- #1 CIVIREVIVAL
97% matchNo user reviews
Dev: DIMENSION CREATIONS LIMITED
Windows
In this 4X + RPG strategy game, lead humanity’s last ark and rebuild a new home among the mysterious ruins of the stars. Starting from nothing, you will develop technology, build powerful fleets, resist external threats, and shape the rebirth of human civilization.
Why similar: 4X 19.7% ★, Space Sim 15.2%, Grand Strategy 14.1% ★, Wargame 10.5%, RTS 10.4%
- #2 New Stars
96% match5 user reviews60% of 5 reviews2026
Dev: adamjr
Windows · 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 23% ★, Grand Strategy 17.4% ★, Space Sim 13.9%, Real Time Tactics 7.6%, Space 7.3%
- #3 Commanders Fury
96% 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 26.1% ★, Grand Strategy 14.3% ★, RTS 12.3%, Space 9.3%, Tactical 6.6%
- #4 Descending Empires
95% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Parcyval
Windows
A multiplayer space RTS blending in depth mechanics with fast paced skirmish matches. control and manage an empire together with your team in large-scale physic-based online battles, and expand your army mit modded factions
Why similar: 4X 20.3% ★, Grand Strategy 16.6% ★, Space Sim 15.7%, RTS 9.9%, Diplomacy 7.6% ★
- #5 Final Vanguard
94% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Heavy Pepper Inc.
Windows
Rule a living interstellar empire in this real-time 4X grand strategy. Make decisions that shape civilian lives, manage fragile supply lines, lead military conquests, and decide whether your civilization thrives or collapses under its own expansion.
Why similar: 4X 22.9% ★, Grand Strategy 17.1% ★, Space Sim 15.7%, RTS 9.6%, Diplomacy 7.4% ★
- #6 Gemini Wars
94% matchMostly Negative32% of 165 reviews2012
Dev: Camel 101
Windows · Mac
Median: 1.6 hrsMean: 4.0 hrs≥1hr: 94%
Take control of a fleet commander returned from exile, rise through the ranks of the United Space Federation forces and join an epic war across the stars.
Why similar: 4X 21.6% ★, Grand Strategy 16.2% ★, Space Sim 13.8%, Naval Combat 11.6% ★, RTS 8.4%
- #7 Structura
93% match1 user reviews0% of 1 reviews2021
Dev: Binary Station Studio
Windows · Linux
Structura is a rather unique sci-fi real-time strategy set in space. Its a hybrid of rts and fps, with emphasis on combat and survival. Build your economy for war, modify the unit by adding components, explore, expand, and survive the savage waves of enemy attacks.
Why similar: 4X 26% ★, Space Sim 19.1%, Grand Strategy 18.7% ★, RTS 12%, Real Time Tactics 8.2%
- #8 Tachyon Wars
92% 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 30.9% ★, Grand Strategy 20.2% ★, Space 10.7%, Real Time Tactics 8.1%, Futuristic 7.3%
- #9 Galactic Ruler
91% matchMixed49% of 121 reviews2022
Dev: BattleGoat Studios
Windows
Median: 3.4 hrsMean: 7.1 hrs≥1hr: 96%
Galactic Ruler offers real time strategy game play at both planetary level and in space! Lead your faction in diplomacy or conquest across a procedurally generated galactic map where any system might hold hostile enemies or resource riches. Develop advanced technologies to rule the galaxy!
Why similar: 4X 21.1% ★, Grand Strategy 15.7% ★, Space Sim 15.5%, Real Time Tactics 10.6%, Procedural Generation 8%
- #10 Stellar Monarch 2
91% matchVery Positive88% of 128 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 38.2% ★, Grand Strategy 26.4% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 14.8%, Space 8.1%, Sci-fi 6.6%
- #11 Solar Wave
90% 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 27.7% ★, Grand Strategy 22.3% ★, RTS 11.5%, Space 9.9%, Wargame 7.5%
- #12 Near Sol
89% 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 30.7% ★, Grand Strategy 22.9% ★, RTS 12.9%, Real Time Tactics 9.8%, Space 8.5%
- #13 Cosmist
89% 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 36.3% ★, Grand Strategy 24.9% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 12.8%, Space 8.8%, Sci-fi 5.4%
- #14 Lord of Rigel
88% matchMixed68% of 107 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 21.6% ★, Grand Strategy 16.9% ★, Space Sim 14%, Diplomacy 8.9% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 8.5%
- #15 Three Kingdoms: Innovatory
86% matchMixed59% of 975 reviews2024
Dev: 瞬息万变工作室Pub: Moment HK
Windows
This is a classic historical simulation + real-time strategy game, where you will go back to the era of the Three Kingdoms and play as various renowned sovereigns.
