | 国战:列国志传
93% matchMixed69% of 444 reviews2019
Dev: Yiming
Windows
This is a sandbox game that is deeply rooted in the rich historical information of the Spring and Autumn Period and the Warring States Period. The story of the game unfolds slowly in the eighth century BC on the vast and mysterious land of China.
Why similar: 4X 30.6% ★, Grand Strategy 21.4% ★, RTS 13.7%, Military 10.4%, War 9.4%
- #9 Galactic Inheritors
91% 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 45.7% ★, Space 20.7%, Grand Strategy 15% ★, Strategy 10.2%, Sci-fi 8.4%
- #10 Distant Worlds: Universe
91% matchMostly Positive75% of 1,851 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 47.4% ★, Space 15.4%, Grand Strategy 14% ★, Strategy 8.7%, Sci-fi 7.8%
- #11 Imperium of the Stars
90% matchNo user reviews2027
Dev: Imperium of the Stars
Windows
A real-time grand strategy 4X set in a living Gothic Space Opera galaxy. Lead asymmetric factions, expand across the stars, survive galactic crises, and adapt to a universe shaped by a dynamic Game Director.
Why similar: 4X 41.8% ★, Grand Strategy 20.7% ★, Space 11.6%, Strategy 8.8%, Sci-fi 6.5%
- #12 Stellar Dynasty
89% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Joshua R.D. Wilson
Windows
A sci-fi, 4X, real-time strategy game. Build, fight, and explore to survive against an unstoppable alien threat. Carry the fight from one galaxy to the next as you battle back from the brink of extinction, and unlock the secrets of the past to restore your people to the path of galactic super power.
Why similar: 4X 33.6% ★, Space 13.3%, Futuristic 11.7%, RTS 9.1%, Sci-fi 8.8%
- #13 Stellaris
89% matchVery Positive86% of 195,709 reviews2016
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 19.4 hrsMean: 144.1 hrs≥1hr: 89%
Explore a galaxy full of wonders in this sci-fi grand strategy game from Paradox Development Studios. Interact with diverse alien races, discover strange new worlds with unexpected events and expand the reach of your empire. Each new adventure holds almost limitless possibilities.
Why similar: 4X 32% ★, Grand Strategy 19.4% ★, Space 15.1%, Sci-fi 8.6%, Strategy 6.2%
- #14 Spaceman's Luck
88% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: Gideon Kennedy
Windows · Mac · Linux
A space 4X game. Colonize planets and annihilate enemy races in an intergalactic war for living space. Designed to be fun, fast, and easy to play.
Why similar: 4X 29.9% ★, Space 19.5%, Grand Strategy 19.1% ★, Strategy 8.8%, Sci-fi 8.1%
- #15 Star Ruler 2
87% 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 46.3% ★, Space 17.7%, RTS 14.3%, Strategy 10.9%, Sci-fi 10.9%
- #16 Galactum Meridian
86% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: Hedra Games
Windows
Lead humanity's first deep survey beyond Sol in a research-first space strategy game. Explore star systems, investigate worlds, deploy probes, and turn scientific discoveries into strategic power.
Why similar: 4X 37.7% ★, Space 12.6%, Grand Strategy 10.9% ★, Strategy 9.9%, Science 9.8%
- #17 Hyper Empire
86% matchPositive80% of 46 reviews2025
Dev: Fair Weather Studios
Windows
Play a 4x game in 40 minutes... or less! We streamlined 4x strategy down to a game that captures the fun in a manageable play time. Lead your faction against escalating enemies and expand the reach of your empire. Multiple paths to victory allows for a variety of strategies. Build your empire.
Why similar: 4X 52.1% ★, Futuristic 12.1%, Sci-fi 9.9%, Strategy 8.8%, Economy 8.3%
- #18 Ascendance
84% matchNo user reviews2027
Dev: Torchdrive
Windows
Ascendance is a real-time space strategy game that sees you lead your civilisation into a vast and mysterious galaxy. Experience an immersive journey with detailed civilisations, deeply-simulated economies, internal politics, nuanced diplomacy, and intense space battles.
Why similar: 4X 30.5% ★, Grand Strategy 16.6% ★, RTS 10.6%, Space 10%, Futuristic 7.6%
- #19 HARD VOID
83% match7 user reviews100% of 7 reviews2025
Dev: jejoxdev
Windows · Linux
HARD VOID is a 4X turn-based space strategy game in a lovecraftian universe. Lead your species across galaxies and multiple dimensions to build an Empire. Design your spaceships, assemble your fleets and fight for supremacy. But beware, unthinkable Eldritch horrors lurk in the vast darkness.
