Games Like X2: The Threat

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: Space 34.4%, Space Sim 13.6% ★, Trading 11% ★, Simulation 7.3%, Sandbox 7.2%

Why You'll Like It: Widely considered the peak of the classic X series, it offers the most refined economic and combat systems similar to X2.

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: Space 18.2%, Space Sim 18.1% ★, Trading 16.1% ★, Economy 11.9%, Sandbox 7.9%

Why You'll Like It: The modern evolution of the series, providing unparalleled depth in station building and fleet management.

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 29.6%, Space Sim 28.6% ★, Open World 10.1%, Sci-fi 8.2%, Trading 7.7% ★

Why You'll Like It: Provides the definitive modern space-sim experience with a massive, realistic economy and a truly open-ended galaxy.

X3: Reunion continues the epic space saga, blending deep space trading and intense real-time combat. Explore a vast universe, establish your empire, and shape the new frontier. With enhanced graphics and intricate economies, it's a journey of strategy, simulation, and interstellar intrigue.

Why similar: Space 29.8%, Space Sim 16.7% ★, Economy 9.5%, Trading 7.2% ★, Strategy 6.8%

Why You'll Like It: The direct successor to X2, it maintains the core gameplay loop while significantly upgrading the graphics and ship variety.

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 20%, Space Sim 19.3% ★, Trading 12% ★, Economy 11%, Sandbox 8.6%

Why You'll Like It: This game perfectly captures the X2 spirit by allowing players to build their own ships block-by-block while engaging in deep space trading.

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 39.5%, Space Sim 14.4% ★, Simulation 12%, Sci-fi 10.1%, Sandbox 6%

Why You'll Like It: A more streamlined take on the X universe that focuses heavily on immersive trading and cockpit-based exploration.

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 42.3%, Trading 11.8% ★, Space Sim 11.4% ★, Open World 9%, Sci-fi 7.8%

Why You'll Like It: A top-down sandbox that mirrors the trading and fleet management progression of the X series with a focus on exploration.

The Human Race had advanced to the point where we could travel among the stars, we developed giant automated machines to help us colonise other worlds, but there was a fault in their programming and they turned and attacked. Forcing us to lay a trap to protect Earth and exiling the Human race to stay on Earth once again.

Why similar: Space 27%, Space Sim 14.1% ★, Trading 12.5% ★, Simulation 9.9%, Economy 8%

Why You'll Like It: The foundation of the series, essential for understanding the lore and the origins of the X universe's mechanics.

Space adventure, open world RPG, strategy, arcade, quest and more!

Why similar: Space 56.8%, Strategy 12.6%, Open World 8.6%, Sci-fi 8%, Simulation 6.9%

Why You'll Like It: Captures the same quirky, multi-faceted sandbox trading and simulation feel as the X series in a unique, top-down perspective.

Advanced Space Flight, Combat, Trading, and Exploration Simulation. Set in a vast explorable universe, Evochron Legacy offers freeform gameplay with many diverse objectives and paths to choose from.

Why similar: Space Sim 24.1% ★, Space 23.5%, Trading 17% ★, Sandbox 8.6%, Open World 8%

Why You'll Like It: A hardcore space simulation that emphasizes Newtonian physics and free-form trading without scripted limitations.

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 28.8%, Space Sim 21% ★, Open World 9.7%, Sci-fi 8.9%, Sandbox 8.2%

Why You'll Like It: Combines space exploration with fleet management and empire-building elements that appeal to fans of X2's strategic depth.

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 20.5% ★, Space 19.2%, Trading 14.6% ★, Sandbox 8.7%, Open World 8.4%

Why You'll Like It: Blends space combat with real-time strategy and sandbox trading, offering a unique hybrid experience.

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 45.2%, Space Sim 16.1% ★, Open World 10%, Sci-fi 10%, Trading 6.3% ★

Why You'll Like It: Focuses on the trading and combat aspects of space life with a gritty, open-world feel and massive capital ship battles.

Darkstar One offers a fantastic amount of freedom of choice. The story-based missions gradually lead you deeper into the galaxy to new races, new technologies and ever stronger opponents. Explore a vast array of solar systems in search of hidden artifacts of ancient races, essential objects for upgrading your ship--the Darkstar One.