Why similar: 4X 26.2% ★, Grand Strategy 19.3% ★, RTS 12.8%, Turn-Based Strategy 11.6%, Real Time Tactics 10.5%
- #16 Horizon
87% 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 27.4% ★, Grand Strategy 22.7% ★, Space 9.3%, Turn-Based Strategy 9.1%, Futuristic 6.6%
- #17 Stellar Reach
85% matchMostly Positive79% of 34 reviews2025
Dev: Stelleas
Windows
Stellar Reach is a 4X hard sci-fi strategy game where you control a faction vying for dominance across a hostile galactic frontier. Guide your empire through conquest, prosperity, or industrial power as you advance through six distinct tech trees and forge your path to victory.
Why similar: 4X 32.4% ★, Grand Strategy 17.2% ★, Space 9.5%, Futuristic 9.4%, RTS 9%
- #18 Interstellar Space: Genesis
86% matchVery Positive84% of 825 reviews2019
Dev: Praxis Games
Windows
Median: 1.3 hrsMean: 11.6 hrs≥1hr: 55%
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 29.8% ★, Grand Strategy 16.8% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 10.9%, Space 9.2%, Sci-fi 6.9%
- #19 Total War: ROME REMASTERED
84% matchMostly Positive77% of 13,374 reviews2021
Dev: Creative AssemblyPub: SEGA
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 7.3 hrsMean: 38.7 hrs≥1hr: 78%
Total War: ROME REMASTERED lets you relive the legacy that defined the award-winning strategy game series. Remastered to 4K with multiple improvements to visuals as well as refinements to gameplay, it’s time to revisit a true classic. Not everyone gets a second chance to conquer the Roman Empire.
Why similar: 4X 22.6% ★, Grand Strategy 21.1% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 10.5%, RTS 10.5%, Diplomacy 8.8% ★
- #20 Galactic Conflict
84% match2 user reviews50% of 2 reviews2026
Dev: Shadowfoundry GamesPub: Sinpros Entertainment and Multimedia
Windows
A real-time sci-fi 4X strategy game where you explore procedurally generated star systems, expand your empire, manage resources, build fleets, and wage war against multiple AI factions in a dynamic and evolving galaxy.
Why similar: 4X 32% ★, Space Sim 21%, RTS 13.5%, Real Time Tactics 8.7%, Strategy 6.7%
- #21 Small Kingdoms Prologue
83% matchMostly Positive75% of 32 reviews2023
Dev: Bad Logic Studios
Windows
Rule a small fantasy kingdom and conquer your rival as you build up your cities and armies on the world map and command your troops on the battlefield. Small Kingdoms is a streamlined grand strategy and real-time strategy game, the Small Kingdoms Prologue is a free introductory campaign
Why similar: 4X 27.2% ★, Grand Strategy 22.1% ★, RTS 12.6%, Real Time Tactics 9.5%, Wargame 7.8%
- #22 TerraMartis4x
82% matchNo user reviews
Dev: LeBroGames
Windows · Mac · Linux
For gamers who love Master of Orion and Homeworld but want something new and different. For gamers with a small time budget. A lightweight fresh take on the space 4x game genre about the war between Terra and Mars.
Why similar: 4X 32.7% ★, RTS 14.5%, Turn-Based Strategy 13.2%, Real Time Tactics 11.1%, Wargame 9.1%
- #23 Conqueror's Stage
82% matchNo user reviews
Dev: LeftLane InteractivePub: Lunexa Solutions
Windows
Carve an empire across a procedurally generated world in this real-time grand strategy game. Lead one of eight factions from primitive tribes to Imperial armies. Found cities, research technology, forge alliances, and conquer every rival to claim the map.