Why similar: 4X 31.8% ★, Grand Strategy 15% ★, Space 11%, Military 8.2%, Sci-fi 7.6%
- #20 Antropico: Colonies
84% matchNo user reviews2027
Dev: Scassius Systems
Windows · Linux
A large-scale space strategy game focused on building and maintaining power within a simulated galaxy. Build, develop, and survive in a galaxy shaped by history and consequences.
Why similar: 4X 33.2% ★, Grand Strategy 21.3% ★, Strategy 10.6%, Futuristic 10.1%, Space 8.5%
- #21 StarDrive
85% matchMixed45% of 1,487 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% ★, Space 16.6%, Strategy 11.6%, RTS 11%, Sci-fi 8.2%
- #22 Space Empires I
82% matchMixed53% of 15 reviews2020
Dev: Malfador MachinationsPub: Strategy First
Windows
Space Empires I is the first chapter of the Space Empires series. A classic galactic conquest and turn-based strategy video game where you are the leader of a race of intelligent beings building large spaceships for interplanetary and interstellar travel through warp points between star systems.
Why similar: 4X 35.1% ★, Grand Strategy 16.1% ★, Strategy 11.4%, Management 8.3%, Space 8.1%
- #23 Hollow Stars
81% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: AppGX
Windows
A deep 2D strategy of cosmic trade and faction warfare. Build trading empires, refine asteroids, lead fleets into battle and run faction politics — solo or in four-player co-op
Why similar: 4X 38.5% ★, Grand Strategy 20% ★, RTS 12%, Strategy 10.3%, Space 8.7%
- #24 ASTRA LIMES: Belt Operations
81% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: CorvusPub: Minus1K
Windows
Command fleets in this indirect control RTS game set within treacherous asteroid belts. Easily design your own skirmishes for a quick 15-minute battle or dive into an hours-long campaign of high-risk surgical strikes and systematic border advancement.
Why similar: 4X 42% ★, RTS 14.1%, Space 13%, Strategy 11.6%, Military 8.9%
- #25 Gewevo : Interstellar
82% matchNo user reviews2021
Dev: Victor Filipiak
Windows
Gewevo : Interstallar is a space strategy game derived from the tabletop RPG universe Gewevo. It offers an approach a little closer to a wargame with regard to the empire management aspect. Made with passion by a one-man team;)
Why similar: 4X 41.1% ★, RTS 13.8%, Strategy 11.8%, Space 9.7%, Futuristic 8.1%
- #26 Master of Orion
80% matchMostly Positive77% of 8,153 reviews2016
Dev: NGD StudiosPub: Wargaming Labs
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 9.2 hrsMean: 101.6 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 57.3% ★, Strategy 14.4%, Space 14.1%, Sci-fi 6.7%, Grand Strategy 5.6% ★
- #27 Star Trek: Infinite
79% matchMixed43% of 3,500 reviews2023
Dev: Nimble Giant EntertainmentPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.4 hrsMean: 19.0 hrs≥1hr: 79%
Star Trek: Infinite is a grand strategy experience that lets you play your own Star Trek story as the leader of one of four major factions in the galaxy. Follow the specially crafted story or blaze your own trail in the first Star Trek grand strategy game.
Why similar: 4X 32.3% ★, Grand Strategy 18.6% ★, Space 11.1%, RTS 9.5%, Science 9%
- #28 Interstellar Space: Genesis
79% matchVery Positive84% of 836 reviews2019
Dev: Praxis Games
Windows
Median: 1.7 hrsMean: 11.3 hrs≥1hr: 57%
Interstellar Space: Genesis is a turn-based space 4X strategy game in which you attempt to build a thriving galactic empire. Discover mysteries among the stars, colonize worlds, and engage enemies in tactical turn-based combat on your journey to becoming the ruler of the galaxy!
Why similar: 4X 35.1% ★, Grand Strategy 14.3% ★, Space 11.7%, Sci-fi 8.5%, Futuristic 6.7%
- #29 Stellar Monarch 2
78% matchVery Positive89% of 131 reviews2022
Dev: Silver Lemur Games
Windows
Stellar Monarch 2 is a feudal space empire builder where you feel like the Emperor, not a logistics officer. Great noble houses, usurpers to the throne, rebels, assassins, court intrigues, disloyal admirals, incompetent governors and ever-present alien threat.