Why similar: Space 41.2%, Space Sim 26.1% ★, Sci-fi 11.7%, Open World 8.2%, Simulation 6.3%

Why You'll Like It: A classic space-sim that emphasizes trading and modular ship customization in a narrative-driven universe.

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: Space 38.4%, Space Sim 17% ★, Trading 14.5% ★, Open World 7.5%, Sci-fi 7.2%

Why You'll Like It: Offers a more RPG-focused take on the space-sim genre with large-scale ship combat and exploration.

A hyperdrive malfunction sends Keith T. Maxwell tumbling through space and time to fight for his life against a mysterious alien armada that is wreaking havoc.

Why similar: Space 37.1%, Space Sim 29.7% ★, Flight 10.8%, Sci-fi 9.1%, Simulation 6.9%

Why You'll Like It: Features a similar blend of arcade-style combat and deep trading loops within a vibrant, narrative-driven galaxy.

You are the captain of a starship venturing through a massive open universe. Customize your crew and take command at the helm of your very own ship as you explore a galaxy torn apart by internal strife, alien threats, and political intrigue.

Why similar: Trading 18.2% ★, Space Sim 18% ★, Space 15.8%, Economy 10.6%, Sci-fi 10.1%

Why You'll Like It: A deep, turn-based space simulation that captures the trading, crew management, and political maneuvering of the genre.

FreeSpace 2, the follow up to the classic Descent: FreeSpace – The Great War is ready to engage you in the second round. Follow the Grand Terran Vasudan Alliance further into the mysteries of the Shivans. Get your flight stick and hit the flight deck. The last time was just a warm up.

Why similar: Space 51.9%, Space Sim 18% ★, Sci-fi 14.7%, Simulation 9.7%, Action 2.6%

Why You'll Like It: The gold standard for space combat simulation, focusing on the tactical intensity and large-scale fleet engagements.

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 41.8%, Space Sim 23.1% ★, Sandbox 9.9%, Simulation 9.5%, Open World 8.3%

Why You'll Like It: An indie space-sim that draws heavy inspiration from the X series' economy and sandbox nature.

Ambitious megacorporations monopolize the conquest of space and the colonization of the solar system. At the very edge of the solar system, the companies make a discovery that will shift the technological advantage and upset the balance. And so a new conflict is born: "The Jupiter Incident."

Why similar: Space 53.8%, Strategy 19.3%, Sci-fi 16.2%, Simulation 9%, Singleplayer 1.7%

Why You'll Like It: A tactical space game that focuses on fleet management and combat strategy, perfect for those who enjoy the capital ship aspects of X2.

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 35.1%, Space Sim 21.1% ★, Simulation 8.9%, Strategy 8.6%, Sci-fi 7.7%

Why You'll Like It: A space-sim that blends RPG elements with large-scale fleet combat and decision-making that affects the galaxy.

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 31.9%, Space Sim 30.5% ★, Simulation 9.5%, Strategy 9.4%, Trading 9.3% ★

Why You'll Like It: A realistic space simulation that focuses on complex logistics, fuel management, and a dynamic economy.

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: Space 47.2%, Open World 12.2%, Sci-fi 11.1%, Sandbox 10.7%, Strategy 8.5%

Why You'll Like It: A top-down space RPG that emphasizes exploration, mining, and sandbox progression in a dangerous galaxy.

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 36.7%, Space Sim 18.5% ★, Simulation 10.8%, Sci-fi 7.7%, Open World 7.2%

Why You'll Like It: A predecessor to Legacy that offers a similar level of simulation and freedom for players who enjoy technical flight mechanics.

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: Space 22.1%, Space Sim 18.1% ★, Trading 16.8% ★, Economy 15.5%, Flight 8.1%

Why You'll Like It: Focuses on the logistics and transportation aspects of space trading, emphasizing the 'trucker in space' feel.

Forge an empire in a universe where population growth is stripping away planetary resources. Colonize unknown planets and trade with other races for their knowledge.

Why similar: Space 51.2%, Strategy 32.7%, Sci-fi 15.3%, Singleplayer 0.9%

Why You'll Like It: A classic 4X title that defines the strategic depth of space exploration and empire building.

Cosmonautica is a fresh take on space trading in a procedurally generated universe, paired with quirky humor for your intergalactic enjoyment.