Why similar: 4X 28.9% ★, Grand Strategy 24.9% ★, Real Time Tactics 10.1%, Diplomacy 9.4% ★, Wargame 8.2%
- #24 Ascendance
81% 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 27.3% ★, Grand Strategy 20.6% ★, RTS 11.9%, Space 8.3%, Futuristic 7.3%
- #25 Dust Fleet
81% matchMostly Positive75% of 220 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 28.9% ★, Space Sim 19.5%, Real Time Tactics 11%, Space 10%, Tactical 7.9%
- #26 Unconquered Sun
80% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Pat Traynor
Windows
3D hard sci-fi grand strategy across a procedural galaxy. Build colonies, forge fleets, and command an interstellar empire with information constrained by the speed of light.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 30.3% ★, Space Sim 26.1%, Procedural Generation 9.8%, Sci-fi 8.8%, Space 7%
- #27 Gate Builders
79% 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 28.6% ★, Grand Strategy 21.8% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 12.4%, Space 8.7%, Diplomacy 8% ★
- #28 Galactic Ruler Enlightenment
79% matchMixed63% of 19 reviews2024
Dev: BattleGoat Studios
Windows
Play campaign stories within the Galactic Ruler universe. Invade the galaxy to eliminate those who stand in your way or rally alien races to defend against the invaders. Fight battles at both planet and space across a procedurally generated galaxy. Use new unit control systems to manage your forces.
Why similar: 4X 23.7% ★, Grand Strategy 21.7% ★, Space Sim 10.6%, Space 9.7%, Diplomacy 9.7% ★
- #29 War For Galaxy: New Era
78% matchMixed44% of 39 reviews2023
Dev: UAB Kinelija
Windows · Mac
Become the ruler of the entire Galaxy: colonize planets, extract resources, build defenses and fight in planetary battles!
Why similar: 4X 28.1% ★, Space Sim 16%, Grand Strategy 15.9% ★, RTS 12.2%, Space 8.7%
- #30 EOL: End Of Line
78% 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 35.5% ★, Grand Strategy 25.5% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 12.9%, Futuristic 8.2%, Strategy 7.3%
- #31 Starithm
77% 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 31.6% ★, Grand Strategy 23.5% ★, RTS 12.9%, Wargame 8.7%, Futuristic 7%
- #32 Conquest: Medieval Kingdoms
77% matchMixed57% of 14 reviews2021
Dev: Aserisoft
Windows · Mac
Conquest: Medieval Kingdoms is a turn-based 4X grand strategy game, played on a procedurally generated world. Battles are real-time and tactical. Every world-map and battlefield is entirely unique, so this game will always have something to throw at you.
Why similar: 4X 35.3% ★, Grand Strategy 22.2% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 14%, Wargame 7.6%, Strategy 6.8%
- #33 Distant Worlds 2
76% matchMostly Positive71% of 3,504 reviews2022
Dev: CodeForcePub: Slitherine Ltd.
Windows
Median: 8.6 hrsMean: 42.1 hrs≥1hr: 75%
Distant Worlds 2 is a vast, pausable real-time 4X space strategy game.
Why similar: 4X 39.3% ★, Grand Strategy 26.5% ★, Space 10.7%, Sci-fi 8.1%, Strategy 7%
- #34 Star Trek: Infinite
75% matchMixed42% of 3,483 reviews2023
Dev: Nimble Giant EntertainmentPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.3 hrsMean: 19.1 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 27.9% ★, Grand Strategy 22.2% ★, Space Sim 14.5%, Diplomacy 10.6% ★, RTS 10.3%
- #35 Star Zeal 4x
74% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Akuu Digital Entertainment
Windows
Star Zeal is a space based 4x strategy and rpg hybrid. A mixture between a procedural, open ended RPG and a space civilization builder. Go on an adventure with your character and their faction whilst making friends, enemies and exploring a vast galaxy.
Why similar: 4X 26.8% ★, Grand Strategy 19.7% ★, Space Sim 17.9%, RTS 11.3%, Real Time Tactics 7.8%
- #36 Star Ruler
76% 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 41.6% ★, Grand Strategy 15.3% ★, Space 14.7%, RTS 12.8%, Strategy 8.9%
- #37 Solar War
75% matchPositive85% of 34 reviews2015
Dev: Snipefish Entertainment
Windows · Linux
A turn-based grand strategy game in space, set in the near future: Defend Earth against an alien invasion from the edge of the Solar System and expand your campaign to push them back to their base.