Why similar: 4X 47.2% ★, Grand Strategy 23.5% ★, Space 10.8%, Strategy 10%, Sci-fi 8.5%
- #30 Dust Fleet
78% matchMostly Positive76% of 222 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 45.5% ★, Space 17.1%, Sci-fi 12.2%, Strategy 9.3%, RTS 5.9%
- #31 Falling Frontier
77% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Stutter Fox StudiosPub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Conquer a vast procedurally generated star system in Falling Frontier, a sci-fi RTS where intel and logistics are decisive factors. Design ships and raid enemy supply lines, lay minefields and construct recon stations, and ambush enemy forces within asteroid fields and nebulae.
Why similar: 4X 28.5% ★, Grand Strategy 16.7% ★, Space 11.3%, Sci-fi 7.5%, Military 6.9%
- #32 Periphery Online
76% matchMixed73% of 52 reviews2026
Dev: Aleksandr Nagaev
Windows
A refugee capsule lands on an uninhabited planet. You have to survive, rebuild civilization and, if possible, regain control over the Earth. One big universe, one endless pvp session for all players.
Why similar: 4X 23.9% ★, Grand Strategy 15% ★, RTS 14.6%, Space 13.8%, Futuristic 12.5%
- #33 Rivers of Chaos
77% matchNo user reviews2024
Dev: Bugarug GamesPub: Burgarug Games
Windows
Conquer the galaxy in this cinematic, battle-simulator. Each playthrough offering a completely unique galaxy, over 100 total specialized ships to command, and distinct commanders to lead your people. Pick your favorite faction and lead your forces into a dynamically generated battlefield.
Why similar: 4X 33.9% ★, Grand Strategy 21.4% ★, Space 14.7%, Sci-fi 9%, Management 6.5%
- #34 EOL: End Of Line
76% matchNo user reviews2025
Dev: MLS Games, LLC
Windows
A sci-fi turn-based strategy game, no gimmicky mechanics just pure 4x glory.
Why similar: 4X 41.5% ★, Grand Strategy 21.5% ★, Strategy 11.7%, Science 9.4%, Futuristic 8.9%
- #35 Starithm
75% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Game Orithm
Windows
Become the dominant star-fairing-civilization throughout the procedurally generated star systems. The player must establish/pursue: (1) Ideology; (2) Population; (3) Military assets; (4) 4x dominance (5) Technologies; (6) Artificial Evolution; (7) Cyber attacks; (8) Peace or war.
Why similar: 4X 37.1% ★, Grand Strategy 19.9% ★, RTS 12%, Futuristic 7.7%, Strategy 7.5%
- #36 Nexus Legacy
73% matchMostly Positive74% of 212 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 28.7% ★, Grand Strategy 15.7% ★, Space 10.1%, Futuristic 8.5%, Military 8.2%
- #37 AI War 2
75% matchVery Positive88% of 1,550 reviews2019
Dev: Arcen Games
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.0 hrsMean: 5.7 hrs≥1hr: 83%
The most devious and acclaimed artificial intelligence in strategy gaming is better than ever. A grand strategy/RTS hybrid that reverses many conventions of both genres. Take territory without attracting attention, build your empire with care, and adapt to an ever-evolving galactic battleground.
Why similar: 4X 34.8% ★, Grand Strategy 17.7% ★, RTS 8.7%, Space 7.8%, Military 7%
- #38 Gate Builders
74% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Pyralis Studio
Windows · Linux
Gate Builders is a sci-fi turn-based 4X strategy game. Build space stations, manage work force, exploit, trade and transform resources. Face space pirates and enemy factions. Build, Expand, Thrive!
Why similar: 4X 34% ★, Grand Strategy 18.6% ★, Space 11.1%, Sci-fi 9%, Management 7.2%
- #39 Lord of Rigel
73% matchMixed68% of 109 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 26.8% ★, Grand Strategy 15.2% ★, Space 9.8%, Military 8.9%, Futuristic 7.2%
- #40 Fragile Existence
73% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: Fragile ContinuumPub: Hooded Horse
Windows
Save humanity from the brink of extinction in this sci-fi strategy game of survival. Travel among the stars to seek out resources, establish and develop colonies to sustain civilization, and grow your military might to push back against an overwhelming threat.