Why similar: Space 20.4%, Trading 18.3% ★, Space Sim 16% ★, Economy 12%, Sci-fi 7.1%

Why You'll Like It: A lighthearted space-sim that focuses heavily on the trading and crew management aspects of running a starship.

Space Empires V is the latest edition in the Space Empires series. This new chapter completely updates the UI and takes the player into a real-time rendered 3D universe. Watch space battles played out in glorious detail and realistic effects. Expand, Explore, Exploit, and Exterminate in a huge living breathing galaxy.

Why similar: Space 48%, Strategy 33.9%, Sci-fi 16.3%, Singleplayer 1.9%

Why You'll Like It: A 4X strategy game that provides the grand-scale empire management often sought by fans of the X series' economic side.

Large-scale battles have become a vestige of the past, depleting resources of conflicting parties. Settled space, where welfare and order had reigned, has become a cemetery for dead ships which is flooded with pirates and adventurists.

Why similar: Space 64.4%, Strategy 23.3%, Sci-fi 12.3%

Why You'll Like It: A tactical space-sim that focuses on squad management and deep ship customization in a real-time-with-pause environment.

EVERSPACE 2 is a fast-paced single-player spaceship shooter with exploration in space and on planets, tons of loot, RPG elements, mining, and crafting. Experience an exciting sci-fi story set in a vivid, handcrafted open world full of secrets, puzzles, and perils.

Why similar: Space 43%, Open World 15.3%, Flight 12.3%, Sci-fi 11.7%, Simulation 9.2%

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 47%, Strategy 12.9%, Open World 10.1%, Sci-fi 7%, Sandbox 6.8%

X-Tension is the eagerly awaited expansion pack to X: Beyond the Frontier. The expansion is not limited by a linear plot line but makes use of new ways to expand your empire. You can now take part in missions that are offered to you throughout the game.

Why similar: Space 28.5%, Space Sim 20% ★, Simulation 13.3%, Strategy 10.2%, Economy 9.7%

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 26.1%, Strategy 16%, Space Sim 15.3% ★, Simulation 13.9%, Economy 8.6%

Battle for galactic dominance in this real-time 4X strategy game with unrivaled scale! You’ll explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate through military force, diplomacy, trade, culture, influence, and other underhanded tactics.

Why similar: Space 62.2%, Strategy 19.1%, Sci-fi 15.9%, Singleplayer 2.8%

Distant Worlds 2 is a vast, pausable real-time 4X space strategy game.

Why similar: Space 40.9%, Strategy 22.8%, Simulation 18.3%, Sci-fi 16.2%, Singleplayer 1.8%

Star wolves is a 3D space RPG with deep strategy and tactical elements. The game thrusts players into a world of freelance space hunters in the XXI-XXII century A.D. during a time of political crisis for the all-powerful Empire and the three mega-corporations that control all the known worlds.

Why similar: Space 65.8%, Strategy 24.6%, Sci-fi 9.6%

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: Space 51.1%, Strategy 19.3%, Sci-fi 14.1%, Simulation 10%, Sandbox 4%

They're back...only this time the heinous aliens are out to destroy Earth and rule the new frontier. As X-COM commander, it's your sole duty to protect humanity and the prized mining operations in outer space.

Why similar: Space 30.8%, Strategy 23.7%, Space Sim 21.1% ★, Sci-fi 15.1%, Flight 8.2%

Over 20 years of legendary space battles! Explore a massive living universe of danger and opportunity in a challenging and highly rewarding space adventure. Fight, trade, build, and connect with a universe driven and shaped directly by players.

Why similar: Space 20.1%, Space Sim 19% ★, Trading 17.1% ★, Economy 9.9%, Open World 7.9%

Get your dream job with a company called Project Freedom. Become a space pilot and serve for the corporation. You're going to get all the excitement and adventure you've ever wanted. Perhaps even more... 21 missions in the campaign Outstanding 3D graphics and special effects Original storyline with unexpected turns and surprises A...

Why similar: Space 47%, Simulation 31.8%, Sci-fi 12.1%, Action 9%

Embark on a journey to greatness. Get ready for adrenaline-fueled battles and a chance to claim your place in the galaxy. Grab the controls of your ship, gear up for the fight, and unleash your ambition to conquer and build a new empire in the vastness of space.