Why similar: 4X 24.1% ★, Grand Strategy 21.4% ★, Space Sim 16.8%, Turn-Based Strategy 11.1%, Space 8.9%
- #38 Keng's Little Universe
74% matchPositive88% of 24 reviews2022
Dev: Keng7
Windows
Civilization was born from a chaotic star system and has been constantly tested in its development, from ancient civilizations to occupying the entire galaxy, which is long and dangerous.
Why similar: Space Sim 24.5%, Grand Strategy 12.5% ★, Space 11.4%, Futuristic 10.4%, RTS 8.2%
- #39 Ephemeris
73% matchNo user reviews
Dev: YrdVaab
Windows
Guide your civilization to epic victory in Ephemeris, the upcoming turn-based space war strategy game. Spread your civilization across the galaxy, unlock new tech, design warships and crush your enemies in cinematic, fully 3D real-time space battles!
Why similar: 4X 28.8% ★, Space Sim 14.9%, RTS 12.8%, Turn-Based Strategy 11.8%, Grand Strategy 8.6% ★
- #40 Star Conqueror 舰队指挥官
73% matchMixed58% of 19 reviews2024
Dev: MirrorAlice Studio
Windows
Engage in real-time battles with customizable space warships. Explore the galaxy, forge alliances, develop powerful ships, and defeat alien invaders.
Why similar: 4X 22.1% ★, Space Sim 19.4%, Space 10.2%, Real Time Tactics 10.2%, Wargame 10%
- #41 Red Pearl Pirates
73% 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: Grand Strategy 26.6% ★, 4X 26.1% ★, Real Time Tactics 10.9%, Space 7.5%, Wargame 7%
- #42 Shattered Spheres
72% matchNo user 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 37% ★, Grand Strategy 22% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 14.5%, Space 10.9%, Tactical 5.3%
- #43 Periphery Online
70% matchMixed70% of 47 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 21.4% ★, Grand Strategy 18.6% ★, RTS 16.4%, Futuristic 11.9%, Space 11.4%
- #44 Sins of a Solar Empire®: Rebellion
72% matchVery Positive93% of 16,284 reviews2012
Dev: Ironclad Games CorporationPub: Stardock Entertainment
Windows
Median: 4.9 hrsMean: 16.6 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Command a space-faring empire in Sins of a Solar Empire: Rebellion, the new stand-alone expansion that combines 4X depth with real-time strategy gameplay.
Why similar: 4X 23.5% ★, Grand Strategy 18.1% ★, Space Sim 17.6%, Diplomacy 11.9% ★, RTS 10.6%
- #45 Novastride
71% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Stradvian Games
Windows · Mac
Control your aerial and ground units using Real-Time-Strategy, OR switch during battle and join your comrades yourself in high-action dogfights and ground battles in Novastride. Dominate enemy civilizations throughout the galaxy and be the great strategist to lead your nation to victory.
Why similar: 4X 22.7% ★, Grand Strategy 18.1% ★, Space Sim 14.1%, Space 10.1%, Real Time Tactics 8.9%
- #46 Sovereign Stars
71% 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 31.9% ★, Grand Strategy 24% ★, Real Time Tactics 11.1%, Wargame 9.2%, Space 5.7%
- #47 Sid Meier's Civilization®: Beyond Earth™
71% matchMixed60% of 23,044 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 28.7% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 19.6%, Grand Strategy 12.3% ★, Space 10.2%, Sci-fi 9.6%
- #48 Astro Protocol
67% matchPositive96% of 46 reviews2026
Dev: Null Vector Studios
Windows · Mac · Linux
Astro Protocol is a high-stakes, turn-based 4X space strategy game distilled into intense one-hour matches. Six factions, randomized maps, tech trees, and anomalies ensure every run is unique. Victories are earned against challenging opponents that play to win.