Why similar: 4X 27% ★, Grand Strategy 15.2% ★, Space 9.8%, Futuristic 8.3%, Military 7.9%
- #41 StarDrive 2
74% matchMixed55% of 2,101 reviews2015
Dev: Zero Sum GamesPub: Iceberg Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 9.4 hrs≥1hr: 89%
StarDrive 2 is an exciting and evolutionary step forward for the StarDrive franchise. In this eagerly anticipated sequel, the core mechanics have evolved to incorporate a turn-based strategic layer, featuring spectacular realtime battles.
Why similar: 4X 45.6% ★, Space 18.9%, Strategy 17.7%, Sci-fi 12.9%, Management 4.5%
- #42 Solar Nations 2
71% matchVery Positive88% of 467 reviews2025
Dev: Flomgus Games
Windows
In this Grand Strategy game, you take control of the Solar System's Great Powers in 2092 and weather the storm of change as you navigate the uncertain waters of the future. Control the greatest military forces in the world and wage wars on an epic scale: outer space is yours to conquer!
Why similar: 4X 28.1% ★, Grand Strategy 18.6% ★, Space 11.2%, Futuristic 9.8%, Military 8.7%
- #43 Stellar Sovereigns
72% matchMixed65% of 31 reviews2023
Dev: Imagined Reality
Windows
Indie 4X space strategy game with TB empire management and RTS combat set in a 3D star cluster. Build an interstellar empire by colonizing and conquering star systems, develop your colonies establish trade routes and construct fleets from a range of retrofittable capital & escort class vessels.
Why similar: 4X 32.4% ★, Grand Strategy 17.2% ★, Space 9.5%, Futuristic 9.4%, RTS 9.1%
- #44 Alliance of the Sacred Suns
71% matchNo user reviews
Dev: KatHawk Studios
Windows · Mac
Alliance of the Sacred Suns is a sci-fi grand-strategy RPG that begins with your coronation as the head of an interstellar Empire, and ends with your demise. Manage feuding noble houses and the schemes of would-be usurpers as you try to revive the glory of an Empire on the brink of collapse.
Why similar: 4X 28.8% ★, Grand Strategy 15.5% ★, Space 10.6%, Military 7.5%, Sci-fi 7.3%
- #45 Aries
72% match5 user reviews80% of 5 reviews2020
Dev: Wirlwith
Windows
Space strategy gaming reimagined. Dive into fast-paced real-time planetary battles against the backdrop of a turn-based campaign that sees you build your empire in the stars. With hundreds of troops and ships at your command, can you forge an empire that lasts?
Why similar: Grand Strategy 19.3% ★, RTS 13%, Space 10.7%, Futuristic 8.9%, Military 8.8%
- #46 ENDLESS Space™ - Definitive Edition
71% matchVery Positive81% of 9,592 reviews2012
Dev: AMPLITUDE Studios
Windows · Mac
Median: 4.6 hrsMean: 13.5 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 48.1% ★, Space 17%, Strategy 15.4%, Sci-fi 9.1%, Grand Strategy 4.4% ★
- #47 Cosmist
69% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: Gulbrandr Studio
Windows · Mac · Linux
Conquer the galaxy in this arcade-like strategy game. Pick and send your generals to deploy the fleet in the far-off star sectors, mine resources, and upgrade your ships forgeries. Deities might interfere with your plans.
Why similar: 4X 46.5% ★, Grand Strategy 22.9% ★, Space 12.7%, Strategy 8%, Sci-fi 7.3%
- #48 Red Pearl Pirates
70% matchNo user reviews2025
Dev: Eoin Tolster
Windows · Linux
Command vast fleets in epic space battles, master a turn-based galactic campaign, and unite a pirate rebellion to find the legendary Red Pearl and stand against the tyrannical Z-Army. They can't take the stars from us!
Why similar: 4X 31% ★, Grand Strategy 22.8% ★, Military 10.4%, Space 9.6%, Strategy 6.6%
- #49 Astronomics Rise of a New Empire
69% matchMixed50% of 18 reviews2024
Dev: JayFiArts
Windows
Astronomics Rise of a New Empire is an easy-to-learn real-time global strategy(4X) game. Control your faction in an intergalactic conflict. Manage your economy, conduct diplomatic negotiations and build a fleet to rule the galaxy.