Why similar: Space Sim 30.9% ★, Space 25.3%, Economy 14.7%, Flight 12.3%, Open World 11.3%

Experience the epic space strategy games that redefined the RTS genre. Control your fleet and build an armada across more than 30 single-player missions. Choose unit types, fleet formations and flight tactics for each strategic situation.

Why similar: Space 61.6%, Strategy 17%, Sci-fi 15.4%, Simulation 4.8%, Singleplayer 0.8%

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 36.5%, Space Sim 12.4% ★, Simulation 12.3%, Strategy 11.3%, Sandbox 9.5%

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: Space 28.6%, Space Sim 26.2% ★, Sandbox 11.6%, Sci-fi 11%, Strategy 9.5%

Dynamic abstract sandbox universe. Changes and evolves as you do.

Why similar: Space 47.7%, Space Sim 14.7% ★, Sandbox 14.4%, Open World 7.8%, Simulation 7.4%

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 32.6%, Space Sim 23.1% ★, Sandbox 13.2%, Open World 10.2%, Sci-fi 8.5%

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 51.6%, Space Sim 19.4% ★, Sci-fi 13.5%, Open World 9.5%, Exploration 3%

The hit mobile game Interstellar Pilot 2 has come to Steam. Join the TEF forces heading to the Gatopean sector to find a new home for mankind. Play how you like in this open world space-sim developed by Pixelfactor.

Why similar: Space Sim 23.8% ★, Space 19.6%, Strategy 13.7%, Simulation 13%, Sandbox 11.6%

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 36.8%, Space Sim 17.5% ★, Simulation 16.3%, Strategy 15.2%, Sci-fi 5.8%

Space Engineers 2 is a sandbox about engineering and colonization where you build ships, stations, and planetary bases in a fully destructible world. Begin the story of Miro and Ivan Sokol, expand humanity’s foothold in the Almagest system, and fight to survive.

Why similar: Space 28.2%, Space Sim 18.9% ★, Sandbox 12.3%, Sci-fi 10.7%, Open World 10%

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: Space 49.5%, Strategy 31.2%, Sci-fi 18.4%, Singleplayer 0.9%

X Rebirth VR Edition is tailored to be an immersive VR experience, based on X Rebirth: Home of Light. TRADE, FIGHT, BUILD, THINK in the X Universe - the biggest sandbox this side of the galaxy.

Why similar: Space Sim 43.3% ★, Space 19%, Simulation 18.5%, Sandbox 7.8%, Sci-fi 6.7%

ENDLESS™ Space 2 is a Strategic Space Opera, featuring the compelling “just one more turn” gameplay, set in the mysterious ENDLESS™ Universe. As the leader of your civilization, will you impose your vision and build the greatest stellar empire?

Why similar: Strategy 78.5%, Space 16.4%, Sci-fi 3.4%, Open World 0.8%, Sandbox 0.5%

Equipped with cutting-edge salvaging tech, carve & slice spaceships to recover valuable materials. Upgrade your gear to take on more lucrative contracts and pay your billion credits debt to LYNX Corp!

Why similar: Space 37.4%, Space Sim 17.3% ★, Sci-fi 13.3%, Sandbox 10.4%, Simulation 10%

Help humanity to spread throughout the cosmos by exploring new worlds, building space factories and setting up trade routes. Research advanced technologies to increase efficiency and unlock new paths of development. Fight off other artificial intelligences in your goal to reach the Final Upgrade!

Why similar: Space 30.8%, Space Sim 20.1% ★, Open World 11.1%, Sandbox 10.3%, Sci-fi 10.1%

A spaceship building and universe-exploration game. Collect resources, expand and grow your fleet, and conquer your personal galaxy. Stellar ambience by Peaks.

Why similar: Space 49.6%, Sandbox 18.4%, Strategy 12%, Open World 7%, Sci-fi 6.4%

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 27.9%, Space Sim 22.6% ★, Open World 10.4%, Sandbox 9.8%, Simulation 9.2%

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: Space 56.9%, Strategy 26.8%, Sci-fi 15.3%, Singleplayer 1%

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 28.9%, Space Sim 26.1% ★, Sandbox 11.9%, Sci-fi 11%, Strategy 9.9%

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 40.7%, Space Sim 14.5% ★, Simulation 11.7%, Sandbox 10.8%, Strategy 9.2%