Why similar: 4X 29.5% ★, Grand Strategy 19.5% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 13.4%, Space 9.5%, Procedural Generation 8.3%
- #49 HARD VOID
68% match6 user reviews100% of 6 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 30.3% ★, Grand Strategy 19.8% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 11.8%, Space 9.7%, Sci-fi 7%
- #50 Beyond Astra
69% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: Nebule Games
Windows
Lead your civilization in a galaxy brimming with life and intrigue. Seamlessly explore and expand across uncharted worlds, from their surfaces to the stars. Forge your destiny in this sci-fi 4X offering a unique blend of grand strategy, planetary city-building, and RTS combat.
Why similar: 4X 26.6% ★, Grand Strategy 19.4% ★, RTS 9.5%, Diplomacy 9.2% ★, Procedural Generation 7.9%
- #51 NationWar:Annals
69% matchMixed68% of 169 reviews2021
Dev: Yiming
Windows
This is a deep focus on the Spring and Autumn period of the Warring States period of the grand strategy and real-time combat fusion sandbox game.
Why similar: 4X 25.6% ★, Grand Strategy 18.7% ★, Diplomacy 12.5% ★, RTS 12%, Real Time Tactics 9.3%
- #52 Space Empires I
70% 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 33% ★, Grand Strategy 21% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 14.3%, Strategy 7.8%, Space 7.1%
- #53 Rule of Iron: Dark Age
68% matchNo user reviews2026
Dev: Eisengeist Studio
Windows
Build your realm in a turn-based campaign. Break theirs in battle. Real-time, 1:1-scale warfare where tactics, not spreadsheets, win clashes between tens of thousands of soldiers.
Why similar: 4X 21.7% ★, Grand Strategy 16.7% ★, Naval Combat 15.1% ★, Diplomacy 10.6% ★, RTS 10.2%
- #54 Relentless Expanse
67% matchVery Positive90% of 107 reviews2025
Dev: Cowmera Games
Windows
Capture and upgrade planets, outsmart your enemies, and conquer the galaxy! Simple yet addicting, you can play alone or outsmart your friends in this 2D top-down space RTS. Completely free, no monetization, just fun!
Why similar: Grand Strategy 23.4% ★, RTS 15.9%, Diplomacy 10.7% ★, Real Time Tactics 10.7%, Space 10.7%
- #55 Galactic Inheritors
70% matchMixed44% of 86 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 44.9% ★, Grand Strategy 20.5% ★, Space 18.8%, Sci-fi 8%, Strategy 7.3%
- #56 Stellaris
68% matchVery Positive86% of 194,059 reviews2016
Dev: Paradox Development StudioPub: Paradox Interactive
Windows · Mac · Linux
Median: 19.4 hrsMean: 143.5 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 31.4% ★, Grand Strategy 26.4% ★, Space 13.7%, Sci-fi 8.2%, Diplomacy 6.9% ★
- #57 Distant Worlds: Universe
69% 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 46.4% ★, Grand Strategy 19.2% ★, Space 14.1%, Sci-fi 7.4%, RTS 6.5%
- #58 Total War: PHARAOH DYNASTIES
66% matchMostly Positive77% of 6,374 reviews2024
Dev: CREATIVE ASSEMBLYPub: SEGA
Windows · Mac
Median: 5.1 hrsMean: 14.8 hrs≥1hr: 86%
Wage total war across the ancient world from the Aegean to Mesopotamia in this free addition to Total War: PHARAOH. Challenge the Bronze Age Collapse by building your own dynasty and leading your faction to victory with new cultures, new units and dramatic new battle mechanics.
Why similar: 4X 34.7% ★, Grand Strategy 26.2% ★, RTS 13.6%, Turn-Based Strategy 11%, Strategy 7%
- #59 NULLSPACE
67% matchNo user reviews
Dev: Kaigan Games
Windows
Experience epic space battles in NULLSPACE, a story driven real-time strategy set in a retrofuturistic universe. Command massive fleets across the battlefield or jump in and take direct control of individual squadrons. Lead your forces to victory in visceral space combat.
Why similar: Grand Strategy 20.2% ★, 4X 19.9% ★, Space Sim 15.7%, RTS 11.7%, Real Time Tactics 9.6%
- #60 Beyond
66% 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 29% ★, Grand Strategy 18.9% ★, Turn-Based Strategy 12.7%, Space 8.9%, Sci-fi 7.2%