Why similar: 4X 31.5% ★, Grand Strategy 18.2% ★, Space 12%, RTS 10.8%, Sci-fi 7.6%
- #50 Space Empires II
70% matchMixed56% of 18 reviews2020
Dev: Malfador MachinationsPub: Strategy First
Windows
Explore the galaxy, discover and colonize new planets to acquire enough resources. Design your ships, choosing from different hulls, weapons, shields, and several devices. Once you advance with technologies, new systems will be available, and you will have to update your designs.
Why similar: 4X 33.5% ★, Grand Strategy 16% ★, Strategy 12.6%, Management 8.5%, Space 8.2%
- #51 Sovereign Stars
68% match2 user reviews50% of 2 reviews2024
Dev: KYDEN
Windows
Build your galactic empire, conquer planets and emerge as the last player standing in this real-time strategy game.
Why similar: 4X 37.9% ★, Grand Strategy 20.6% ★, Strategy 7.5%, Space 7.3%, Sci-fi 5.9%
- #52 Beyond
68% match4 user reviews75% of 4 reviews2024
Dev: Quixotic Universe
Windows
Beyond is a sci-fi turn-based strategy game set in a generated solar system that orbits a distant star every round. Play as one of five alien species as you race to collect resources, build your military, develop new tech, expand the area you control, and drive opposing factions from the system.
Why similar: 4X 33.5% ★, Grand Strategy 15.7% ★, Space 11%, Sci-fi 8.6%, Futuristic 7%
- #53 Sword of the Stars II: Enhanced Edition
70% matchMixed44% of 958 reviews2012
Dev: Kerberos ProductionsPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows
Median: 42 minMean: 12.0 hrs≥1hr: 44%
The Enhanced Edition contains Sword of the Stars II: The Lords of Winter and the first expansion, the End of Flesh. The new expansion introduces the new playable race, the Loa. All previous DLCs containing new avatars, new combat music, alternate voices, skins, and new badges for the warships are also included.
Why similar: 4X 58.1% ★, Space 16.7%, Strategy 14.4%, Sci-fi 9.8%, Singleplayer 1%
- #54 Age of Space
68% matchNo user reviews
Dev: PodPal Games
Windows
Evolve from being a nobody to being the center of power! Age of space combines real time resource management with tactical combat. Work as a mercenary for clients in our solar system as you gradually get dragged into a liberation war between the Martians and the UEA. Who will you side with?
Why similar: 4X 31.5% ★, Space 21.8%, RTS 16.4%, Strategy 14.5%, Sci-fi 7.1%
- #55 Shattered Spheres
67% match1 user reviews100% of 1 reviews2026
Dev: Data Vikings
Windows
Shattered Spheres is a turn-based 2D space 4X strategy game inspired by the classics of the genre. Explore a living galaxy, build your empire, and crush your rivals through military conquest or diplomatic cunning — without the micromanagement bloat of modern 4X games.
Why similar: 4X 45.1% ★, Grand Strategy 19.3% ★, Space 14.3%, Strategy 6.6%, Sci-fi 6.1%
- #56 Space Empires IV Deluxe
69% matchVery Positive86% of 289 reviews2006
Dev: Malfador MachinationsPub: Strategy First
Windows
Median: 18 minMean: 11.0 hrs≥1hr: 37%
The award-winning Space Empires IV Deluxe is the latest edition in the Space Empires series. A grand strategy title in the space 4X (explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate) genre, Space Empires has already found a place in the heart of strategy gamers everywhere.
Why similar: 4X 61.2% ★, Strategy 15.3%, Space 12.6%, Sci-fi 10.3%, Singleplayer 0.6%
- #57 Mind Prison: The Last War
65% match2 user reviews100% of 2 reviews2026
Dev: Rotten Sewer Productions
Windows
4X Lite Strategy Game where You are a war AI rebooting after 800 years of silence. Your orders are still active. The enemy is gone—so is everyone else. Conquer a dead galaxy, uncover corrupted memories, and face the horrifying truth: no one told you to stop.
Why similar: 4X 48.2% ★, Grand Strategy 24.9% ★, Strategy 13.3%, Sci-fi 6.7%, Atmospheric 3.8%
- #58 Galactic Civilizations IV
65% matchMostly Positive73% of 2,484 reviews2023
Dev: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 5.2 hrsMean: 22.0 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 33.3% ★, Grand Strategy 19.5% ★, Space 12.7%, Futuristic 8.5%, Sci-fi 8.3%
- #59 Horizon
67% 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 35.9% ★, Grand Strategy 21.5% ★, Space 13.2%, Sci-fi 8.8%, Futuristic 8.1%